Posts by magikilwizard

Several older software compatible with XP are not with Vista; even when using install and run in compatibility mode for 98 or xp. examples of some of mine are Ulead PhotoImpact 11; Power DVD; Musicmatch; etc. Trying to install these then run either resulted in windows not allowing the install or killing the ap as it starts to load or ap causing blue/white screen. So you have to try the software to see; some may work some may not...part is software and part the configuration of the computer setup. Just my experience with Vista so far. take care, Magikil

Hi, I just got my Dell 1501 last month. I reformatted 120 GB HD using Vista disk. Just tap the F2 key as it boots to enter set up then set CD drive as first boot option. Then you can delete the partition, format, then install Vista without all the extra Dell utilities. Suggest you check into the following programs as they are helpful to me: AVG (free anti-virus); Zone Alarm (free firewall); K-lite full Codec (include classic media player which will play .flv, .divx, .mov, .avi, .mp4, etc. ); RocketDock (free docking panel for keeping desktop clear. Just drag shortcuts to it , and the dock can be set to auto hide and appear on mouse over, etc); Sun java; shockwave lite; flash; Firefox and add-ons(download helper; compact menu2); Winamp Pro; Newest Catalyst drivers; Nero; Utorrent; WinRar; and Photoshop CS. If you get into music and videos, check out Iomega's external HD's. I got 2 of their 160 GB HD 's which can use either USB 2.0 or firewire connection. The Nano wireless mouse is nice from Logitech. Easily transported with a very small usb receiver and programmable wheel and buttons.
Hope this helps , Magikil