> os.open("C:\blah.txt", 'w') > I don't see what an integer has to do with anything? You've had that explained in depth. But there's another problem. Using the '\' character in filenames is not a good thing. Better to use a '/' slash which works just as well but is safer. "C:/blah.txt" If you really must use a '\' use two: "C:\\blah.txt" It makes for a saner life! Alan g.