Ai Dreams Forum

Software & Hardware => General Software Talk => Topic started by: Freddy on January 08, 2009, 10:55:35 am

Title: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on January 08, 2009, 10:55:35 am
Looks like a beta will be available tomorrow, just wondering if anyone was thinking of give it a go ?  It seems like they will cap the number of beta versions so you'd best be quick.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/technology/7817190.stm

Weird; it only seems like five minutes ago since Vista was new.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Maviarab on January 08, 2009, 03:36:55 pm
Your right it does seem like 5 mins ago...time flies etc :)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Art on January 09, 2009, 04:07:54 am
Yes, somewhere hidden deep in the Mr. Art Archives is a copy of Windows 1.0
I also had an 8" floppy disk from our old Burrough's computer at work. It had
a whopping 20 meg hard drive that took 3 hours to back up on 10" reel to reel
tapes!! Ah yes...the good old days!

Like one frog said to the other, "Time's fun when you're having flies!"  ::)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Dante on January 09, 2009, 07:10:35 pm
Tried it, it's fun. Fun to laugh at, I mean.

They've speeded up the desktop a bit, so everything feels faster. Still far more bugs then Vista at the mo, but thats because it's in beta.

Yet again, Microsoft has metaphorically taken a look at your boiler, tightened a bolt, left and charged you the same amount it would cost to buy a brand new one.

Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on January 27, 2009, 03:30:31 pm
I've been toying over the idea of installing the Windows 7 Beta and thought others here may be in the same frame of mind, so I am posting this for your information, well as a starter :

http://blogs.chron.com/techblog/archives/2009/01/5_things_you_need_to_know_about_windows_7.html

Anyone thinking of giving it a go ?
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Maviarab on January 27, 2009, 05:54:49 pm
Dante, sorry but from a self confessed MS hater, its hard to take your comments with any seriousness.

Freddy, I am considering it actually yeah, as I bet most Vista games will be fine on '7' so may be easier to go for  that and bypass Vista altogether.

After a new drive so may install it on there and see what its like and then make a judgment on it.

Thanks for the link.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Art on January 28, 2009, 10:37:15 am
Sorry, but this is one upgrade (?) than I'm NOT going to jump on as it took me a lot of work to remove Vista and start over with XP the last time (when Vista was offered). As fas as I'm concerned, I'm going to wait for a while because me and my XP seem to be getting along rather nicely at the moment!
 ;)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Maviarab on January 28, 2009, 12:52:41 pm
 
Quote
me and my XP seem to be getting along rather nicely at the moment!
Have to agree with that one Art, love my current slimmed down version of XP....been trouble free for longer than I can remember...still tempted to try 7 on a new drive though, if hate it will just plug this drive back in again :)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on January 28, 2009, 01:27:26 pm
Yeah I read elsewhere that you had problems with Vista Art.  Sounds like a lot of people prefer XP and when I was looking at getting a new PC I found a lot of pre-built ones came with the option to downgrade to XP.  I'm not sure why but I have a bit more time for Windows 7, from what I have read so far people think it is an improvement on Vista - still much research to do though.  I was thinking of getting a new hard-drive to install it too.

Also read (at V-Humans I think) that it is possible to run XP on a Virtual Machine and that it runs faster that way, so that might be an option in the future.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on January 28, 2009, 02:47:30 pm
This could be an option :

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/products/winfamily/virtualpc/overview.mspx
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on February 13, 2009, 01:05:11 pm
For anyone interested :

"Windows 7 moving toward 2009 release"

http://news.cnet.com/8301-13860_3-10162609-56.html
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Maviarab on February 13, 2009, 01:29:25 pm
I am very interested...but really can't justify £200 or so for the new release. Will probably do what I( always do, Ill wait till windows (?) is announced and in beta then upgrade to 7 hehe :)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on February 13, 2009, 01:35:55 pm
Well I'm undecided too.  This gave me a wry smile though - MicroSoft trying to sell businesses Vista rather than have them wait for 7.  Let's screw them twice hey ?

http://news.cnet.com/8301-13860_3-10161620-56.html
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on September 26, 2009, 06:24:07 pm
Some of you guys probably know I was lucky to get Windows 7 before its release date, well I've had about a month at playing with it now and have found some nice little tweaks.

So if anyone is interested check these out.

For me Win7 had 2 main things that I really didn't like.

The nag screens and a lot of hard drive activity in the background.

You can turn off the nag screens:

Open control panel, click on Action center, click on Change user account control settings, now put the slider all the way down. (No more nags)

The hard disk activity was the indexing of the drives, personally I hardly ever use the search function in windows to find files so for me its better just to turn off indexing on all hard drives.

Open my Computer, right click a drive, go to properties, now remove the tick from allow files on this drive to have contents indexed.

I thought that after a while windows would finish the indexing but it would seem not, in the end I got so fed up with it that I had to turn it off.

DreamScene has been removed from Win7, it was in Vista, if you don't know what it is, it allowed the user to put an HD video on the desktop as wallpaper, well there is a way to put it in 7, I have, and some of the slow moving ones are very flash, ok its eye candy but nice all the same.

Download it from here:
http://www.sevenforums.com/customization/5636-windows-dream-scene-win-7-a.html (http://www.sevenforums.com/customization/5636-windows-dream-scene-win-7-a.html)

Then do the fix from here:
http://www.sevenforums.com/customization/23793-help-dreamscene.html (http://www.sevenforums.com/customization/23793-help-dreamscene.html)

You can download free DreamScenes from here:
http://www.dreamscene.org/gallery.php (http://www.dreamscene.org/gallery.php)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on September 26, 2009, 06:56:51 pm
Thanks Datahopa, I know that will come in useful  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: lrh9 on September 27, 2009, 07:12:30 am
I recently built a new PC, and depended on the free Windows 7 Beta to be my OS so that I could free up some of the budget for hardware. My hardware supported 64-bit, so I downloaded and burned to disk the Windows 7 64-bit Beta. Install goes great. Fastest ever install I've ever done, maybe 30 to 45 minutes? Hour tops. Get to desktop. Looks great. I'm browsing the web, running the Windows Experience tests, installing firewall and anti-virus apps, etc. Then I install some of my DX9 games and they all crash to desktop. So the standard troubleshooting at this point is to upgrade DirectX and your drivers. So I download the latest version of DirectX and install it and I download the Windows 7 RC drivers for my motherboard and install them. Some games are better, but not much. I'd play for a minute and have a crash to desktop. So I finally decided to revert back to XP and I obtained a copy of XP professional. Games are much better. What was the problem? Either the games had compatibility issues with a 64-bit OS, or they had compatibility issues with Windows 7. Come to find out after I installed XP that they had released the XP virtual PC for Windows 7. I would've tried it before switching back. Now it isn't worth my time and effort to upgrade again.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Maviarab on September 27, 2009, 10:49:15 am
Virtual PC does not support playing games LRH (tried it myself). You need more software again to get it to work, and then its a very bad experience.

Virtual PC is really only for working older apps that are not fully suported under a different OS.

As for install time, my current copies of XP Pro and Vista both install fully from a  clean drive in less than an hour...

I would imagine at the moment, that the majority of games/gfx cards (depending on age) are not fully compatible with windows 7 yet, just one of those things I guess, have to give it time. Main reason I only upgraded to Vista earlier this year, despite them having beta testing etc etc, it will be a good 18 month to my mind before it works correctly without major conflicts.

Another reason I still have a XP drive on my PC, I have many software apps and games that Vista just does not like (or vice versa).
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: lrh9 on September 27, 2009, 01:53:19 pm
Makes me look forward to the days when we can get A.I. to develop software for any hardware we have.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on October 14, 2009, 03:32:40 pm
Games I have working in Windows 7 64 bit, with the latest sound and graphics card drivers installed.
I wouldn't use the graphics card drivers built into Win7 for games they are just so you can see the screen and go and download the latest drivers.
 
Crysis
Fallout 3
Flatout
GTA San Andreas
Juiced
Juiced 2
Oblivion
Quake 3
Quake 4
Serious Sam 2
Sherlock Holmes Nemeses
Sherlock Holmes Jack the Ripper
The Witcher
 
Steam also runs perfectly in W7
 
Games I have problems with
Grand Prix 4 (crashes to desktop)
 
Basically every game I have seems to run at least as good in Win7 as they do in XP except GP4, but GP4 is a very old Direct X 8 game that also has problems in XP.
 
This really surprised me, I thought it was going to be like the early days of Vista when around half the games wouldn't run and the other half had much lower frame rates, but no.
 
Still running a dual boot of XP and 7 just incase.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on October 14, 2009, 03:41:07 pm
That pleases me no end.  I'm not too worried by older games I have as once I am done with a game I rarely go back to it - but there's the odd couple I would like to still play.

I'll be going for 64 bit too, as they have now released the drivers for my motherboard.

I think I might go for dual boot just in case.  I forget - which one do you install first ?  Is it XP then W7 or W7 then XP ?  I have two drives I can use.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on October 14, 2009, 04:00:21 pm
It pleases me too Freddy, i hardly ever go into XP now, but its been a good friend to me for a long time and I don't have the heart to get rid of it yet.

Yes the 64 bit is really the only way to go, forward.

My XP install is about a year old I think, anyway you can keep your XP you have now and just install win7 to the other drive, choose custom install and simply select the drive you want to install to, then Win7 will make the dual boot for you.

You can also undo the dual boot at any time if you want. leaving just XP or Win7.


EDIT:
To dual boot XP 32 and Win7 64 you have to run the install booting from the DVD, because you cant run the 64 bit Win7 install from XP 32 bit.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on October 15, 2009, 02:55:13 pm
Hmm, trouble for me is the drive that XP is on now is the one I want to use for 7 - simply because it is quieter than the other one.  I know it's not that loud really, but it makes the familiar scratchy noise when it is working - so I only use it for storage, which was mainly why I bought it anyway.

I really need to do a clean install of XP I think, just to get that fresh feeling and remove all the junk that I am sure has built up.  If 7 is good for me then I may not even have to.  I guess I can install 7 then install XP on the storage drive.

I know what you mean about XP, it's really the best OS Micro$oft have ever made, which is why I never bothered with Vista.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Maviarab on October 15, 2009, 04:07:53 pm
Now I keep saying this, but never had a problem with Vista. I actually prefer it to XP now (still have an xp drive though for graphics work).

Spent a week getting into its nooks and crannies, removed all the user Cp crap that vista has, and it runs like a drea,. Miles faster, great for games...very happy with it.

I think the biggets problem with Vista was, that they changed too much stuff at the same time and it alienated folk, once you get to know it, its a great OS imo.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Art on October 15, 2009, 07:17:54 pm
Mav,

I tried to do the upgrade with my XP box to Vista and found so many problems with existing software and some hardware that I removed it and reverted to XP.

My wife's XP computer eventually died and we replaced it with a new Vista based machine and I must say that everything that she wants to do with it, is pretty much a snap! The only thing she had to get rid of was her old scanner (and it was rather old). Other than that, she loves it and I am...still plugging away on my old XP...

A lot of people are touting the new Windows 7 and I too may look at it after some of the initial dust settles.

Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on October 16, 2009, 12:04:16 pm
Freddy:

To dual boot from scratch put in XP first then Win 7,
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on October 16, 2009, 02:06:12 pm
Ok dokey - I will, thanks.

On Mav's and Art's comments about Vista, I think the main thing here is that you are happy with what you have got and that it works for you - that's the real test of a system.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Art on October 18, 2009, 07:21:39 pm
Freddy,
True enough to a point but as we all (or most of us) know, a real salesman will "Sell the sizzle...not the steak!"

Microsoft often touts an OS as the latest, greatest thing since pockets on a shirt only to have it NOT be embraced with open arms by the masses. Such was the case with Windows Me...undoubtedly one of the worst OS train wrecks to ever happen. They couldn't wait for it to go away (neither could those who owned it).

While many flavors of Open Source linux are available, not all are met with equal levels of enthusiasm although the product itself falls into your aforementioned category of people being happy with the way it performs for them. I happen to be really pleased with Ubuntu, Open Office and several other "wares". Are they mainstream? No because a lot of businesses do not use them but have settled for the more commonplace and accepted software, so we reluctantly use them.

While choices are often good, standards are many and unique! Strange that!

G'day!
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: lrh9 on October 18, 2009, 10:36:21 pm
I think one good thing is that software and data are becoming portable. The days when software will only work on one operating system that only works on a certain set of hardware and files are proprietary formats that can only be modified by one application will soon be gone. I credit these positive changes to open source communities and new software design practices, allowing the creation of open standards that can be easily interfaced with a multitude of technologies.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: one on October 19, 2009, 03:16:38 am
Accountability,
I would rather have a Watch from a reputable place of purchase than from a street with no name and inside a trench coat from a...NM.

(Swiss of course).
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Art on October 19, 2009, 11:35:24 pm
One,

But with the Open Source watches you could easily (and cheaply I might add) change a damaged main spring or counter balance wheel or digital assembly if so required. It would most likely continue to keep fairly accurate time for months or days to come.

Naw...for the purists, this definitely doesn't sound like something they'd want to have. You?

 ;)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: one on October 20, 2009, 02:17:34 am
Nope, Not me. :o
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on October 20, 2009, 10:55:36 am
Well I kinda like windows.  My Windows 7 turned up today - now I have to back everything up on my system and store a lot of things so I can upgrade.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on October 20, 2009, 11:31:46 am
I heard that PC world had shipped W7 a couple of days early.

Congratulations and good luck with the up-grade Freddy.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on October 20, 2009, 12:13:48 pm
Thanks  ;D  Yes, earlier than expected or I might have been ready !
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on October 20, 2009, 09:06:08 pm
Freddy:

To dual boot from scratch put in XP first then Win 7,

Datahopa,

Is it possible to remove XP at a later date if needs be ?  Just wondering...It's a big drive it is going on so I don't really care if it stays on there.

It looks like my old printer will be compatible from what I have read.  And Canon are releasing drivers later this week apparently so that's my scanner sorted.

Can't run Virtual XP because my CPU doesn't support Intel Virtualisation Technology... but that would be possible in the new year when I was thinking of going quad core.  Is that feature any good anyway ?  Probably not as effective as an actual XP installation I guess ?

Well I am going to sleep on it I think... spent most of the day backing up everything...will take the plunge tomorrow !

Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Art on October 21, 2009, 10:30:41 am
What's the hurry? This doesn't seem like the cautious Freddy of days gone by who used to wait for
things to settle before jumping into the fray.

Will the real Freddy please stand up (Phrase from old American TV show called, "What's My Line?).

I'm going to wait, like I should have done with so many of those "Jumped on the bandwagon" things
I've done in life.
 ;D
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on October 21, 2009, 12:20:12 pm
The simple answer to your question Freddy is yes

You can undo a dual boot leaving either XP or Win 7

As for drivers, a lot of the time the vista drivers will work fine in Win7, Im using Vista 64 bit drivers for my printer.


Art, we used to have "What's My Line?" here in the UK too

In Freddys favor I know he ordered Win 7 a while ago and has been waiting quite a long time already, Im sure he really wants to get Win 7 going ASAP to see what all the hype is about.

I know I did   ;)

EDIT:
I just remembered something about drivers and Win 7:

If you see a warning come up when you try to install a driver something like

This drive has known compatibility issues with WIN 7, then DONT install it.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on October 21, 2009, 01:43:10 pm
Quote
What's the hurry? This doesn't seem like the cautious Freddy of days gone by who used to wait for
things to settle before jumping into the fray.

Well no it's not really like me I guess - I do tend to wait normally.  But with Windows 7 I did try out the Beta version a little and was impressed, so I haven't really rushed into it.  The other main reason I bothered so soon is that the pre-order price was so low, that it seemed a good opportunity to take.  I saved around £50 ($100 or so) doing this.

I was originally in no rush to install it, but Datahopa is right - I ordered it weeks ago and now I am too curious to know what it is like.  It also comes at a time when I really want to flush the junk out of my PC with a fresh install, so all the auspices seem to lead this way.

Thanks for the extra info Datahopa, I will see if there is a Vista driver for my printer which would give me the full features.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on October 21, 2009, 09:52:15 pm
Well I am now on 64 bit Windows 7  ;D

That went amazingly smoothly - I didn't have to worry about drivers much as all of them were already supplied.  The only trouble I have had was getting it to recognise my USB wireless adapter.

Beautiful to look at and it seems a lot faster - especially with things like images.  So many goodies to try out too.  They also have the prettiest DVD's I have seen hehe..

Tomorrow I'll see how it handles my software.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Bragi on October 22, 2009, 07:41:45 am
Quote
It also comes at a time when I really want to flush the junk out of my PC with a fresh install
That time has come to me to, long ago. I sent it away, and now it punished me by making everything crawl to a halt ;)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on October 22, 2009, 11:28:00 am
Well it was beginning to crawl a little, but I try out no end of new programs all the time, so my PC tends to fill up from time to time.  Fresh installs are great, the only bad thing is hoping you managed to backup everything that you think you will want to keep.

Another question for Art or Datahopa - you two are more clued up about hardware than me - I was just wondering if in the future I were to take this CPU out of my PC and drop in a new one; would I need to reinstall windows ?  I remember a long time ago I dropped a hardrive from one PC with Windows on it into a totally different machine and it managed to figure everything out.

I know there is/was some point system in XP/Vista - presumably I would be able to reinstal windows if I needed and get MS to acknowledge the new system ?

Thanks.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on October 22, 2009, 01:20:03 pm
That’s good news Freddy, I’m glad it went in without too much trouble, as a matter of interest what make is your USB wireless adapter?

It sounds like you have found Win7 fast to use, like me, I don’t normally believe the hype, MS have always said this new OS is faster but in my experience its never been faster (vista) (ME) etc but it seems they have got it right with Win7.

As for changing the CPU I don’t think you will have a problem, as long as your motherboard supports the new one. It might be worth up-dating the BIOS before you put the new one in.

If you had to change the motherboard that would be a different story, the chances are that at least you would have to re activate Windows or you might have to re-install from scratch because there is a chance that the PC might not even boot.

Have you turned off the nag screens yet Freddy?  One of the first things I did.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on October 22, 2009, 04:16:49 pm
My USB adapter is this one :

http://www.lm-technologies.com/home/wi-fi/LM001/wi-fi-usb-adapter-g

Some how between last night and this morning the driver seemed to become corrupted.  It might have something to do with me trying the install from disc and then when that didn't work - getting windows search the CD for itself.  I think I had some conflict there and possibly more than one instance if that makes sense.  So I removed it, un-installed and deleted the drivers and any mention of it.

Then I plugged it in and let Windows do it itself by searching the CD for whatever was suitable.  It was one of those things that made me leap for joy when it worked.  Getting 6MB speed here now, though a lot depends on the site of course..

And yes it really is fast - it boots quicker than XP did too.  It's fast to get around too - it does seem well organised and I managed to figure out fairly technical things pretty quickly.

Google Chrome is even faster now too.  I found I like IE8, but there's so much clutter there.

Thanks for the tip on the CPU - yes the one I have my eye on is compatible - it's a quad core that has the same wattage as this dual core.  Trouble is it costs about £160 from scan... but I can wait for that to come down, not in any hurry.

Nag screens ?  You mean all the 'DO you want this program to change your PC ?' things ?  I haven't found them annoying yet, but I haven't installed a lot.  But yes, probably one to turn off !
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Maviarab on October 22, 2009, 07:59:54 pm
The idiot proof message Freddy lol. Started with Vista (UAC), fiorst thing I disabled lol.

There should be some option in my opinion when installing windows that asks...

Are you an idiot?

Yes - install idiot proof you can't sue us windows..

No - install normal windows where people like us can actually do what we want, when we want without being asked for verification for the 100th time...
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: one on October 22, 2009, 11:09:38 pm
Freddie,
I haven't had much time to keep updated on what is happening here but, Quads and some other intel processors are 'Pinless' and all I have seen in the Duals/Duos have the pins on the chip instead of in the MB/ just another thing to look for with new hardware..
Bios will know a new chip is there and probably want voltage settings..
IF successful the OS will run fine.. (Datahopa, Will the task manager have a conflict with displaying the activity and number of cores??)

Good luck,
J.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on October 22, 2009, 11:44:59 pm
LOL Mav, I was thinking the same type of thing.

But who would click the "I am an idiot button!" ?

Actually, I might, just to see what happens,  :-\

Freddy it sounds like you have it sorted already and got over that little problem with ease.

I do like the gadgets, am using calendar, all cpu meter, BBC Radio, weather bug and moon phase.

IE8 in windows 7 has given me faith in IE again, its been solid for a few weeks now.


One
On some of the new motherboards you can turn off some of the cores in the cpu, changing the amount available to Windows and the task manager handles that no problem so it should be fine.

I would double check on the motherboards manufacturers site that the CPU was compatible with the motherboard.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: lrh9 on October 23, 2009, 12:03:40 am
Maybe someone here would be interested in this sweepstakes. I've all ready entered.

http://promotions.newegg.com/Sweepstakes/7for7/index.html?cm_sp=Homepage_LB-_-Sweepstakes7for7-_-http%3a%2f%2fpromotions.newegg.com%2fSweepstakes%2f7for7%2f620x130.jpg

Prizes include a NVIDIA graphics card, a copy of Windows 7, an AMD Phenom II X4 965 Black Edition 3.4GHz Quad Core Processor (What I want. I have wet dreams about this processor), a laptop, and a tote bag valued at 150 USD.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: one on October 23, 2009, 06:31:43 am
Datahopa,
I didn't evaluate the functionality of the task manager when I had the chance.

I don't have good thoughts for Freddie being able to find a processor as to go from a (AMD?) Dual to a quad on the same board. I don't recall a compatible socket.... I run the 775. (Intel/virtual built into board) Don't remember stepping or Architect

Good to hear news that the manager will adapt without a different install I will have to experiment when I get a chance........

Regards,
J.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: one on October 23, 2009, 06:40:44 am
Maybe someone here would be interested in this sweepstakes. I've all ready entered.

http://promotions.newegg.com/Sweepstakes/7for7/index.html?cm_sp=Homepage_LB-_-Sweepstakes7for7-_-http%3a%2f%2fpromotions.newegg.com%2fSweepstakes%2f7for7%2f620x130.jpg

Prizes include a NVIDIA graphics card, a copy of Windows 7, an AMD Phenom II X4 965 Black Edition 3.4GHz Quad Core Processor (What I want. I have wet dreams about this processor), a laptop, and a tote bag valued at 150 USD.

lrh 9,
Dude not another sweepstakes.........
So the AMD has 4 cores and each core runs approx 3.4 GHz using the Intel rating?
I should probably surf more, but it makes me want things I can't buy right now :D
I have a AMD 5000+ Dual and nothing against AMD, It has been pretty solid. My problem is with drives not being fast enough SATA  compliant (Striped as well). :-[

Regards,
J.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: one on October 23, 2009, 09:22:39 am
GREAT!,
I can't sleep and I need it.
Some ppl say "Don't take your work home with you" ummm,, what if you do a lot remotely? @#%%*&*&@@

I think the underlying cause is this forum. I have enjoyed 'catching up' with ppl, and it is quite possible I have 'friends' here. AND the I.T. / computer talk / learning from ppl like Datahopa, ect...

Maviarab, when can I call you 'Mav'?? or use the words 'Mate' w/o ppl coming to strange conclusions?  ;D lol.

Much to do.........

Warm, Kind thoughts to all,
J.

P.S.,
Maviarab, I can't find the post you made about the 'subtitles' in the movie you mentioned,, IMO their is a lot of wisdom and rare situations that that explains, thanx for sharing good insight.

 ;D ;) ::) 8) ;D
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on October 23, 2009, 01:14:27 pm
One said :

Quote
I don't have good thoughts for Freddie being able to find a processor as to go from a (AMD?) Dual to a quad on the same board.

I'm not sure where you got the idea I am using AMD - on this PC it is Intel 775 socket.  This board does support quad core... so I should be okay...thank you both for the advice on upgrading my CPU :)  It won't be till the new year when I try it, but it sounds like it will be okay.

As for IE8, yes it looked fine to me too, I might make use of it - I tend to like Chrome because it is so minimal and does just about everything I need in a browser.

I have the clock gadget on screen, I like the CPU one too - I want to take a look at some of the other ones available too.  Nice feature to be built in that.  But yes my problems have been minor.  Last night I found my Pen Tablet works fine with the new drivers and Photo Shop elements is working too.

IRH, thanks for the sweepstake info - I still may enter.  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: lrh9 on October 23, 2009, 02:19:06 pm
Well, at least if you win the processor you can send it to me. ;)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Maviarab on October 23, 2009, 05:11:25 pm
One,

Ypu can call me Mav with pleasure lol...and what subtitles are you on about?
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on October 23, 2009, 09:38:56 pm
Just a note - the version of W7 that I got (E) came with IE8 which I thought they were not allowed to do...hmmm
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: one on October 23, 2009, 09:53:51 pm
One,

Ypu can call me Mav with pleasure lol...and what subtitles are you on about?

AAWW Sh*% maybe it wasn't you, I go through reading at a breakneck speed and sometimes things intermingle.
I thought you posted about life being ugly untill.....


Sorry if I am wrong, MAV ;D
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Maviarab on October 24, 2009, 12:53:56 am
Different topic One :)

Was in gamers Obit thread.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on October 24, 2009, 01:13:26 pm

Just a note - the version of W7 that I got (E) came with IE8 which I thought they were not allowed to do...hmmm

My windows 7 came with IE8 32 and 64bit versions, I assume MS were given permission to ship the disk with IE8 after all.

Adobe Flash Player is not supported for playback in a 64-bit browser, making IE8 64bit unusable IMO
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on October 24, 2009, 03:05:28 pm
Yes I guess they must have been..

Yep agreed - no Flash seems ridiculous.

Does anyone know how to get the PC out of sleep mode ?  I put it to sleep and I thought pressing a key would do it, or moving the mouse - but no - I had to turn the PC off.  I don't use it normally but might make more use of it.  It went into some kind of hibernation mode the other day and everything shut down totally, but pressing a key then was sufficient.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on October 24, 2009, 04:23:10 pm
I noticed on the Windows 7 forum that a few people seem to have that or similar problems with sleep mode, its looking like it could be something to do with the BIOS not being read right by windows, sometimes a BIOS up date has mended it, but not always.

Some say that pressing the power button on the PC returns it, but again not all.

In power options in control panel there are a few settings, one of them lets you choose how to turn your PC into sleep mode, you might want to have a look in there Freddy.

I personally don't use it.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on October 24, 2009, 05:03:43 pm
Thanks :)

Well then I think I will forget about sleep mode for now.  The hibernation works well though and is probably a good way for me to save money some days lol
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on January 05, 2010, 06:47:16 pm
Well I ran into my first proper problem.  GTA4 does not work properly.  I exceed the specifications and have the latest graphics driver (Sapphire HD 3850 512mb gddr3) which came out only last month.

Basically it installed okay, but when I try to drive anywhere it keeps freezing, so it's like ....dirve...freeze for 10 seconds....drive....freeze for 15 seconds....drive....freeze... an so on.  Oh what fun.  I am just glad I didn't buy this when it was full price.

Taking the graphics settings right down to low and it still freezes...

I sent them an email, maybe there is something I can do.  I haven't tried the compatibility wizard yet as I don't know what to pick for compatibility.  I guess I could try XP SP3 or Vista SP1, which are part of the specs for it.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Carl2 on January 08, 2010, 12:08:53 am
Freddy,
  I just put Windows 7 into this computer a few weeks to a month ago.  I was supplied a disk by the manufacturer to upgrade from Vista to Windows 7 so all of the drivers are taken care of for me.  I've always liked ATI but have been using NVIDIA video cards since ATI was bought by AMD.
  Sorry I can't offer any advice but the best of luck on the problem. 
Carl 2
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on January 08, 2010, 12:16:16 pm
Freddy you are not alone, I got GTA4 a few days ago too, it was £9.99 @ amazon and im getting not freezing up but jerking when driving fast but for me the game is playable, in fact I have done 12% of it so far, have to say the game looks great at 1920 x 1080 fully maxed out.

Have been looking into making it run smoother and found that lots of people cant play the game on any version of windows because the game requires an extremely fast PC with lots of RAM, so ignore the minimum recommended specs for the game they are wrong, this is what you must have.

A Quad core, yes GTA 4 actually uses all 4 cores, my CPU usage hits 90% when playing and according to other forums I’ve been to a Quad @ 3 ghz is minimum. I knew I overclocked my 2.6 ghz quad to 3.2 for a reason.  :D, do a google for “GTA4 quad core” you will see what I mean.

And at least 4 gig of RAM, 2 is simply not enough and 6 or 8 is better, I have bitten the bullet and ordered another 4 gig for myself, got it for £78 @ dabs.com they were doing a special on Kingston HyperX 1066 mhz stuff. Hopefully it will arrive today, still waiting for the door bell  :P

Things you can do to help speed up the game are:

Defrag the drive that has the game on, very important for this game as it loads textures in while driving and the faster it loads them in the smoother it will play.

Set draw distance and distance quality to minimum.

DO not exceed the recommended memory usage in the game, you should see a memory usage warning at the bottom of the graphics set up page, keep it in the green.

I hope you can get the game working Freddy it’s a lot of fun with loads of things to do and see there.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on January 08, 2010, 12:38:27 pm
Great minds think alike - I got it from Amazon too.

Thanks for the advice, I will try it again with lower settings.  I am annoyed they have got the specs totally wrong though.  I still haven't had a reply from Rockstar and I sent the email on Monday...so I'm not impressed there either.

I have 2G of RAM...I'm waiting for the ones I need to come down - they're at about £80 at the moment too, but were selling for half that before Christmas so I will definitely wait.  Generally I am trying to raise some cash to upgrade parts of my PC, so this game might have to gather dust until then.

I think I will try using the compatibility wizard just to see if that makes any difference.  I had thought about putting it on my XP drive, but it needs Service Pack 3 and the last time I installed that it ruined my sound set-up - something to do with the Realtek Drivers not being right.... I could not get the sound back at all.

Have no fear, I still have my PS2 and can play GTA Vice City all I like, it's still one of my favourite games.  I wish some PC games were as reliable as they are on consoles, but I have read that even on the PS3 GTA4 freezes for some people. 
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on January 08, 2010, 01:17:07 pm
Freddy,
  I just put Windows 7 into this computer a few weeks to a month ago.  I was supplied a disk by the manufacturer to upgrade from Vista to Windows 7 so all of the drivers are taken care of for me.  I've always liked ATI but have been using NVIDIA video cards since ATI was bought by AMD.
  Sorry I can't offer any advice but the best of luck on the problem. 
Carl 2

I found Windows 7 worked really well out of the box - I didn't even have to install half the drivers I would normally need to.  I've used NVIDIA and ATI in the past.  I always like ATI and will probably be sticking to them - I have my eye on this :

http://www.sapphiretech.com/presentation/product/?psn=0001&pid=259
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on January 08, 2010, 02:04:25 pm
Yay, Amazon have it at a bargain price  ;)

I would be very surprised if Rockstar reply to you, Like I said before I have been looking into this and lots of people are in your boat with you and they don’t seem to reply to anyone, or if they do it will be the normal spill, “make sure you have the latest drivers”

Your graphics card should be able to play the game, see here
 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8QtzJc8v_M (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8QtzJc8v_M)

Notice the guy playing hit something that hadn’t drawn in yet, that’s the 512mb cards, really need a 1 gig for GTA4

But your RAM and CPU are really not up to the job Freddy.

If you play it in XP you will get more RAM available to the game but it will not fully sort out your problem.

Realtek sound? Oh no don’t use Realtek onboard sound its pants and uses the CPU as part of the decoding process, I know its more money but I would get a proper sound card too, personally I use the soundblaster XFI extreme music it has full hardware playback and doesn’t use the CPU. All these little things add up to making a gaming PC.

List of bits Freddy needs to get:

Q9400 CPU
2 gig of RAM to add to the 2 gig already
Soundcard
ATI HD 4890 1 gig (would be nice)

Donations should be sent to Freddy and will be received with thanks.

Oh one last thing:

This is fun, goto your home in GTA4 and watch the TV, there are a bunch of real world comedians who have made some TV programs, they are funny.

Just noticed you posted again Freddy, may I say this:

Don’t get the HD5750 it has 128 bit memory bus, that cripples the card, for what it worth get a card that has 256 bit bus.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on January 08, 2010, 04:54:34 pm
I may ring Rockstar just to have a good moan at them  :D

Yes it seems my PC is just not good enough - that's pretty appalling behaviour by Rockstar then.  That list of my needs is good - I actually want to swap out this 2 gig of ram to faster memory, so it will be a total replacement rather than adding to it.  I am after the 1066 mhz memory too, I think this is currently 800 mhz or something like that.

I didn't know/realise that about the sound card - although I probably should have realised.  I guess I could pick up a cheap sound card, I only really need decent stereo sound so I will look into it.

CPU - yes that would be nice.

That graphics card I linked to above is a  HD 4890 based one, the specs says :

1024MB /256bit GDDR5 memory interface

So that would seem okay then.

I doubt I could even get as far as my home in GTA4, it really is that bad - it's terrible when you actually start moving about.  Utterly unplayable...

And yes - donations gratefully received  :D

And the good news today is I got a free upgrade from my ISP, now I am getting 15 Meg broadband !
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on January 08, 2010, 05:46:32 pm
Yes ring them up and complain for everyone that can’t play the game that should be able to.

If you’re going to get a Quad then the 1066mhz RAM is the one to go for IMO.

Oh I thought you had linked to an HD5750, sorry my mistake, yes the HD4890 is a great card very happy with my one.

Always been an ATI fan boy, I love ATI tray tools, really nice little program for over and underclocking the card and the onscreen display that can be seen when playing games is very handy for keeping an eye on temps, voltages, CPU and GPU load, FPS and more.

Buy ATI and save the planet, sounds crazy but if you ignore the speeds between Nvidia and ATI cards and check out the power consumption you will see what I mean.

ATI cards take up to 100 watts less to do the same job, check this vid out.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZvvK9hHA9g (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZZvvK9hHA9g)

Congrats on the new fast BB  8)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: sammypetter on January 09, 2010, 10:25:20 am
Windows 7 is best.Because it has better features then the other.And Windows 7 is a vast improvement from Vista as it takes up much less ram and has other optimizations such as fast booting times. I recommend Windows 7, and if you really don't want vista and don't want to wait for the final version of Windows 7, you can download a copy of the Release Candidate from the Microsoft website for free and use it up till June of 2010. I am working with the Release Candidate right now and so far I have absolutely no complaints, considering Im a heavy computer use with advanced software.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on January 09, 2010, 11:52:23 am
Windows 7 is best.Because it has better features then the other.And Windows 7 is a vast improvement from Vista as it takes up much less ram and has other optimizations such as fast booting times. I recommend Windows 7, and if you really don't want vista and don't want to wait for the final version of Windows 7, you can download a copy of the Release Candidate from the Microsoft website for free and use it up till June of 2010. I am working with the Release Candidate right now and so far I have absolutely no complaints, considering Im a heavy computer use with advanced software.

Hmm, well Windows 7 was released on the 22 October 2009.

The Release Candidate is no longer available for download from Microsoft. There is a 90-day free trial still available.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on January 09, 2010, 07:57:06 pm
Hmmm from me too - I thought the Release Candidate ran out in August...
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: lrh9 on January 09, 2010, 10:35:40 pm
Well. I burned the copy I downloaded. I'm wondering if it would still work. (I still have my activation code.)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: mad5ci on January 09, 2010, 11:15:21 pm
RC, as far as I remember, should work until something like 30th of march? Or may?
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: lrh9 on January 10, 2010, 08:35:41 am
RC, as far as I remember, should work until something like 30th of march? Or may?

Right, but I'm in agreement with others that Microsoft has removed the Release Candidate download. If you all ready have a copy and a activation code, then you'd probably be OK, but if you don't then you're SOL.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Art on January 10, 2010, 01:29:13 pm
Sure, and the first time you connect and get an upgrade or patch?? ::)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on February 06, 2010, 03:21:15 pm

After fitting new RAM and then tweaking the bios settings, (RAM timings, FSB etc) I have now found the sweet spot of the system.

CPU, Graphics card and FSB all overclocked, RAM underclocked but running at a 1:1 ratio (probably better for overclocking)

100% stable, no insane voltages or temperatures.

To go faster a better motherboard is required, this mobo will not go past 420 FSB but I have no plans on upgrading. Well maybe an SSD drive if the prices get real.

Mobo = Gigabyte EP43-DS3
CPU = Q9400 @ 3.4GHz
4 GIG RAM Kingston HyperX 1066 MHz @  840 MHz
HD4890 @ GPU 900MHz,  RAM  1100MHz

Win 7 WEI score

(https://aidreams.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fdatahopa.co.uk%2Fimages%2FWEI%403.4.gif&hash=5377a1b737ee6cdad0b93a02af5e32c21fb70f3b)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on February 06, 2010, 04:01:57 pm
Nice   ;D  Totally beats my system.  My lowest is the hard drive which staggers in at 3.9, but I have my eye on the Samsung drive we were talking about.  I don't know what I was thinking when I got this current drive - didn't research it enough or get one big enough...doh!

(https://aidreams.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.radav.co.uk%2Fmytemp%2Fimages%2Fslowmo.JPG&hash=b9793bb7fcf6ec8f894f5dd51d5de6f88059ae7c)

In short; you pwned me  :D
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on February 06, 2010, 05:18:15 pm
That HDD score is sick Freddy, a score that low can mean something isn’t right, if I was you I would go to the Asus site and see if there is a driver up date that is windows 7 ready for the chip-set. It could be that the HDD is in the wrong mode.

If that doesn’t help then that new Samsung drive is gona make a big improvement. Make sure to put windows on it and remove that old one from your PC, that’s what I would do.

Waiting for someone to whop me now  ;D :o ;D
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on February 06, 2010, 05:55:30 pm
Wow you are Da Man  ;D

I went to Asus, installed latest driver.  HDD shot up to 5.7 !

Overall 5.5 now - set by RAM - which I am going to upgrade as soon as the prices come down.

Many thanks  :)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on February 06, 2010, 07:51:13 pm
5.7, that’s more like it.

Glad the driver idea worked out  :)

The rest of your scores look about right to me from what I know of your PC.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on June 27, 2010, 02:38:50 pm
Is everyone getting lots of updates lately ?  I seem to be getting one every day.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: DaveMorton on June 27, 2010, 04:46:27 pm
My mother has been getting updates on her laptop on the order of 2 to 3 per day for the last week or more. I keep telling her "this is a good thing", but privately, I wonder just how shoddy the original product is, if this many "updates" and "patches" are needed. :-\
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on June 27, 2010, 04:51:19 pm
Well I tend to agree, it means they are working on bugs and things.  To me out of the box Windows 7 has been perfect really, but there will always be some issues in any kind of software.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: DaveMorton on June 27, 2010, 07:01:54 pm
I guess I'm what one might call a "late adopter". I switched from Win95 to Win98 when XP showed up in Beta, and only went to XP after it was out a few years. And I don't foresee any changes to this theme in the future. :) But I can do more with "flint knives and bear skins" than most can do with Deep Blue. (https://aidreams.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.geekcavecreations.com%2Fimages%2FbigGrin.gif&hash=a5ee62c3c0165a5717f3fecdadffe58d316f837a)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on June 27, 2010, 07:03:39 pm
 ;D I am sure you can - only a bad workman blames his tools !
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Maviarab on June 28, 2010, 11:54:00 am
Damn tools!...... ::)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Bragi on June 28, 2010, 12:28:49 pm
 ;D, ye, damn tools. :P

Hard disk speeds don't seem to change much though over the years, my system is about 3 years old,maybe a bit more, and the only number that's the same is the HD speed. All other things have improved somewhat.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on June 28, 2010, 01:49:00 pm
10000 RPM drives are faster, raid 2 of them and faster still.

Or if you have the cash get an Intel SSD drive.

Loving Windows 7 for me its been pretty perfect since it came out.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: GT40 on June 28, 2010, 03:14:48 pm

Hi GeekCaveCreations! Nice to read you and to see I'm not alone.

I spent a lot of years (in the last century, lol) with Windows 3.1. And jumped to 98 after XP appeared, and then to XP when Vista was ending. The true reason was a real money problem but I was very happy with my computer. Now the only interesting VR thing to me is Second Life (the first program I installed when I finally got XP). All is running good, no reason to change.

I love your slot machine. Very well done, working fine. I remember my W3.1 computers: I had put the shortcut of a slot machine on the desktop and I played everyday. But I'm still poor. :D

Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: DaveMorton on June 28, 2010, 05:54:54 pm
Thanks for the kind words, GT40. And hello.

While it's going to be a while yet before I finally break down and switch to 7, I've found myself a bit jealous of a couple of things that are included in  the new OS that XP just doesn't have, such as the nifty little clock that sits in the sidebar, and the constantly rotating background. I've decided, therefore, to take matters into my own hands, and wrote a couple of small apps to take care of the situation. Both are still in development, but they function well enough. I think I'll put them up on my downloads page of my site, for others to use. :)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: DaveMorton on June 29, 2010, 02:25:15 am
[update]
I've had to re-create the install files for both apps, but I got it done, and have the files up on my website, at http://www.geekcavecreations.com/?downloads (http://www.geekcavecreations.com/?downloads). Feel free to give them a try, along with any of the other apps and files I have there. :D The two files that {poorly} try to emulate Windows 7 features are DesktopClockSetup.exe and WS_setup.exe (trying to stay on topic here). Questions, comments and suggestions are most welcome.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on June 29, 2010, 12:06:44 pm
When anyone makes apps and then gives them away for free they should be applauded and thanked, so well done and thanks GeekCaveCreations.  :)

Now if I may say why I think XP is finished  ;)

There is no Direct X 10 or 11 support in XP and after spending quite a lot on a good graphics card I would like to see the latest games look as they were intended to look with all the latest graphics tweaks.

Also I had to up-grade for RAM reasons, my XP was 32 bit and it only supports 3 GIG of RAM, when you run, lets say Fallout 3 as it’s a game im playing now, on a 1 GIG graphics card and at maximum quality at 1920 x 1080 res you suddenly realise you don’t have enough RAM and you get those annoying windows paging the HD for RAM jerk outs.

So being a bit of a gamer there is only one choice Windows 7 64 bit.

I guess if you’re not into maxed out gaming and you don’t mind running Direct X 9 on the latest games then XP is still ok, just out dated to use and less efficient at utilising the latest quad core CPUs as windows 7 is better at spreading the load between cores.

OH and one last thing if you want to use a SSD drive instead of HD then Windows 7 is by far the best choice of OS as it supports all the optimisation tweaks needed to get the most out of the drive.

I’m not disagreeing with you XP users but there are real reasons to use 7, not just to say I have Windows 7.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: lrh9 on June 29, 2010, 05:10:05 pm
Don't toss out XP yet. Last I checked 7 was horrible for retro gaming. Halo crashed. Half Life crashed. Certainly anything older than that crashed. Of course I was trying them out on the live beta so maybe they've fixed that problem. However, viva retro.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: DaveMorton on June 29, 2010, 05:17:07 pm
Sounds like it's more a case of "Viva Dual-Boot!" (https://aidreams.co.uk/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.geekcavecreations.com%2Fimages%2FbigGrin.gif&hash=a5ee62c3c0165a5717f3fecdadffe58d316f837a)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on June 30, 2010, 10:32:21 am
To be fair, there were no official graphics card drivers back in the beta days of 7, now the drivers are solid.

viva retro on Win 7

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eXIY7FsRfE0

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vFXKY4pC4p4

Im not sure if the Halo vid is Halo 1, never played the game.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: lrh9 on June 30, 2010, 07:12:41 pm
That's the one, but I didn't see anywhere in the videos that showed they were playing on a Windows 7 box.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: DaveMorton on June 30, 2010, 09:57:40 pm
[snark] Irh9, if you want to shoot me a copy of the install CD, along with any CD keys, I'll install it on my Mom's box, and let you know what happens [/snark]

Kidding, kidding. ;) Sometimes my warped sense of humor gets the best of me.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on July 01, 2010, 03:11:24 pm
The titles of the two videos are:

Half Life 1 on Windows 7 (9800 video card)

&

Halo (PC) MAX Settings on Windows 7

This got me thiking what is the oldest 3D game I have and does it run in Win 7.

Quake 1 was released June 22, 1996 which makes it the oldest game I have and guess what it still runs today in Windows 7 64bit, I had to make a video of it, here it is, Quake 1 playing in hi res in Windows 7.  :o

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q_hnXF7UjKU
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on July 06, 2010, 01:24:45 pm
One old game I keep meaning to get hold of is Theme Hospital, that was fun.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on July 06, 2010, 05:36:56 pm
I played  Theme Hospital, I remember taking money from the patients but not treating them, I did try, but ended up on the front page of a newspaper, hehe, I think that was Theme Hospital, fun game.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on July 09, 2010, 04:20:11 pm

Yeah I think that is the one.  Here's a video I found :


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_64DAOrSMM
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on January 25, 2011, 12:02:33 pm
Windows 7 service pack 1 is just around the corner, at the moment all we can get is RC1, which I wouldn’t recommend getting, best to hang on for the final version, but the word is PC manufacturers have been given the final version to put on PC’s that will be sold in the coming months.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on January 25, 2011, 01:14:23 pm
Nice, though I don't know what they are going to fix, W7 has been perfect  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on January 25, 2011, 04:45:36 pm
Yup I agree with you Freddy W7 has been pretty perfect for me too, though there have been quite a lot of up-dates since its release.

SP1 is being released for the business sector I should think, large businesses tend not to up-grade to the latest OS until it reaches SP1.

SP1 = £ or $ for MS.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on February 10, 2011, 07:23:53 pm
I heard today that Win 7 SP1 is being released on 22nd Feb 2011.



Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on February 10, 2011, 10:45:53 pm
Thanks dude  O0
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: photostill on February 11, 2011, 08:07:30 am
I have to disagree on the Win 7  and retro gaming. Halo 1 runs fine on it. I've not had an issue what ever with it.

If you go back far enough, then ya, you start running into problems on retro gaming but it's because lots of the commands and file structures changed. Don't try old DOS games without an emulator.  They're not going to work. Around DOS 7, about 10 DOS commands were removed. Some of the win 98's won't work because that was the change over between FAT32 and NFTS. 

Despite of these, the legacy file holdovers do fairly well, with a little nudge here or there.

Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on February 11, 2011, 11:13:20 am
Im not sure who you are disagreeing with photostill.

What you posted sounds about right to me. O0
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: photostill on February 16, 2011, 01:09:23 am
I ran into something interesting today that does prevent earlier games from running. Win 7 as well as Vista defaults with read only permissions for the containing folder. All files within that you might not be able to access can be changed. However the original folder itself can not be changed and this is a default behavior I am yet to find a way around. I have two older games that will not run on Win7 for this very reason.

Nothing that M$ says do affects it as it auto returns back to the read only as soon as you close the properties box and open it again. Taking UAC off, doesn't affect it, Doing attrib command through DOS does not work, and setting the read only attrib in the properties box does not work. Nor does changing the ownership permissions. It's a sneaky M$ has pulled.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: DaveMorton on February 16, 2011, 08:56:16 am
You may want to try right-clicking on the shortcut for the games in question, and select "Run as Administrator", and see if that works. I've also had some limited success with logging in as an administrator, and changing the permissions for the folder that the games are in to allow your usual account to have write privileges. That last option isn't always successful, though, and isn't recommended unless you're the only one using the computer, AND have enough experience with Windows' "inner workings" to prevent catastrophe. ;)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on February 16, 2011, 10:50:39 am
@ photostill

Sounds like you have tried just about every option for these games, now I would like to know, which games are causing this?

Heres a thought, where are the games installed? I would try installing to another drive, or not the drive with windows on, you should have more control over the folder rights on say D: drive. 

As GCC says you could try “Run as Administrator” but why do I think you have already tried that. Maybe try setting the Administrator rights in the compatibility tab, set the program to run always with admin privileges. 
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Maviarab on February 16, 2011, 02:31:13 pm
Always be sure when installing old games to never let it auto install.....cancel it...open disc...and install from the setup.exe as administrator as well.

Not got a game yet that has not played perfectly on Win 7 64bit....
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: photostill on February 16, 2011, 05:43:12 pm
Nothing mentioned in the above three posts has not already been tried, with the exception of putting it on another drive. That option isn't available due to the design of the motherboard. There are simply no allowances made for a second internal hd. No power supply lead, no sata powercord connector, yada yada. It was set up to only ever have one hd.

Even the command box was run as administrator. The problem here isn't a setting. It's a default behavior of both Win7 and Vista that it treats the top folder as a write only. It's like a protected file status. You can delete a protected file and it looks like it went...until you go look again and find out it is back. You can't delete protected files without removing the protected status first. However there seems to be no way to remove the read only or to change that read only for the top most folder.

Return To Castle Wolfenstien was the game's name. Another having problems with seeing the read only function is 3DMax which refuses to run and returns an error about not having permissions. I'll have to look for the other game's name.

Yes, I know about autoinstall. I purposely go into open the cd and then chose the folders so I can first assign administrator rights before starting an install.

Now moving it to another install site outside the default Program Files (x86) might work. Haven't tried that yet. I know that Program Files (x86) sets up a few extra barriers before accepting which means you go through a few more hoops with the UAC. That's about the only options left other than to run it on an XP box. Even compatibility choices fail to work including M$ own troubleshooting offered over it.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on February 16, 2011, 05:58:47 pm
You don’t need to put in any more hardware to have another drive in windows, simply use the built in Windows 7 disk manager, shrink the C: drive and then create a new volume.

You should have no problem with permissions on the new drive.

I always install my games onto their own drive, as a rule, its what gamers do.   

Return to Castle Wolfenstein
Operating System:Windows 7 Ultiamte x86

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uqlju-RHMA0
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: photostill on February 16, 2011, 06:04:54 pm
I see something I have missed then. I will go look it up and try it. Guess you could say I'm an old gamer stretching back to the days of DOS. But never gamed with anyone else, nor had internet that would support gaming until recently.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: DaveMorton on February 16, 2011, 06:32:36 pm
I guess it should have occurred to me, as well, to suggest installing to a different drive/folder. I have my computer set up in such a way that the only thing on my C drive is the OS - And I literally mean the ONLY thing. All apps have their own drive and folder, games have a second, and I've even moved the "documents and settings" folder from the C drive to my Data drive. I've actually been doing this since Win98, so it's second nature now. :)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on February 16, 2011, 06:47:55 pm
Absolutely agree GCC,
C: drive is for windows and anything that should be installed on the same drive, anti virus for instance normally insists on being on the same drive as windows, which incidentally doesn’t have to be C: drive, I have seen PC’s with windows on D: drive, personally I wouldn’t recommend that.


Was good watching the Castle Wolfenstein video, thanks for bringing it up photostill, that brings back some memories  :) 
you know I might have to go hunting for that disk, now where did I put it…
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on February 16, 2011, 07:17:26 pm
Cracking game that :)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Art on February 17, 2011, 01:28:13 am
Always be sure when installing old games to never let it auto install.....cancel it...open disc...and install from the setup.exe as administrator as well.

Not got a game yet that has not played perfectly on Win 7 64bit....

Beg to differ old friend...
I found a super open source game that features 1st person shooter, deathmatch, multiplayer, great graphics and action.
It is called Nexuiz available at www.nexuiz.com . It is FREE and it runs like a scalded ape under Windows 7 - 64 bit! (at least on mine).
I can't remember when I've had so much fun. Well...OK...I really do but lets not go into that here!  ::) ;)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: photostill on February 17, 2011, 05:08:26 am
Many times in the past, I've run the OS on a D: drive. The main reason was many of the hard coded malwares are lost when they don't find a C:.

I'll partition off the drive and hope for better results but to be honest I think it will still be problems as I have noticed something that is in common for most of those that don't run. Those that seem to be a problem have a launcher instead of a direct exe file. The launcher gives you a set up choices as would most opening games, only it's not fully windowed. I'm leaning towards that might be the issue but will await till I've partitioned the drive.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on February 17, 2011, 12:06:44 pm
Oh! Lookout.

Nexuiz looks great Art thanks for posting.

I see it runs on the “CryENGINE 3” an excellent engine, however I wouldn’t have thought you could buy a PC off the shelf and have it play this game at a decent FPS, unless you get a full on gaming rig.

Taken from the CryENGINE 3 site.

Quote
The CryENGINE® is a highly advanced development solution that surpasses all expectations for the creation of blockbuster games, movies, high-quality simulations and interactive applications.The third iteration of Crytek's proprietary CryENGINE® is the only all-in-one game development solution
for the PC, Xbox 360™ and PlayStation®3 that is truly next-gen ready.

When I get the time I will download it and install it onto my gaming machine in Windows 7 64bit then report back.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on February 17, 2011, 05:25:35 pm
Right,, some confusion.

There are, I think,  2 games called Nexuiz, Classic Nexuiz which I think is the game Art mentioned and Nexuiz which is the newer version that will use the CryENGINE 3. But to be honest I’m not even sure about the new Nexuiz game, the site is,,  well not very clear. I know this, the pictures on the homepage showing the game are nothing like the game I downloaded.   

Classic Nexuiz is an OpenGL game.
Normally unless you have a dedicated graphics card in your PC OpenGL doesn’t run at all well does it. 

Anyway I installed Classic Nexuiz and it runs at around 100FPS @ 1920 x 1080 and smooth as an androids bottom.  ;D

It reminds me of the Quake 3 engine, that was OpenGL too.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Art on February 18, 2011, 12:16:18 am
Sorry about the confusion DH but I've had Nexuiz for about a year now and didn't realize that they are working on a new Nexuiz. I guess the original one that I still use is now called the "Classic Nexuiz"...oh well...I guess they have to call it something instead of Nexuiz I and Nexuiz II, etc.

At any rate, I do enjoy playing against the bots and single player mode. After every level that you complete successfully, you then become presented with a new level. You must colplete each level in order to advance otherwise you will never see nor be allowed to play anything beyond the first 3 levels I believe. Each advanced level offers new tricks, traps and gameplay as well as a variety of bot types, intelligence, strengths and sheer numbers of bots!

For the price (FREE) it really is a great game!!

 O0
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: photostill on February 18, 2011, 05:59:04 am
Tried this out tonight. Didn't get it running at first on the Vista machine. Discovered after swapping machines, there is more than one exe in there. When I got the right one, it ran fine.

Thanks for the tip on the game.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on February 22, 2011, 04:57:20 pm
Microsoft are releasing Windows 7 Service pack 1 today 22 Feb 2011, it’s going to be available from the link below, it should also come in as a Windows up-date soon.

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows/downloads/service-packs/
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: photostill on February 22, 2011, 07:48:08 pm
Interesting that Win7 is coming out with a new SP. One of the things I have learned is to be very leery of SPs when they first come out. If I take this SP, it will only be after some time has passed. I've see too many screwups to be fixed later, resulting in computers that need to have the OS reinstalled to fix.

My surfing computer is the latest victim of just such a problem. I waited on both SP1 and SP2 for Vista until I got really concerned over security updates that can not be gotten until you get the latest SP. To my dismay, the SP2 was not a very good fit to the net connections with this computer. Everything was fine until the installation and reboot after SP2 install. Once that was over, all of a sudden, the computer could not find it's own internal IP nor the gateway on the home net. The gateway is almost always a default and rarely changes. The IP should come up as a consecutive number within the LAN. However it didn't come up at all, resulting in having to reinstall the OS to cure this hardware/driver problem.

XP SP2 left people with partial installs and hung in the middle. The only cure seemed to be reinstall of the OS at first. M$ had to rewrite some of the SP2 to get it out of that loop.

So given all the past problems I will wait a while before accepting any SP.

Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on February 23, 2011, 12:16:56 pm
I can’t argue with any of that photostill, which is a shame because I like a good argument.  :D,

Oh hang on maybe the Vista SP1, I remember people crying out for SP1 on Vista, as it was so buggy on release, unlike Win 7.

But yeah, I can see why people aren’t going to rush to get Win 7 SP1, why bother putting the pack in if nothing is wrong with your system, and as they say “fools rush in”.

Anyway this fool is forced to install SP1, I need to know all the in and outs of applying it as I’m going to be putting it on a good number of systems over the next week or so.

The download took a long time for me, not my connection speed, but so many people seem to be downloading it that it’s flooding the server.

The install took about 20 mins and so far everything seems perfect, though obviously I haven’t had the chance to check everything in Windows yet, if I come across any problems I post it.

Attached are two images, one confirming the install and the other showing system properties also confirming SP1 is installed.   
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on February 23, 2011, 02:56:23 pm
Thanks for being the Guinea Pig Data  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on April 07, 2011, 05:04:12 pm
So, how is SP1 shaping up ?

I'm now thinking about updating mine.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on April 07, 2011, 05:38:38 pm
Its been perfect on all the computers I’ve put it on, I cant think of or haven’t seen any bad things that have come from it.

There has been the odd bugs with IE9, totally not related to SP1 but some might be confusing the two.

One thing that springs to mind is:

After the install of Win 7 SP1 and when you reboot, windows runs an optimisation tool in the background, this tool can take quite a while to complete its job, if you open task manager you can see it running. While it’s running and optimising, the PC can seem to be a little sluggish, so now I leave it to do its job for a while (maybe 15 mins) straight after the first reboot.   
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on April 07, 2011, 05:50:42 pm
OK thanks, I'll do that tomorrow then.  Cheers  :)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on April 11, 2011, 11:46:57 am
How did the SP1 install go?
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on April 11, 2011, 11:49:33 am
It went fine, seems to all be working okay :)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on April 11, 2011, 11:54:33 am
Good to know, thanks  O0
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Freddy on April 14, 2011, 01:08:38 pm
It seems to be booting a little faster now too  :)
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Duskrider on April 14, 2011, 05:38:12 pm

 O0
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: Data on April 14, 2011, 05:43:42 pm
It seems to be booting a little faster now too  :)

Yeah I thought that, just a little.

I had a massive 22 up-dates today on my machine and various amounts on other computers but all had at least 16.

Mostly security up-dates.
Title: Re: Windows 7
Post by: DaveMorton on April 15, 2011, 12:27:14 am
My XP box also had at least a dozen or so updates last night, too. Then I was bugged every 5 minutes, for over two hours, with "Windows Update is nearly complete. Please reboot... Blah blah blah..." I'll reboot when I'm darned good and ready, thank you; and not one second before!  :tickedoff: There needs to be a button labeled "Trust me, I know what I'm doing!"