Converting dbase iv to newer windows versions on vista

[MTBulldawg]

I've got several applications that I originally wrote in dbase III+, then converted to dbase IV for my company several years ago. Printing is obviously an important part of all the apps., and although I had to re-write some code when we switched to XP, all apps. still ran flawlessly.

I've just switched to a new machine with Vista and brought the dbase IV apps. across. Printing isn't working anymore and from googling every which way under the sun, it appears there's not a good fix available. I use these apps. on my machine only, even though my laptop is on a wireless network.

But I can't print, so looking to upgrade. I don't have time to re-write all these apps., nor do I wish to lose any of the data that has accumulated over the years. Does a newer version recognize the *.dbf formats, and can I migrate the data smoothly to something like visual dbase 7? Will all my programs run somehow or another (*.prg files) with little modification? Thanks in advance.

Rick

 

[cricket]

What precisely is your printing problem?
Do you only have USB print ports on the new computer?
Have you bought new printers which do not have their own in-built fonts to use as a text printer?

 

[MTBulldawg]

It has something to do with vista. When I first switched switched to a new laptop with only USB ports, I learned I had to use the following command within my dbase programs:

SET PRINTER TO \\network name\network printer name = lpt1

That command cleared up the problem of only having USB ports (no parallel ports) for printing.

However, this isn't working in vista. I've tried net use commands, as well as all other networking and DOS commands to redirect printing that I've used in the past 20 years - Vista just doesn't like it.

So, next alternative is to upgrade, but I really need to use the dBase programs (*.prg) that I've written going all the way back to '86.

 

[cricket]

Try using your normal standard commands , logged in as an administrator.

 

[octavian2006]

Try DosPrint

http://www.geocities.com/dosprint

It work's for me, even in Win Vista.

 

[Albertaguy]

I too am now converting my dBase IV applications to Windows XP and then to Vista. I wrote my applications 20 years ago, and am just no re-familiarizing myself with the "code" of my applications. I relied on HP Laserjet 4, 5 and 6's using parallel ports to run my applications, however, I want to use a laptop and a newer HP Laserjet and need to understand what "Set Print To" command will help me re-direct my print jobs to the USB port and subsequent new Laserjet printer. Could use some help. Thanks. New to this forum, please point out any mistakes that I am making in my approach to find answers.
SP