In MATLAB exist( x, 'file' ) takes forever

Question

I am using exist(x, \'file\') to check for the existence of a file on my machine. The execution of this command takes FOREVER (over 10 seconds per call!).

My matl

Answer 1

For 372 files Matlab: Elapsed time is 40.207266 seconds. (get a cup of thee) Java: Elapsed time is 0.122165 seconds. (eye blinking)