upgrade help

Ok I'm confused to say the least. Upgrading from 1.3.8a with patches. I have used winmerge to check and change files. I have created new data base and zipped up update but don't know where to I put the new zen cart to test? with out messing with the live site?
Can I just go ahead and update? if so again where would I put it???
:blush:
:huh:

Just create a new DB for the new install and a folder such as "v139" or "test" to upload files to and run install
The tutorial should provide the rest
https://www.zen-cart.com/tutorials/index.php?article=98

ok, Made "test file" uploaded the new 1.3.9b files changed configure files to new file name and db, user, password. ran install- update database- finished then "click here to go to store" page is blank same with "click here to go to admin" blank page = https://www.xyz.net/v139/index.php ??? any ideas where I went wrong??
:(

The tutorials are for your use
I searched for "blank page"
https://www.zen-cart.com/tutorials/index.php?article=82

Kobra,

Thank you for your help. After I finish with testing can/should I switch back to the original data base? Can I copy the new files to my "store" and delete the files that are currently there? In maintenance mode. I have looked in the help tutorials but not sure I found the answer. Thanks again

After I finish with testing can/should I switch back to the original data base?
The new DB should be a copy of your original - - you might need to place on maint and do another backup & upgrade to capture activity
Can I copy the new files to my "store" and delete the files that are currently there? In maintenance mode.
What I recommend is that you move all current files with your FTP client into a folder such as "old_files" and then move the new files into their place - - edit the 2 configure.php files to reflect this relocation