386 Enhanced Windows

[computerman29651]

I am trying to get an old application to work with Windows XP Pro. Each time I try to install the application, I get the error message "this application requires 386 enhanced windows". Has anyone ever ran into this problem? If so, did you finad any solution? Can 386 enhanced work with XP?

 

[bcastner]

Windows XP does an impressive job of running programs that were originally written years ago for Windows 3.x. To run these older 16-bit programs under a 32-bit operating system, Windows XP launches a subsystem—a virtual machine—that mimics "386 enhanced mode" in the older Windows 3.x environment.

Many 16-bit programs use the Windows 3.x-vintage Win.ini and System.ini files to store program-specific configuration information (some programs use private .ini files as well). Windows XP retains bare-bones copies of Win.ini and System.ini in the %SystemRoot% folder. If you encounter problems with a 16-bit application, you might find clues in these two files.

I am very doubtful you can pass whatever program checks are being made to determine whether XP is running "in 386 enhanced mode". Use the Application Compatability Toolkit to have a fighting chance:

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=294895

 

[computerman29651]

I know the application can run on Windows 98 and 2000.

 

[bcastner]

Again, try using the XP application compatability features.

 

[bcastner]

Almost forgot, if no joy under XP, use the Virtual Machine with XP as Host OS. Install Win2k or whatever you feel will work to allow the application to run.

Virtual PC is now free from Microsoft:

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/virtualpc/default.mspx

 

[linney]

You might find some of the suggestions here helpful, especially the link to DosBox?

Does XP support 16 bit DOS programs?
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