Straight answers please (if possible)

[jharris]

I've read through the forums and didn't find a clear-cut answer. I'm thinking of purchasing ME and do a clean install (format C drive) after Ghosting my 98 system. Is the ME upgrade all I need (it's cheaper)? I mean, will the installation program only ask me to insert my 98 disk as proof I've purchased MS products before or will it want to build upon the 98 system files (I hope not)?

Also, what about hardware and software conflicts? My blanket question is: Generally, if it worked with 98 will it work with ME (because it's an extention of 98)? I am just looking for a idea for backward compatibility.

Thanks.

[reboot]

There's absolutely NO guarantee that all or any of your hardware is compatible, and not a wise move in MHO.
However, IF you already own a copy of 98, then just buy the el-cheapo upgrade. It will ask for proof of 98 ownership before continuing the install. BTW, a win98 startup disk works just fine as well.
I've got ME upgrade for sale if you'd like. Offers.

[jharris]

I appreciate the candor. Care to tell me what ME did - or didn't do - that disappointed you? I've talked to a few people at work who swear by ME (not at it), but they're not extremely tech oriented. That's why I've come here to ask my techie 'friends.'

Win98 has just been giving me way too many headaches lately (namely, my recent unrepairable-registry woes), and I was looking for an immediate change for the better. Win2K is probably more than I need (cost and functionality), and there are the same compatibility concerns (hardware and software) to consider if I switch to it.

Thanks

[mairving]

Reboot, you've been trying to sell that copy of ME for quite awhile. I am not so sure about your salesmanship. First you tell them how bad it is, then you offer to sell it to them. Just kidding anyway.

Truthfully, Jharris, I can see no reason to spend the money in an upgrade. There are a few features in ME that are nice but is it worth it, probably not. I personally don't have many problems, although it does seem to lock up a bit more. With the upgrade version of ME, it will attempt to find a version of Windows on your hard drive, then your floppy, then it will ask you to insert a CD, so you are covered there.

Sorry, Reboot, it looks like you are going to miss another sale.

[reboot]

No prob. In my opinion, ME is 98 for dummies. :D
There are a few "enhancements", but mostly it's all smoke and mirrors, you'll either love it or hate it, there seems to be no middle ground.
What ME did:
creates a _Restore folder on ALL partitions/drives, can be turned off.
Ease of Internet Connection Sharing, what 98SE should have been.
Ease of LAN setup, what ANY OS should be able to do with a minimum of effort/tech knowledge.
What ME didn't do:
Provide drivers for some hardware, and searching the manufacturer's websites for updates is a major pain, especially when ME is NOT officially supported, and the 98 drivers don't work.
Too much "in bed" with Intel, too many compatibilty issues (read BSOD's) with AMD/Cyrix/Winchip CPU's.
http://www.pcmech.com/article.htm?meornot

[jharris]

I decided to go dual boot with 98 and 2K. I found a 2K upgrade online for $104, and I 'm waiting for it to arrive.

Thanks for all the answers. I'm finding how much I need to learn.