[blackbird]

Hi
I've just today got a new computer - was very happy with my laptop running XP, but the screen died and it wasn't worth fixing so now have a new PC running Vista, which I have no experience with.

I've got a Creative Zen Micro 6g and I like to use Creative Media Source with that - I can't get it loaded up. Tried to install it a few times and it just doesn't recognise the player. I'm not connected to the internet on the new one yet because it wont recognise my modem, and I'm also having problems with my digital camera. I haven't even tried the printer yet.

Has anyone any tips? I don't fancy buying all new peripherals when I don't want or need them, and am inclined just to take the bloody computer back and try to get something with XP.

Thanks

Blackbird

[Dave Hybrid]

Welcome to Vista... :p

I think your camera and printer should work with the Vista pre-installed drivers, just plug them in and see.

As for the MP3 player visit Creatives website, the player may install with Vistas included drivers and you may then be able to add songs manually but if you want to use the Creative Media Source software you will need an updated version.

Same for the Modem drivers, or try calling your ISP to get the new drivers on CD, you can then sort the other driver/software issues via the manufacturers websites after.

[blackbird]

The modem is an old one and I've already looked into that - no updated drivers so I've ordered a new one from my ISP - don't mind about that, as, like I said, it was old anyway and needed replacing. I'm pretty sure the camera will be okay once I'm connected to the internet and can search for drivers because its only a couple of months old. The MP3 player I'm not so sure on. I've been on creatives website and I can't find anything, although I admit I'm not the most savy of people. When I get the internet going on the new PC will it be able to search the internet for new drivers for me? MP3 player is over 18 months old and creative support is minimal now.

Thanks so much for replying - this is very frustrating!

B

[Dave Hybrid]

First thing is to get the Internet going, it makes fixing the other problems much easier.

As for the MP3 player, if it will only work with Creatives software then unless they release a driver/software to fix the problem you are stuck.

Chances are if it's 18 months old they have no interest in doing so, Vista compatibility issues are a 'Have to buy new hardware to further the IT sector' money spinner, every company is cashing in.

[Dave Hybrid]

There is no harm in just plugging these devices in and seeing if Vista supports them out of the box, if they refuse to work go online to the manufactures websites, if you still hit a brick wall replace the item.

When I upgraded I had to change my printer, digital camera and soundcard.

[blackbird]

No - tried just plugging them in too, and nothing. I suppose it's my own fault for not doing my research first, but I am really hacked off - and I doubt I'm going to get any joy out of Creative - all their forum fixes for compatibility issues are for much newer hardware than mine.

If I return the computer to factory settings and box it up will they take it back, do you think? I'm not at all happy with it, and I'd rather have a more basic model that I could use my peripherals on.

B

[Dave Hybrid]

Returning it would be down to the company you bought it from, if it's been used and isn't faulty then I wouldn't hold your breath.

As for getting an older machine you would have to go second hand as XP is not sold on new machines anymore (or they are hard to find).

A possible solution would be to buy XP for 60 odd quid and put it on the new machine, however, if you cannot do this yourself it would probably be cheaper to replace the MP3 player etc.

Sorry to be the barer of all this bad news. :)

[blackbird]

I had a feeling you were going to say that - laptop has been on its way out for a while, and I didn't really want vista because I had a feeling this might happen. I couldn't find find a new machine with XP on it anywhere.
Solution for the time being has been to run the knackered laptop with new monitor for internet and MP3 - lots of swapping about with cables but it will do until I the new modem turns up and I decide if I want to upgrade the MP3.
Thanks again for all your help.

Off topic - but just wondering if you knew of any articles about the TV tuner? I've got a couple of leads, but no idea what to do with them. I don't need to situate the computer near a television ariel do I? I'm assuming it will pick something up once I get the intenet going?

[Dave Hybrid]

A PC TV tuner works much the same a normal one does.

With a portable Ariel on analogue you will get some channels, most will be poor quality.

If its a digital tuner then you will need a proper house Ariel.

[blackbird]

Thanks again mate, you've been great.
B