by Fly2e » Wed Dec 10, 2008 8:06 am
"When Ken upgraded his computer system, it came with Microsoft's new Windows Vista operating system.
Suddenly, he found that some of the programs that had worked on his old Windows Me-based system, weren't running on the new Vista OS.
Specifically, Combat Flight Simulator 3.
He succinctly puts his problem this way, "I have an original version of Microsoft's Combat Flight Simulator 3 that I played on my old Windows Me. When that system died, I was stuck having to buy the new Vista, which seems is only compatible with an unlimited credit card."
Running legacy programs (those written for earlier operating systems) can be a challenge, but there is a way to get most of them at least up and running.
It seems a number of people are having the same problem as Ken. It is to be noted that Microsoft writes both the game and the operating system, so one might be forgiven in thinking that the two would work together.
One of the first things to do when something doesn't work is post the problem on the web. There will invariably be others who have had the same experience and even some who have solved the problem.
In Ken's case, one user suggested Ken make sure he has installed all the latest updates for the Vista operating system, then try putting the mouse pointer over the game icon and pressing the right mouse button. When the dialogue box opens, instruct the computer to run the game as administrator.
If that doesn't work, right click again and choose properties. Here a new screen will open up with a tab at the top that says, "compatibility." Click that tab and then click the first box to enable the game to play in XP mode. Press OK and the game should play.
Getting legacy programs running in a way they should can be a challenge at times. Sometimes they require certain components that didn't come with the new operating system. Active X comes to mind here.
Other times, the older program doesn't recognize a more modern graphics card, or fails to install entirely.
In both Windows XP and Vista, there is an ability to tell the operating system to operate the program as if it were an XP or even Windows 95 program. The key is the compatibility tab on the program's properties sheet.
On Apple computers, the key is in ensuring you have a folder with Macintosh's OS 9 operating system. Some older programs will not run under the new OS X system. These programs will let you know when they come up with a message saying OS 9 couldn't be found.
Of course, the reverse is true when buying a new program for your computer. Make sure, before you make your purchase, you have carefully checked the system requirements for the program and that your system meets the criteria. There is nothing more frustrating than getting your purchase home, only to find out your memory is lower than what is needed, or your graphic's card is not up to snuff for the new software. "
COMING SOON!