How do I edit/append metadata to files in Windows Explorer?

Question

Windows 7 seems to have all these fancy metadata fields that are viewable in Explorer - but no way to edit all of them! I know you can right click -> properties to edit a few things and to scrub metadata, but many of the fields in the Details tab are read-only on most files.

My purpose here is to keep records of files for document control. Right now I am using Excel to monotonously enter all the information I need for a file (project, vendor, customer, revision number, submittal date, etc.), but I thought I could be creative and just attach each of these items directly to files.

I suspect I may not be able to do this in Windows and should probably looking at file cataloging options with better features like reporting. However, I know little about catalogs either so not sure which route to go.

Answer 1

Some files's metedata can be edited in the explorer window, but not all file types for some reason. Those that can be edited have editable fields at teh bottom of the explorer window where it displays the information. You can simply click on the field and edit the data in that field. Unfortunately, not all file types allow for this type of editing, and I am not sure how exactly to deal with those.

Answer 2

To edit you or windows cant be using (writting / reading it). You can do it by booting Windows from another partition or disk, then you can open all these files.