ME vs new XP (WME) [Archive] - PC Tools Community Forum

malloryomae

10-06-2002, 05:44 AM

I am SICK of my OS screwing up. Can I just buy a new hard drive and the full version of XP and start everything over? I know there will be compatability issues but I've had this OS for two years and it just NEVER works right. Do I have to replace my RAM too? I just want to start over without going out and buying a whole new computer system.

Paul S

10-06-2002, 05:53 AM

Hi,

Click on the following to link to check your hardware is sufficient to run Windows XP: <a target="_blank" href=http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/evaluation/sysreqs.asp>http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/evaluation/sysreqs.asp</a>

You will not need to replace your RAM as long as your system meets the minimum requirements.

Windows XP - like Windows 2000 - has 'compatibility mode' settings. This in theory means if software was designed for, say Windows ME then it will still work on Windows XP. I have had mixed results with this. The best thing I have found is to disable the visual themes for the respective applicaton.

Check the link I have given and see if your system meets the minimum requirments. /images/forums/icons/smile.gif

Regards,

Paul

mailto:paul@winguides.com (paul@winguides.com)

malloryomae

10-06-2002, 06:01 AM

Visual Themes?

If RAM does not matter then I don't understand why my system keeps crashing when I reinstall WinME. I have had my c drive formatted three times. There has to be a place that stores some kind of back up or hidden files. I don't want them to reappear when I go out and buy a new hard drive. Am I being paranoid?
btw my system will exceed the sys requirements!
tyvm for your help!
XX

Paul S

10-06-2002, 06:11 AM

Hi,

'Visual Themes' is the name of the control responsible for generating the large title bar etc you come to associate with Windows XP.

Don't get me wrong, RAM is very important and can be the route cause of so many problems. My comment was based upon you replacing the RAM to a different type (e.g. PC100 to PC133) just to install and run Windows XP.

Loosly speaking if you low level format the Hard Drive all of the data will be removed, including the 'hidden' files. I will state this is not the case as files etc can be recovered but this will not effect the operation of the OS.

Before you purchase Windows XP just make sure all of the manufacturers of the hardware you have support XP and provide suitable drivers. Windows XP has an excellent driver database, however, the manufacturer supplied drivers is usually the best.

Hope this helps.../images/forums/icons/smile.gif

Paul

mailto:paul@winguides.com (paul@winguides.com)

malloryomae

10-06-2002, 06:31 AM

And again thank you very much!
I looked on my paper work for my RAM and the only info it gives me is 128MB Memory Module. I purchased 256MB SDRAM over a year ago and added it to my system. The RAM I purchased was PC133 but the RAM that I already owned does not have any additional information with my original system paperwork or the Gateway website where I can access my purchased specifications. Is there a place I can go to that will tell me EXACTLY what RAM I have within my computer? Do I need to open my tower and look at the hardware specifically and if so what am I looking for?
Thank you!
:)

Paul S

10-07-2002, 07:37 AM

Hi,

The best thing to do would be to have a look at the Motherboard b ook that should have come with the computer. This will tell you about all of the features and capabilities of your Motherboard.

You can have a look at the RAM but the labelling can be somewhat lacking!

If you can find out what Motherboard you have you will be able to go to the Manufacturers website and view the specifications.

Hope this helps...

Paul

mailto:paul@winguides.com (paul@winguides.com)