How do I use two versions of the same software?

[alamogordo_ed]

Hi everyone,

I have some older programs that will not run on the latest version of adobe reader (7.0) but I like some of the features of 7.0.


Is there a way to configure these versions (6.0 and 7.0) so that I can use both?

I have tried installing the older version on an external drive with the older software that will not run on adobe 7.0 but as soon as I connect the external drive and try to open the older programs, adobe 7.0 from my main hard drive takes over and I get errors on my older programs.

I even tried doing it in reverse, i.e. putting 7.0 on the external drive but I get the same result. I know there must be a simple way so I am asking you all, the pro's for help.

Thanks,

Ed

[pam123]

If I'm wrong someone will correct me but I think your solution is "virtualization".
This is a software set-up that does what it says, creates a virtual machine within your regular machine and prevents the software on it from interacting with, in your case overwriting or being overwritten by, the other apps on the machine.
It's usually done to test programs you have doubts about but you can use it to set up a quarantined folder where you can run the older version of Adobe and the older programs.
There's a good description of it, with instructions, in the July 2006 MaximumPC that uses the free Microsoft Virtual Server 2005 but there are other programs out there which the article also lists.
You need to be running XP pro and have the cd.

Before you do this though check to see if those programs you want to run have any updates.

[alamogordo_ed]

Thanks for your help but I only have Windows XP Home Edition so I take it that your suggestions won't work or did I take it wrong?

That may explain alot but I hope I am either not understanding you correctly or there is another way.

Please help if you can.

Thanks,

Ed

[pam123]

No you've got it right.
You need XP pro for this.