For those of you who don't have time for fun and games, XP is still available. We are also finding that Vista does not always work well in mixed network situations. Not that there is anything really wrong with Vista, but because there is a severe lack of driver support. Most of these problems can be avoided if you first do a little homework and check the HCL.

　　In fairness to Microsoft and the other manufactures, they have made this information available.

　　This means that your office network may not be able to work with a Vista operating system. You could suddenly find that your video card is not supported. You just spent $200 Auto Gas Springs on Vista and now you have to purchase new hardware.

　　This list is compiled by Microsoft and only contains hardware that has been approved.If you should talk to a tech about Vista, most will tell you to hold off for awhile. To get XP you will have to seek out your local computer shop (like us). This means you will have to buy new accessories. They also changed operating systems in order to use the network printers and scanners already in place at their office. The situation is more critical if you purchased Vista to upgrade an existing machine. We have been dealing with this since the January release. It will be available for at least another year, but you cannot get it at the big box stores.

　　So, bottom line, if you have that itch to go out and get a Vista machine. If you upgrade, be prepared for driver and hardware issues. They will have Retail and OEM software and will still be able to build you a new XP machine.

　　. Microsoft makes available on their web site a list called the Hardware Compatibility List or the HCL as we techies call it. Be prepared for some of accessories not to work. If a little time was spent reading about the compatibility issues, many surprises could be avoided. It is not uncommon to get your new computer home only to find out printers, scanners, cameras and other accessories will not work. A few clients have bought Windows XP and loaded it on their new Vista computers in order to network with the office computers. Many of the devices you normally use are behind in issuing new compatible drivers.

　　The problem affects many consumers because all the big box stores are only selling Vista loaded machines.

　　Complicating this further, Vista is a "technology break". A little time spent with this list can save a ton of grief, pain and money. Just Google Microsoft Vista HCL. Do this BEFORE you put your money down. This means many older accessories and software simply will not work and the manufactures have no plans to update

Posted by: spareparts at 03:21 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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