Dual boot - Win 7 +XP

[venator]

I'm running Win 7 64 bit, but would like XP for some older programs.

I have installed a spare 1tb SATA disk, which I can empty.

Is there an easy installation guide for Dummies anywhere?

[rojash]

You don't need to dual boot, you can download XP mode for Windows 7 for free from Microsoft.
http://www.microsoft....tual-pc/download.aspx

[venator]

OK, I've done that, but it won't run because it needs Win 7 Pro or better - I have Home Premium.

Have I wasted my time? Not paying £90 for the upgrade...

Surely I can install XP on my spare hard disk?

[ChuckFickens]

"Surely I can install XP on my spare hard disk?"

Yes.
http://www.sevenforum...ion-windows-7-xp.html

Another option (if it's a fairly meaty computer) is to run windows XP as a virtual computer (similar to microsofts XP mode) but use the vmware player instead as it will work on 7home.

http://www.vmware.com/products/player/
(you need to register but it's free)

You can then run windows XP in a window under windows7

[venator]

Thanks, Chuck - looks like there are 101 ways to b**** up the first option, but I'll give the vmware site a go. Let you know what happens!!

I actually have a decent spare laptop with XP which does the job, but it's a nuisance switching round.

[Davethedog]

Venator I can't add to anything, but can you tell me what programs run under XP but not 7? You do know that 7 has a compatability mode, this has enabled me to run nearly every old program under 7.

The exception was a very old craft application.

[rojash]

"but it won't run because it needs Win 7 Pro or better"
I'm kind of puzzled. I'm not disagreeing with you, but I just wonder why, on the page I linked to, in the "Select your edition of Windows 7 and desired language for installation" section, it offers Home Premium, if it won;t actually run?

[ChuckFickens]

I'd guess MS would try and direct you to their upgrade scheme to upgrade to pro if you select home.
http://www.howtogeek....s/2010/02/sshot92.png

[venator]

Loaded VM program - must have b****** that up somehow, came up with what looked like an old b/w DOS screen and died!

Upgrade to Pro costs about £80 - not worth it.

I'm trying to run an old program written for Win 95. It was the best version of GO - the old Japanese game which is more complex than chess! It ran in XP compatibility mode, would you believe.

Perhaps I should try to find a modern version...

Thanks for all the help!

[venator]

Victory! Just downloaded " The many faces of Go"

If you fancy a real mental challenge, why not have a go (ouch!)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Go_(game)