My guess is that the computer you are trying to install on doesn't have BDE installed. This is required for upgrading your database. If you have access to your old computer look for the loclinst folder. In that folder look for a BDE folder. You want to copy the BDE32 bit setup over to the new computer and run it. If you can't find it, let me know your email address and I can send it to you. 

I could be wrong but it looks like you are trying to convert the backup (bku) file.  You need to restore the backup file to the old Timeslips version and then, open Timeslips 2018 and open the database.  It will then prompt you to convert to the new version.  You must make another backup or the conversion will fail.  You also MUST have a working copy of the old program on the computer for the conversion to work.

Just to add a bit more to what Caren and Terry have said to help you understand what is going on.

You are not just upgrading Timeslips, you are also changing the underlying database type.  Your v2009 was a Paradox/BDE database.  Your new v2018 will be a Firebird SQL database.  So the backup needs to be converted from BDE to SQL. Note in the message that it is trying to use BDE to initially read the old v2009.  

Are you installing to a new computer? Is the old v2009 on this machine? Was it on this machine? Does the logged in user (for Windows login) have sufficient rights to modify the BDE settings?

Running the BDE setup that Caren describes should get you over the hump, but just write back if you still have trouble.

Nancy Duhon, Esq.

Duhon Technology Solutions, LLC

Master Certified Consultant for Sage Timeslips

Providing individual Consultations and Third Party Remote Desktop Support - including older/unsupported versions.

404-325-9779

[email protected] 

This error is thoroughly documented in Knowledgebase article 80025

You do not need to install a prior version to both restore and convert the database.  The program is capable of doing both.

Let us know if we can assist further.  My colleagues in support at Sage will assist by calling 800-285-0999 if needed.