*JUST* switched to Vista x64: 32 bit programs hang...

[ChrisAttebery]

Is there a way to launch older software in 32 bit mode on Vista 64? I have a couple programs like Fisher Price Arts and Crafts Studio that hang up in Vista x64. If you have younger kids you KNOW that I HAVE to find a solution. :^)

Thanks!


Chris

 

[lxskllr]

You could try compatibility mode and see if that works. Right click the shortcut, choose Properties, then Compatibility. Try different settings in there to see if you can get it running. There's no 16bit support at all in 64bit Windows, but if you got them to install, they're probably 32bit.

 

[bruceb]

See link for latest updates: http://www.fisher-price.com/fp...?st=10&e=dacs-register

And if needed contact them to see if they have a 64 bit version or Vista compatible version.
Last resorts would be Windows 7 Ultimate, which includes a Virtual XP mode (not sure if all the versions have this)

http://service.fisher-price.com

 

[ChrisAttebery]

I'll give the update a shot when I get home tonight. Thanks!

I thought I had seen a post somewhere about being able to start Vista X64 in 32 bit mode. Of course now I can't find it anywhere.

 

[mechBgon]

64-bit Vista can run 32-bit software without you having to take special steps. That shouldn't be a hangup per se. Your software might not be Vista-compatible, period (for example, if it's trying to set up unsigned device drivers, 64-bit Vista won't allow that).

In the event that you disabled UAC, do re-enable it so you've got Registry & file-system virtualization available, and try compatibility mode if necessary.

 

[lxskllr]

If the gfx aren't too demanding you may be able to run the games in a vm. There's a few available. I like MSs VirtualPC for simplicity, and Sun's VirtualBox for features. VmWare's a pita on Vista64. You could install an old version of Windows in the VM, then install the games in that.