Dell OptiPlex GX50 User Guide - Page 143

Application and Device Compatibility Although Windows XP is designed to be compatible with a wide range of application programs and hardware devices, some older programs and devices may not be usable. Check the Microsoft Web site at www.microsoft.com for application programs and hardware devices known to be compatible. When buying new software and devices, look for those that are labeled as ready for Windows XP. If you encounter problems using an application program designed for an earlier Windows operating system, Windows XP provides a compatibility mode feature (see "Program Compatibility Wizard"). If you are unsuccessful at installing application programs or hardware devices designed to operate on earlier Windows operating systems, contact the manufacturer of the product for information or updates for Windows XP. Windows XP also includes a new technology that addresses the problems sometimes encountered on previous operating systems with Windows application programs that, when installed, replace current versions of certain Windows files with older versions. This situation can cause problems with the newer application programs, which rely on the replaced files. To eliminate this problem and improve operating system stability, Windows XP manages multiple versions of files and invokes the correct version required by a program. Program Compatibility Wizard A program compatibility feature is provided in Windows XP that solves some issues that may be encountered when attempting to run older application programs. Using the Program Compatibility Wizard, you can configure a program to run in an environment closer to Windows 95, Windows 98/Me, Windows NT 4.0 with Service Pack 5, or Windows 2000. To use the Program Compatibility Wizard: 1 Click the Start button, point to All Programs-> Accessories, and click Program Compatibility Wizard. 2 When the welcome screen appears, click Next>. 3 Select how you want to locate the program to run with compatibility settings: from a list, available on a CD, or manually located. Then click Next>. NOTE: The time required to collect and transfer data depends on the amount of data collected. Times can vary from just a few minutes to several hours. NOTE: If you experience problems with your operating system or other applications after performing an installation, you can use System Restore to return your computer to a previous stable condition. M i c r o so f t ® W i n d o ws ® XP Fe a tu r e s 141