Code Error 800A0400 - Expected statement

Guy recommends:
VBScript Training Video on CD

---

Troubleshooting Code 800A0400 - Expected statement

Perhaps instead of 'Expected Statement', 'missing character' would be a better error message.  I have noticed with error 800A0400 how often the problem is at the beginning or the end of the line mentioned in the error message.

Introduction to Code 800A0400

Error code 800A0400 is a generic message when you execute a VBScript.  A wild guess, you have missed a command at the beginning of a line.

The Symptoms you get

The script does not execute as you had hoped.  Instead you get a message box like this picture:

The Cause of Error 800A0400

Your VBScript contain is missing a statement.  This is a difficult error to track down.  However, the good news is that I have three examples.  Most likely you have placed a statement, which is not appropriate for the logic of your script.  For example, extra brackets, or missing command. 

Note: the clue 'Source: Microsoft VBScript compilation error'.  My point is that 'compilation error' and not a 'runtime error', means this is a syntax error in your script.

The Solution for Error: Expected statement

The Windows Scripting Host gives us two useful clues, firstly, look on Line: 10, do count any remark or empty lines.  Secondly, the Char: number 1, is useful in tracing the error.  In this case there is something wrong with the Select statement.

The line number, as is so often the case, is crucial to solving this error.  The problem is that the whole line is gibberish to the VBScript engine.  So take another look at each word, punctuation and see if you can spot a simple error.

Example 1 of Error code: 800A0400

Missing underscore at the end of the line 7:

Solution

Missing underscore at the end of the line:

WScript.Echo "WSH Version: " & WScript.Version & " " & _

Example 2 of 800A0400

Error on Line 4.

Talk about stupid errors, there is no ' apostrophe to Rem out that line of dashes.

Actual

------------------------

Should be:

 '   -----------------------------

Example 3 of 800A0400  (Code available)

I just plain missed command, for example no 'Set'.

Problem

"Error" ObjNetwork = CreateObject("Wscript.Network")

Correction

Set ObjNetwork = CreateObject("Wscript.Network")

Try a different solution, download SolarWinds ipMonitor

Here is my thinking, ipMonitor will give you valuable data about your network and servers.  This extra information just may unlock the solution to your error code.  One more thing, sometimes when troubleshooting you go around in circles; therefore if you try a different, but related approach, you may just crack the problem.  Free Download of SolarWinds ipMonitor

Guy Thomas recommends Computer Training Software. 

Their topics and material are ideal for getting you started with VBScript.  The videos are easy to follow and you can control the pace.  Try their free demo material and then see if you want to buy the full package. See more about VB Script Training CD.

Do you need extra help?

For interpreting the WSH messages check Diagnose 800 errors.

For general advice try my 7 Troubleshooting techniques

Give something back?

Would you like to help others?  If you have a good example of this error, then please email me, I will publish it with a credit to you:

 *