The Problem, in 1-2 sentences: After successfully creating a tree for ME2 in Texplorer, TPF tool just hangs at 'Attempting to load tree' and is apparently stuck editing ME-1.

1. Mass Effect 2 Binaries Folder Empty Nester
2. Mass Effect 2 Binaries Folder Empty Folder
3. Windows Binaries Folder
4. Mass Effect 2 Binaries Folder Empty
5. Mass Effect 2 Binaries Folder Empty Files

Frequently Asked Questions from Mass Effect 2 PC Technical Self-Help
CONTENTS

Jul 07, 2019 Sep 6, 2013 - Mass Effect 2 mod Released 2013. If for some reason backup is not restored, move the contents of the 'Backup' folder to the game folder. BINARIES (3.1). No weapon swap if empty when shooting. Mass Effect 2 is frequently set up in the C: Mass Effect 2 directory, but this location can differ a lot depending on the user's option. If your actual binaries folder was empty, you wouldn't be able to run the game since you wouldn't have MassEffect2.exe. You have to check where you installed the game and look in that folder. You will find MassEffect2Launcher.exe right away. So I am trying to start playing ME2 and I wanted to import the ME save files, but when I go to DocumentsBiowareMass Effect 2Binaries the folder is empty. No way to run the configuration utility. I mean, its not a huge deal for me if I don't import the files, I'm just pretty ♥♥♥♥♥♥ with what a cluster♥♥♥♥ this game already is before I've even played it. I can't connect to. So I am trying to start playing ME2 and I wanted to import the ME save files, but when I go to DocumentsBiowareMass Effect 2Binaries the folder is empty. No way to run the configuration utility. I mean, its not a huge deal for me if I don't import the files, I'm just pretty ♥♥♥♥♥♥ with what a cluster♥♥♥♥ this game already is before I've even played it. I can't connect to.

1. Main Game
1.1 Patching
1.1.1 Is there a patch?
1.1.2 Should I install the patch?
1.1.3 I have a single core processor and I'm having problems with ME2, would the patch help?
1.2 Importing
1.2.1 How do I import my Shepard from ME1 PC?
1.2.2 Can I import a Shepard from ME1 XBox?
1.3 Crashes
1.3.1 Mass Effect 2 has never worked on this computer, it always crashes as soon as I try to run it.
1.3.2 Mass Effect 2 used to work fine on this computer, now it crashes as soon as I try to access the main menu.
1.3.3 ME2 crashes whenever I try to access a weapons locker.
1.3.4 In the Tactical HUD, when I try to move powers on to/around the hotkey bar on the upper left, the wrong powers get dragged and/or the game crashes.
1.3.5 A) Movies stutter and sometimes even freeze
* * * The game freezes when I go to the Citadel
1.3.6 ME2 crashes when I try to align the beams on Jarrahe Station, what can I do?
1.3.7 ME2 always crashes at the same exact spot, help!
1.3.8 ME2 crashes randomly, what should I do?
1.4 Other Bugs
1.4.1 I can't interact with stuff! / Spacebar doesn't work! / I can't get the pistol from the weapons locker!
1.4.2 How do I fix the error 'awc.dll not found'?
1.4.3 Shepard just floated up in the air and won't come down!
1.4.4 A) My saved games don't show up when I try to load them or are not saved in the first place
* * * My Achievements are not saved
* * * C) I told the game to log me in automatically but it doesn't do it
1.4.5 The 'objective' map in the corner of the screen keeps popping up and pinging. How do I stop it?
1.4.6 I'm holding “F” But the game won't finish the mission/leave the planet!
1.4.7 The graphics and textures look corrupted/characters look scarred and messed up, what can I do?
1.4.8 A) Load times seem very long
* * * Load times got longer after installing the 1.02 patch
1.5 Re-installation
1.5.1 I want to back up and restore my save games, how do I do that?
1.5.2 My discs are damaged but I still know my CD key. Can I download the game somehow?
1.5.3 I've lost my CD key. Can I recover it?
2. DownLoadable Content & the Cerberus Network
2.1 DLC How-To
2.1.1 I don't know where to download DLC, help?
2.1.2 My PC copy of Mass Effect 2 comes with free DLC, how do I get it?
2.1.3 Can I have detailed instructions on downloading & installing DLC?
2.2 Installation & DRM/Log-in Problems
2.2.1 I get an 'NSIS error' when I run a DLC installer.
2.2.2 I get the error 'Mass Effect 2 does not appear to be installed' when I run a DLC installer
2.2.3 This 'automatic' installation isn't working for me. Can I install DLC manually?
2.2.4 The game tells me one or more DLCs are unauthorized, even though I followed the steps in 2.1.3.
2.2.5 I bought/redeemed DLC on a second account, and now my games/DLC are spread across two accounts. Help!
2.2.6 The game keeps logging me in to the wrong EA Account, and it won't let me log out!
2.2.7 How do I confirm DLCs are installed correctly?
2.2.8 I sold/damaged/otherwise lost my PC copy of Mass Effect 2. Now I'm buying another one. Since my DLCs are linked to my account, not necessarily my game, can I just go ahead and use them with a second copy of the game?
2.2.9 My DLC(s) installed fine, but now that I'm playing, saves I made in DLC areas say “Unknown Area” and won't load.
2.2.10 I can't log in to the Mass Effect 2 servers/Cerberus Network.
2.3 Gameplay Problems
2.3.1 The Hammerhead vehicle's controls aren't working!
2.3.2 I can't mine/pick stuff up in the Hammerhead?
2.4 Known DLC Problems
Overlord
Lair of the Shadow Broker
Arrival
2.5 Buying DLC
2.5.1 I bought Mass Effect 2 for XBox 360 or PS3, and now I have bought/I am thinking about buying a PC copy. Will I be able to use DLC I bought for my console?
2.5.2 Several DLCs are not compatible with Polish, Czech or Hungarian versions of Mass Effect 2. Why? Is there any way I can get these DLC if I have one of those versions?
2.5.3 Where do I buy DLC for Mass Effect 2 PC?
2.5.4 I have a problem related to buying Bioware Points.
Final Question: My problem isn't covered here, so should I post about it in this thread?
About This FAQ

1. Main Game

1.1 Patching
1.1.1 Is there a patch?
Yes, and it can be downloaded here.
1.1.2 Should I install the patch?
Unless you already have the latest game version, it's generally a good idea. For one thing, even if it doesn't ultimately solve your problem, other posters will not look kindly on you if you ask for help without even trying the patch first.
A few posters have had issues with patching – it seems loading times are longer under 1.02 on some machines - but the change log on the patch download page should show you there are far worse problems that can arise than reduced loading performance. If loading times do become an issue, question 1.4.8 contains possible fixes.
If you are uncertain what game version you already have, open the Mass Effect 2 Launcher, press Configure, and select the Game tab. The number given for the first file listed, MassEffect2.exe, is your patch level.
1.1.3 I have a single core processor and I'm having problems with ME2, would the patch help?
Yes. The patch is particularly vital for anyone trying to play on a single core machine. As covered in this thread, there are a number of game-stopping bugs for single cores in the original version 1.00 of ME2 that have since been patched.
1.2 Importing
1.2.1 How do I import my Shepard from ME1 PC?
From ME2's patch notes:

1) Run the Mass Effect 2 configuration utility from the main launcher.
2) Click the 'Save Games' button.
3) Click the 'Copy Mass Effect 1 Save Games' button,and select the appropriate location for your ME1 save game.
(The default location is 'My DocumentsbiowareMass EffectSave'.)
4) This will copy the appropriate save games from your ME1 directory into the proper place in the ME2 directory.
5) Run Mass Effect 2, and from the main menu select 'New Game'.
6) Select 'Import ME1 Character'.
7) Your savegame should now show up in the list.

This can also be done manually if you wish. As mentioned above, ME1 saves are in DocumentsBiowareMass EffectSave. Files starting with Shepard's first name are mid-game saves and are of no use to ME2. The files with names filled with numbers and dashes, following the naming pattern Char_01-LL-#-#-#-DD-MM-YYYY-HH-MM.MassEffectSave, are the end-game saves that can be imported to ME2. Copy any or all of them to DocumentsBiowareMass Effect 2SaveME1 and they should show up for importation in ME2.
1.2.2 Can I import a Shepard from ME1 XBox?
No. Bioware does not support this, nor there is any fan hack that I know of to allow this.
1.3 Crashes
1.3.1 Mass Effect 2 has never worked on this computer, it always crashes as soon as I try to run it.
Confirm that you do indeed meet the Minimum System Requirements. Note that Intel video chips are unsupported. Trying to run ME2 on an Intel GPU (besides those included in the latest Core iX-2XXX processors) is likely, though not universally, going to result in an immediate crash.
If you are uncertain how to find your computer's specifications, see the *Read First* thread which shows how you can get this information in ME2's Configuration utility.
1.3.2 Mass Effect 2 used to work fine on this computer, now it crashes as soon as I try to access the main menu.
This can be caused by a corrupted save or corrupted Player1.prf file.
Saves are located in DocumentsBiowareMass Effect 2Save - try moving this directory somewhere else and running the game. If ME2 no longer crashes, you have confirmed that (a) corrupt save(s) is/are the problem. Figuring out which saves are corrupt can be a difficult task. If any saves are much smaller than the rest – say, 0 or 1 KB, when a normal ME2 save is at least 40 KB – you can safely delete those. However, if the game still crashes, the only way to test saves is to move them back to their original location one at a time, and each time run the game and see if it crashes.
If moving the saves did not fix the problem, keep them outside the ME2 folder and try also moving Player1.prf. Player1.prf is located in DocumentsBiowareMass Effect 2BIOGameProfile - corruption of this file can also be the cause of this crash. Note that if you remove Player1.prf, ME2 will automatically generate a new one with all Achievements and bonus powers locked.
1.3.3 ME2 crashes whenever I try to access a weapons locker.
Some posters have fixed this by disabling or un-installing any third-party video card utilities they had installed. For instance, Asus' SmartDoctor and GamerOSD.
1.3.4 In the Tactical HUD, when I try to move powers on to/around the hotkey bar on the upper left, the wrong powers get dragged and/or the game crashes.
This is a known bug with the hotkey bar. It does seem more likely to happen in or after combat. Therefore, to avoid it, it is recommended you map your squad's power hotkeys as you want them at the very beginning of a mission, right after squad selection, then avoid modifying them until the next time you select your team.
If you want to fix this 'wrong power gets dragged' and the associated crashing without saving and reloading, AnotherRho suggests this workaround:
1. Note which icon IS moving and then stop at once (release the hotkey but keep holding the HUD key).
2. Next, drag the icon which was actually moving and release it anywhere on the screen (that is, don't actually map it to the bar; just move it into empty space).
3. Now you should be able to move the icon of your choice. If the problem persists, repeat or save-reload.
1.3.5 A) Movies stutter and sometimes even freeze
The game freezes when I go to the Citadel
These are known bugs in ME2 v1.00 that occur on single core processors. Make sure you have the latest patch (see section 1.1).
1.3.6 ME2 crashes when I try to align the beams on Jarrahe Station, what can I do?
The 1.02 patch is supposed to fix crashing on Jarrahe. (The patch notes specify Windows 7 64-bit, but I do not know if the fix is truly only effective for that platform; Vista and 7 are very similar.) If you are not already using the latest version of the game, try patching it.
If the patch does not help, see the Bugs section in the Mass Effect Wiki's page for the Abandoned Research Station mission for advice on working around the crash.
1.3.7 ME2 always crashes at the same exact spot, help!
Recurring errors in the same spot often indicate a corrupt installation. Especially when the game is otherwise working fine, and the issues listed above in section 1.3 don't apply or the fixes do not work. Re-installation is the best bet to solve this. When un-installing Mass Effect 2, make sure to choose to keep your settings & saves.
If you bought ME2 on Steam, you can first try verifying the game's files. In Steam, right-click on the game and select 'Properties.' Select the 'Local Files' tab and click the button that says 'Verify integrity of game cache...' Steam will automatically download replacements for any files that do not pass this quick test.
1.3.8 ME2 crashes randomly, what should I do?
There's no one solution. Random crashes are often specific to hardware, so general advice is hard to give. You should probably post a new thread describing your problem. Make sure to follow the directions in Pacifien's *Read First* thread - if you can't provide a good description of your problem and your hardware, don't be surprised if you don't get good advice.
You can also try contacting EA Support for official help.
Note: If your computer automatically reboots when these crashes happen, the first step in troubleshooting is to ensure that Windows is not automatically rebooting for you. There is an important difference between a mere crash (which is generally related to software, e.g. video card drivers) that Windows is covering up, and your computer actually rebooting on its own (often caused by defective hardware).
1.4 Other Bugs
1.4.1 I can't interact with stuff! / Spacebar doesn't work! / I can't get the pistol from the weapons locker!
To make a long technical story short, Mass Effect 2 requires a minimum frame rate in order to make the blue interaction reticule pop up. If frame rate falls below a certain threshold, you won't be able to interact with the game world. (The exact threshold is uncertain, but you definitely want more than 10 frames a second.)
You may be able to work around this issue by lowering the game's resolution and turning off graphical effects; certainly, any video card that meets the Minimum System Requirements for ME2 should be free from this issue at some level of resolution and effects. Additionally, some posters have reported that hitting ESC twice – once to go out into the menu, then again to go back in to the game – will work around this issue for a split second. However, if playing at 800x600 with all graphical effects off still does not fix this issue, upgrading to a more capable video card/Graphics Processing Unit may be your only recourse.
See this post and thread if you want to read further.
1.4.2 How do I fix the error 'awc.dll not found'?
Bioware has posted a collection of possible solutions in this thread. I think you're especially likely to find these tips helpful if this error occurred as soon as you installed the game.
You will also find more fixes listed in this thread. For instance:

Open EACore_App.ini in the Mass Effect 2Binary folder (wherever you installed it) and save it as an empty file. (You may want to back up eacore_app.ini first in case you have reason to restore it.) Again, empty out the file, but don't actually delete it - ME2 will fill in the file anew, but it will not create it.

1.4.3 Shepard just floated up in the air and won't come down!
You aren't the only one to run in to this bug. There is no known fix. You'll probably just have to re-load your latest save. (Whatever you do, do not overwrite an existing save with your floating Shepard! 'Floatiness' is saved; saving and reloading will not get Shepard un-stuck.)
There is a possible work-around, although it may not be worth the trouble, unless your most recent save was some time ago. In some circumstances, Shepard can be un-stuck by binding a 'ghost' or 'noclip' key that allows Shepard to walk through solid objects. You will need to edit your Coalesced.ini file. See this post for a relatively user-friendly Coalesced editor. Instructions for binding a 'ghost' command can be found near the bottom of that post in the 'User Contributions' section. Just be warned that noclip commands can just as easily get you in to trouble as out; use carefully!
1.4.4 A) My saved games don't show up when I try to load them or are not saved in the first place
My Achievements are not saved
C) I told the game to log me in automatically but it doesn't do it
These are all bugs that can occur when your 'My Documents' (Windows XP) or 'Documents' (Windows Vista/7) folder has been moved from its default location. Possible fixes can be found here and here.
1.4.5 The 'objective' map in the corner of the screen keeps popping up and pinging. How do I stop it?
If you have an Athlon 64 x2 processor, try installing the AMD Dual Core Optimizer. (Link is for the US website/installer.)
1.4.6 I'm holding “F” But the game won't finish the mission/leave the planet!
You need to hold whichever key or button you've mapped to “Melee.” If you've changed the Melee key from “F,” the Leave Planet button has changed too, even though the game still says to press F.
Note that there is a genuine bug in 'Old Blood' (Mordin's loyalty mission). The Melee/leave planet may not work if you choose to look around a while longer after the conclusion. AnotherRho reports why it happens and how to avoid it:

the bug only 'triggers' if you 'look around' AND you perform any action which would put a weapon in Shepard's hands). Easy prevention: when you choose to 'look around', do not pull out your weapons (so, e.g., don't TAP 'F/melee', but click and hold).

1.4.7 The graphics look corrupted/characters look scarred and messed up, what can I do?
Newer Nvidia drivers seem to cause texture problems for older Nvidia cards, particularly the Geforce 7000 series. This can be fixed by reverting to one of the drivers ME2 does work correctly with. See e.g. this thread for discussion and example pictures. The 197.xx drivers seem to be one of the compatible driver series.
1.4.8 A) Load times seem very long
Load times got longer after installing the 1.02 patch
1.02 seems to have introduced some delay into loading on some machines. Here's eshrafel's report on symptoms/cause and possible fixes:

(Tested and present in ME2 1.02. Does not affect single core or quad core systems. This cuts my loading times from approx 60 seconds to 5 seconds.)
Dual core systems experience loading times that can be in excess of 1 minute, with also the side effect of the weapon loadout screen being extremely laggy. To workaround this follow these steps:
1. Start Mass Effect 2.
2. Alt-tab out, and start Windows Task Manager. You can do this by right clicking the taskbar and pressing 'Start Task Manager' or use the menu after pressing ctrl+alt+del.
3. In the processes tab, find MassEffect2.exe, right click on it and press Set Affinity...
4. Select a single processor, so only CPU0 or CPU1 is checked. Press ok.
5. Go into Set Affinity... again.
6. Enable both processors once more.
7. Alt-tab back into Mass Effect 2 and the loading times will be fixed.
You will need to do this every time you play ME2. Alternatively you may wish to investigate 3rd party fixes (such as this tool but these are not supported by Bioware/EA etc.)

Note that, even if you do not experience the affinity bug or have solved it, loading screens nevertheless often seem to cycle through the entire animation/video being played before resuming play.
1.5 Re-installation
1.5.1 I want to back up and restore my save games, how do I do that?
Backing up? Good idea!
Mass Effect 2 stores saves and achievements in a different area than where the game is installed to. Look under DocumentsBiowareMass Effect 2 All saves are stored in the Save folder. Note that Achievements and bonus power unlocks are stored separately, in BIOGameProfilePlayer1.prf
If you back up these two folders, you should be able to copy them in to a new Mass Effect 2 installation and pick up right where you left off.
1.5.2 My discs are damaged but I still know my CD key. Can I download the game somehow?
Yes. Install the EA Download Manager and register your Mass Effect 2 key.
1.5.3 I've lost my CD key. Can I recover it?
If you bought ME2 through a download service (e.g. Steam, Impulse, etc.) the key may have been saved on your account with that store. For instance, in Steam, right-click on a game that has a CD key and you will have the option to 'View game CD key.'
If you registered ME2 on this site, the key is stored in EA's database. As long as you do know your EA account & password (it's what you use to log in to this site), log in to EA Support and ask them to look it up for you.

2. DownLoadable Content & the Cerberus Network

2.1 DLC How-To
2.1.1 I don't know where to download DLC, help?
Profile -> Your registered game content
2.1.2 My PC copy of Mass Effect 2 comes with free DLC, how do I get it?
Follow these instructions, and then also follow the instructions for question 2.1.3. If you've already redeemed the code, skip to 2.1.3.
A) You will need a Cerberus DLC code. All new copies of the game should come with a code. (Used copies do not, unless the original purchaser did not use the code and happened to pass it on to you.) Note that this is a second code, in addition to the 'CD key' tied to your copy of Mass Effect 2.
-For new disc copies, the code should be printed on paper somewhere inside the box. (On a separate slip? Or possibly on the manual? Please post and let me know what it was in your copy.)
-Steam: Right-click on ME2 in Steam and select 'view game CD key'? This is how some other games work, but I don't know if this is correct for ME2 specifically. Please post if this is correct or incorrect.
-Impulse: Code(s) should have been e-mailed to you. May also have been listed on the order confirmation page when you bought the game.
-EA Store: Code(s) delivered in e-mail receipt after purchase. (Thanks RetasuNeko.)
-Others (Direct2Drive etc.): No experience myself. If you know how to reliably find your Cerberus code when buying from a different on-line store, please post.
-Didn't get a code?
--If you bought a boxed copy, contact EA Support.
--If you bought a download copy, you should probably contact the store you bought the game from as the next step.
You will need an EA Account.
-You may already have one - for instance, by registering on this website, or if you created one for another EA game. If so, skip this step.
-To make an EA Account, go to http://social.bioware.com/ and click the 'Sign Up' button. Follow the instructions to create an account.
C) Make sure you are logged in to your EA Account on this website, the Bioware Social Network (BSN).
-If you are not logged in, you can do so on the left hand side of the BSN homepage.
-If you are already logged in, going to http://social.bioware.com will take you to http://social.biowar...m/user_home.php.
D) Redeem your Cerberus code.
-This can be done at the redemption page on BSN.
-The Cerberus DLCs should now show up on your Game Content page.
-This step permanently binds the DLC to your EA Account, and so you will never need to repeat it. (This is what is meant when the DLC code is referred to as 'one use.')
*If you are having trouble redeeming a code that was written on paper, make sure you are not misinterpreting a character, e.g. the letter O and the number 0.
*If the site says you have already used the code, and you aren't sure whether this is true, look on this page. You should see several Mass Effect 2 DLCs listed with '(Cerberus Network)' at the end of their names. If the DLCs are not listed on that page, do as the redemption page says and talk to EA Support about it.
Note: You can also make an EA Account via Mass Effect 2; there is an option. You can even redeem your Cerberus Code in-game. However, the code redemption was a once-off that I cannot get to come up again, and so I can't write instructions about it. You still have to come to the BSN in the end to download the DLC, so I think anyone looking for instructions might as well learn to navigate the BSN.
2.1.3 Can I have detailed instructions on downloading & installing DLC?
A) Make sure you are logged in to your EA Account on this website, the Bioware Social Network (BSN).
-If you are not logged in, you can do so on the left hand side of the BSN homepage.
-If you are already logged in, going to http://social.bioware.com will take you to http://social.biowar...m/user_home.php.
Download and install the DLC.
-You can download your ME2 DLC from this page on the BSN.
-You can access this page via the BSN at any time by hovering your mouse on top of the 'Profile' category on the left-hand side of the BSN, then clicking 'Your registered game content.' Remember: Profile -> Your registered game content
-All ME2 DLCs are downloaded as stand-alone install files. You must run each file after downloading it (double-click on the file). The DLC will then install itself.
C) Log in to your EA Account in Mass Effect 2.
-You must authenticate new DLC(s) the first time you run the game after the DLC installation. This is done automatically whenever you log in in-game.
-Start the game. On the main menu, there will be two laptops. The right one is closed and has a 'Connect' button on it. Click 'Connect' and log in to your EA account just like in step 2.
-If the game already logged you in to your EA Account automatically, the right laptop will be open and the Connect button will be gone.
D) Play.
-You can now either begin a new game, or load an ongoing one; DLC should show up in either case.
-If you ever re-install Mass Effect 2, just follow the above steps again.
2.2 Installation & DRM/Log-in Problems
2.2.1 I get an 'NSIS error' when I run a DLC installer.
The first thing the DLC installers do is check themselves to make sure they are intact and uncorrupted. As the error message states, this error means the check was not successful because the installer is damaged.
The first thing to try is to re-download the affected DLC installer. It may be helpful to turn off any download managers you are using, or to download via a different browser.
2.2.2 I get the error 'Mass Effect 2 does not appear to be installed' when I run a DLC installer and...
A) ...I have the Steam version of the game.
First, make sure you have run Mass Effect 2 at least once. The Steam version does not set up entries in the Windows Registry until you do.
If you have moved the Steam folder since installing Mass Effect 2, the problem is likely incorrect registry entries, still pointing to the old location of the Steam folder and its games. You may be able to repair the registry entries by right-clicking on Mass Effect 2 in Steam, clicking 'Properties,' selecting the 'Local Files' tab, and clicking 'Verify Integrity of Game Cache...'
For more possible solutions, see this thread.
You can also look at the next question, 'Can I install DLC manually?'
...I don't have the Steam version of the game.
It's rarer for this to happen with non-Steam versions, and I don't know of a common solution, sorry!
Some solutions in this thread are for/may work for non-Steam versions.
You might want to take a look at the next question, 'Can I install DLC manually?'
2.2.3 This 'automatic' installation isn't working for me. Can I install DLC manually?
It's possible. I need to investigate this more before I can write something on it myself. For now, here are a couple references:
yadffej's posts here lists where to put the DLCs once you have the .rar file that contains it. If, like him, your problem is that the installer quits after extracting the .rar, this could be all you need.
Adam We details how to get the .rar file using a program called Universal Extractor. (I found 7-zip also worked fine for locating and extracting the .rar file. More detailed instructions on how to use 7-zip will have to wait for another day and more investigation on my part.)
2.2.4 The game tells me one or more DLCs are unauthorized, even though I followed the steps in 2.1.3.
Make sure you are using the same account in-game. If the trouble is that you are using two different accounts, see the next question below.
If you've confirmed you are using the same account in-game and here on the Bioware Social Network, and that the BSN lists the unauthorized DLCs when you go here on this website, contact EA Support.
2.2.5 I bought/redeemed DLC on a second account, and now my games/DLC are spread across two accounts. Help!
Only EA Support is able to move DLCs between accounts. If you need to consolidate DLC into one account, you will need to contact EA Support and ask them to do it for you.
Note that you can manually move game registrations between accounts. Hover over 'Profile' on the left and then click 'Register games.' You will have the option to remove registrations; that done, you can then go re-register them on the other account.
2.2.6 The game keeps logging me in to the wrong EA Account, and it won't let me log out!
Go to the Options screen in Mass Effect 2. (From the Main Menu, click 'Extras' and then 'Options.') Click 'Online' and then set 'Auto Login to EA Online' to No. Exit and restart the game.
2.2.7 How do I confirm DLCs are installed correctly?
There is no quick and easy way to check this.
Generally, the easiest way is to simply play. The first place DLC will show up is in the armor locker that is accessible after completing Lazarus Station. You should there have access to any armor you have from DLC - e.g., the Cerberus Assault Armor. Most other DLCs will not be confirmable until a bit later in the game when you have access to Shepard's e-mail. At that point, you generally should receive an e-mail message for each DLC you have installed. If you have one or more games saved that have already reached that point, you could try loading them up.
If you would like to make sure that the installers at least put files in ME2's DLC folder, you can check for subdirectories in the BIOGameDLC folder, found under the folder where you installed ME2. See Bravenu3's list of DLC folder names to identify them.
2.2.8 I sold/damaged/otherwise lost my PC copy of Mass Effect 2. Now I'm buying another one. Since my DLCs are linked to my account, not necessarily my game, can I just go ahead and use them with a second copy of the game?
Yes. The DLCs are linked solely to your EA Account.
2.2.9 My DLC(s) installed fine, but now that I'm playing, saves I made in DLC areas say “Unknown Area” and won't load.
First, make sure you have the latest patch. The patch log states it has a fix for this issue.
Also make sure to note any messages from the game telling you DLC is unauthorized. The game is designed to lock you out of DLC areas if the DLC is/becomes authorized, and you must get it authorized again to fix this.
That said, some people continue to have this problem despite the patch. If you are patched and authorized, a possible workaround is to try starting a new game and then loading your existing game afterwards, as described here.
2.2.10 I can't log in to the Mass Effect 2 servers/Cerberus Network.
When this occurs, you will usually receive an error such as: 'Communication with Mass Effect 2 server was interrupted or has timed out. Try again later.'
If you are using Windows Vista or Windows 7, one thing you can try is to disable Explicit Congestion Notification (ECN). (Thanks Bogsnot1 for the heads up.) Open a Command Prompt (under the Accessories folder in the start menu) and type:
netsh int tcp set global ecncapability=disabled
One of these days I will get around to reading threads like this one and culling what tips I can, but I haven't yet. In the meantime, if you have another fix to contribute that you can give me the summary on, I always appreciate having the possible fixes come to me.
2.3 Gameplay Problems
2.3.1 The Hammerhead vehicle's controls aren't working!
First, note that the on-screen prompts, like all prompts in Mass Effect 2, only ever tell you to use the default key for an action, even if you have already re-mapped the action to a non-default key.
Secondly, note that Mass Effect 2 v1.00 featured a different vehicle control scheme from what ended up being used. From the notes for Mass Effect 2's patch 1.01:

It is recommended that players reset their keyboard mapping to default values to ensure proper vehicle control.

Due to these two things, it is possible that, even if you have not altered Mass Effect 2's key mapping, the vehicle controls may not match the on-screen prompts. To manually reset ME2's key mapping as the patch notes suggest, go to the Options screen, choose Key Bindings, then click Reset to Defaults.
2.3.2 I can't mine/pick stuff up in the Hammerhead?
You have to hold down the 'Mining' key for several seconds, while maintaining the Hammerhead's position over the object, to pick it up.
2.4 Known DLC Problems
Note that none of these problems occur for all people. However, they have been reported by enough posters that I think they can be considered as known problems.
Overlord: Mission crashes upon accessing Prometheus Station if Legion is brought along. Possible workaround: None? For some people it's sporadic, so you can try again if you really want Legion along. More information:This thread.
Lair of the Shadow Broker: After the DLC is installed, ME2 crashes all or some of the time on Illium in the hallway under Liara's office. Possible workaround: Play in Windowed mode.
Arrival: Crashes in Project Control Center? Possible workaround: windowed mode + turn off graphics settings? (TBD, very new release)
2.5 Buying DLC
2.5.1 I bought Mass Effect 2 for XBox 360 or PS3, and now I have bought/I am thinking about buying a PC copy. Will I be able to use DLC I bought for my console?
Mostly, 'no.' A few DLCs - promotional or pre-order items, generally - will automatically transfer between platforms, but most do not. (You can see which PC DLCs, if any, you already have by going to your DLC page. Any that automatically transfer should already show up there as PC DLC.)
This is a qualified no, as some people have obtained free PC copies of some or all of their console DLC by contacting EA Support. See e.g. this thread to see some other posters' experiences. Explain the situation to EA Support and be courteous, and they might be nice and give you some free PC DLC. Just don't rely on it.
2.5.2 Several DLCs are not compatible with Polish, Czech or Hungarian versions of Mass Effect 2. Why? Is there any way I can get these DLC if I have one of those versions?
For a response to 'why?' see this post by Michael Gamble.
There is still a way to play these DLC. (Although they will be in English, not in Polish, Czech or Hungarian.) There are two obstacles you must overcome: getting the website to let you buy the DLC, and installing the DLC. The former is easily done. The latter will require editing the Windows Registry.
You will be prevented from buying these DLC if you have set the Bioware Social Network to display in one of the unsupported languages (Polski, Ceština or Magyar). Switch to a different language in the drop-down box and it should allow you to buy any ME2 DLC. (Thanks to Ileanos07 for passing on the tip.)
If you installed Mass Effect 2 with the Polish, Hungarian or Czech language pack, you will need to trick the installers for the affected DLC in to thinking you have an English version installed. This can be accomplished by editing the Windows registry (choose “Run” on the Windows Start menu and type “regedit”):

Change entry Language in the following registry key from 'pl' (or whatever you have there) to 'en'
32bit: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREBioWareMass Effect 2
64bit: HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREWow6432NodeBioWareMass Effect 2
Then install DLC and after that change Language back to original value.

The affected DLCs (Lair of the Shadow Broker, Alternate Appearance Pack 2, and Arrival) will be entirely in English, but the rest of the game should still be playable in Polish, Czech or Hungarian.
2.5.3 Where do I buy DLC for Mass Effect 2 PC?
Go to the top of this website. Hover your mouse over 'Games,' then 'Mass Effect 2,' then click on 'Official DLC' and it will take you to a listing of DLC packages, including 'Buy now' buttons.
This page also lists ME2 DLC, with longer descriptions.
Note that you cannot buy DLCs directly with money; you must buy Bioware Points. The DLC checkout page will give you the option to buy Points if you do not already have enough on your account. You can also buy Bioware Points at any time by hovering your mouse over 'Profile' on the left-hand side of this website and clicking 'Add Bioware Points.'
2.5.4 I have a problem related to buying Bioware Points.
The ME2 PC Tech forum is not the right place to ask about EA/Bioware's Points purchasing system. Please see the dedicated Points forum.
Final Question
My problem isn't covered here, so should I post about it in this thread?
If you have something you think should be added to this FAQ, sure. Or if one of the answers isn't making sense to you, I'm happy to get feedback on what could be clarified.
However, posting here is not a good way to get help if you're looking for people to help you troubleshoot your problem.
While I hope this thread can serve as the first word on anything it addresses, it is definitely not the final word on any topic in this forum. Search around the forum before posting. I recommend you do a google search including the term 'site:social.bioware.com' - this will let you use google to search just within the Bioware Social Network.
If you do not find an answer here or by searching, and you'd like some assistance with your self-help efforts from the other posters here, I suggest you start a new thread. If you're seeking individual attention, attaching your post to a very general thread like this one is not a good way to be noticed. Starting a new thread will ensure all the details about your individual case are contained in one place, where they won't be confused with anyone else's.
If you want official support from EA/Bioware, remember that this is a user-to-user forum. This is not the right place to contact either the game's developers or the game's official tech support. Official tech support is through EA here.

Mass Effect 2 Binaries Folder Empty Nester

About This FAQ
Many parts of this FAQ were written by myself, and others come from contributions from other posters that you can see below. It is a compilation of communal knowledge that has been bouncing around these forums, the great majority of which I cannot and do not take credit for. I try to give some credit to anyone who specifically helped me compile this, but trying to identify people to credit for the knowledge itself based on 'first post on the entire internet' or other criteria for 'most worthy' would be a difficult and likely futile task. So, I have not specifically attempted to give credit more broadly. That said, I would like to thank the many posters who have given their time toward making this forum a helpful and constructive place, and without whom this FAQ would be a lot less informative.

Edited by Kloreep, 11 October 2011 - 01:06 AM.

What is Texmod?

Texmod is a utility to browse, extract, save and modify textures in Direct3D 9 applications.
In order to share and distribute texture modifications, packages can be created which are compressed to prevent further modification.
This modding method allows you to temporarily replace any texture in your application without the need to use an application specific modding tool or replacing any files in your application's installation. Download Texmod here. For Mass Effect it is the natural counterpart to ME3Explorer, which allows for permanent texture replacement.
The application interface offers three modes:

1. Package mode: If you're looking to run Texmods created by others, this is the correct mode. Add package files to a list and load them into the selected application. Packages on top of the list are loaded first.
2. Logging mode: If you are looking to extract textures, this is the correct mode. Choose between several options and start in logging mode. You can browse through all loaded textures of the application and save the selected one in the output folder.
   You can also use this mode to test textures as you are creating them, without having to build a .tpf to test between edits or restarting your application.
3. Package Build mode: If you are looking to create a Texmod package file, this is the correct mode. Create a package by selecting a definition file (.log) and entering your name and a comment.

Supported Formats

How to launch Mass Effect (1/2/3) with Texmod

Before you can use Texmod, you'll have to load the target application .exe properly ('Target Application' box in the top left corner). Depending on which game you want to launch and which Client you own them on, the technique for loading an exe correctly and launching with Texmod differs.
For the Origin / boxed copy of ME1 and ME2 you can launch 'texmod.exe' and manually browse to the target application exe file ( '..Mass EffectBinariesMassEffect.exe' and '..Mass Effect 2BinariesME2Game.exe') and select them. Simple.
Alternately, you can use a batch-file to automate the renaming process when launching through Origin.
1. Download this .rar containing both 'texmod.bat' and 'Texmod.exe' for ME2.
2. Place 'Texmod.exe' and 'texmod.bat' in the '..Origin GamesMass Effect 2Binaries' folder.
3. Launch 'texmod.bat' and follow the instructions in the prompt in the correct order to go through the entire renaming process. Be sure to select 'ME2Game.exe', NOT 'MassEffect2.exe' in Texmod.
Unlike the renaming process for the Steam version of ME1/ME2, you will need to do this every time you launch.

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For the Steam version of ME1 (and ME2) it's a little more complex the first time around:
1. Place 'Texmod.exe' in the Binaries folder.
2. Rename 'MassEffect.exe' (or 'MassEffect2.exe') to anything you want (example: 'MassEffectOriginal.exe').
3. Rename 'Texmod.exe' to 'MassEffect.exe'.
4. Launch 'Masseffect.exe' (=renamed Texmod) through Steam.
5. Point Texmod to your original 'Masseffect.exe' (now renamed)
This renaming process is only necessary the first time you set up, you can leave it like this and every time you launch ME1 or 2 through Steam (whichever you set up) it will launch Texmod instead and you can start the 'real' .exe through Texmod (example: 'MassEffectOriginal.exe').
For ME3 you'll need to use a batch-file to automate the renaming process required when launching through Origin.
1. Download this .rar containing both texmod.bat and 'Texmod.exe' for ME3.
2. Place 'Texmod.exe' and 'texmod.bat' in the '..Origin GamesMass Effect 3BinariesWin32' folder.
3. Launch 'texmod.bat' and follow the instructions in the prompt in the correct order to go through the entire renaming process. Unlike the renaming process for the Steam version of ME1/ME2, you will need to do this every time you launch.

Tip: It is advised you manually browse to and select your .exe under 'Target Application'. Not doing this can cause Texmod to stop functioning on occasion.

Logging mode explained

Draw control and Texture info: This shows text information and controls in red in the top left corner of your screen.
Show texture in upper left corner: Speaks for itself, texture cycle overlay position is the top left corner expanding to the bottom-right.
Replace Texture: This applies a green overlay to objects a diffuse applies to when cycling over them using + and -. The overlay colour will be different for spec-maps (with and without alpha) and normal maps.
Alternative Method: Unknown.
Translucent: Lowers the opacity of the texture overlay.
Output format: Variety of formats available, I strongly advise using 'DDS' to preserve alphas.
Log with: Key used to extract textures. Defaults to 'Enter'.

Windows Binaries Folder

Output folder: Every successfully extracted texture will be saved to this folder.
DefFile: Location for the definition file you want to use. If you leave this open, Texmod will create a new definition file in the Output folder you selected whenever you extract a texture.
Basic controls for Logging mode in-game:
Numpad + Select next texture

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Numpad - Select previous texture
Enter Default logging key
* Turns filter mode on. With filter mode on, only textures current visible on screen will
be cycled through.
/ Turns filter mode off. With filter mode off, all loaded textures can be cycled through.

Extracting textures

When extracting a texture the naming will always be similar to this:
MASSEFFECT3.EXE_0x487289A3.dds

The first part will reflect the application the texture was extracted from, the second part is the hash that is used to identify that particular texture with (0x487289A3). Texmod will also generate a file called 'Texmod.def' in the same folder, but you don't really need it. I'll explain how to create these from scratch later in this guide.
While it's tempting to change the name of textures completely, I'd advise keeping the hash in there so you have an easy time creating manual definition files for Texmod Packaging and the textures can also be picked up in ME3Explorer TPFTools for matching.

Testing new textures in-game

You don't actually have to build a new .tpf every time you're looking to test a texture. You can also use Texmod logging mode to do this without having to restart your application.
When you launch in logging mode and have

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Draw control and Texture info turned on, you will see the following message at the top of your screen:
As you can see, it tells you the key to reload replacement textures is the comma ( , ), but this has never worked for me. Instead I need to use the period ( . ) key on my NumPad.
When you select a definition file under Logging Mode that includes textures you want to test, Texmod will automatically load these in whenever you launch with Texmod in logging mode.
If you then make changes to the loaded definition file or the textures linked in the definition file, you can reload these changes without leaving the game by hitting the period ( . ) key on your NumPad. The game will lock up momentarily as it reloads and changes become visible.

Creating a Definition File (.log)

To build a Texmod TPF using Package Build Mode or to test textures in Logging Mode, you'll need to create a definition file. Definition files list the hash for the texture you are going to replace and point to the location of the texture that is supposed to replace it. An example:

Hash -Separator-Texture location
0x487289A3|D:ProjectsTexmodOut ME3skinMASSEFFECT3.EXE_0x487289A3.dds
Now the texture location can be inserted relative to the location of the definition file as well, but I prefer using absolute paths to avoid any issues while building. To create one from scratch you can simply create a new text document (.txt) using notepad or wordpad.
Every texture should be defined on a new line in this file, so counting the number of lines counts the number of added Texures Texmod should return when you build your TPF with this definition file selected.
When you save the file, change the extension from .txt to .log. Feel free to give it whatever name is convenient for you.

Package build mode explained

Definition File: Definition file location for the mod you are planning to build.
Creator Name: Your name goes here, it will be visible when loading the tpf under Package Mode.
Comment: Specify what your Texmod does, also visible when loading the tpf under Package Mode.
When you have selected your definition file, filled in your name and added your comments, hit 'Build'. While processing, Texmod will display 'Started...' under Build Status and when completed it will pop up a save dialogue box for the TPF and it will show you under Build Status how many textures it packed into this newly created TPF.
This is a good way to double-check if Texmod packaged all your textures. If it hasn't, be sure to recheck the paths in the definition file.

Tip: If you are unable to view file extensions in Windows, this can be changed in your folder options. While you have your folder selected, press 'Alt+T' followed by 'o' (aka in the menu go through Tools, Folder Options). Open the 'View' tab and under 'Files and Folders' un-check the box next to 'Hide extensions for known file types'.
Tip: If you have trouble opening DDS files, make sure that you have installed the appropriate plugin. While it might seem more convenient to work with other file-types, I personally advise against it as Mass Effect uses DXT1 and DXT5 compression for all textures apart from normal maps. To save as DXT you will need the DDS plugin. For Photoshop, it is located here.

Troubleshooting

• Q: I get an error message with the text 'D'OH'. What should I do?

This is a general error message used for nearly all exceptions. You can check several things here:
- Make sure you manually browse to the .exe for the game you are looking to launch.
- A TPF you are trying to load is corrupt
- A TPF you are trying to load is no longer in the location where Texmod expects it to be. Reload it.
- Your virus scanner has blocked TexMod's access to the target application executable file. Turn your virus scanner off, then launch TexMod. Once you are ingame you can turn your Virusscanner back on. You can also add texmod to your exception list. Some Virus scanners allow you to temporarily turn them off, after which time they turn back on automatically.
- Try running TexMod as an administrator, especially for Windows Vista or Windows 7.

• Q: My anti-virus/anti-malware software claims that Texmod has a trojan in it. Is it safe to use it?

If your anti-virus/anti-malware program uses heuristic detection, a program's ability to modify the way another program works, it might detect TexMod as a trojan. This is a false positive. You are safe to use Texmod as long as you make sure to download it from trusted sources only.

• Q: I can't get Texmod to work (anymore). It won't load tpf's changes and logging mode doesn't show draw information or allow for texture extraction.

- You changed or recently updated Antivirus software and it requires you whitelist Texmod again.
- You have software installed that provides an overlay effect in game. Texmod will not function with another overlay effect active. This includes (but is not limted to) Origin Ingame, steam overlay, voicechat overlays and AMD Gaming Evolved.
- You loaded in the wrong exe. For instance MassEffect2.exe instead of ME2Game.exe
Happy Modding!