Hardware Reference
In-Depth Information
Application Fails to Install or Fails to Run
Usually, when an application fails to install or fails to run, it's because it's somehow
incompatible with your system. It could be that your OS version isn't supported or the
application doesn't like a piece of hardware you've installed (most likely the sound or
display adapter). The hardware may be inadequate (check the minimum requirements for
the application) or simply incompatible.
Check the application's specs to make sure your system meets the minimum
requirements in every way. If your system meets the requirements but the application
still won't install, check out the Support section of the application manufacturer's website.
There may be a patch you can download that will fi x the problem, or there may be
suggestions regarding workarounds. For example, in some cases, installing an updated
driver for your display adapter or sound card can make an application work that
previously didn't.
If the program meets all the hardware requirements but not the OS, you can try running
the Setup program in
Compatibility Mode
(in Windows). Compatibility Mode tricks the
application into thinking you have a different version of the OS than you actually have,
bypassing any version requirements that may be built into the software. It doesn't always
work, because different applications implement version requirements in various ways,
and some of those ways have nothing to do with the version-specifi c bits and pieces that
Compatibility Mode offers the application.
Another possible source of trouble when installing applications is over-zealous
security. The OS itself may prevent you from installing an application, for example. If
you're logged in as a standard user, you may need to log out and then log in again as an
administrator. If the application being installed requires Internet access to complete the
installation, you may need to tell your fi rewall that it's OK to let that application through.
And fi nally, the application may make a system change that your antivirus program or
security suite detects a as a threat (falsely), causing the security program to prevent the
change from being made.
EXERCISE 8.5
Run an Application in Compatibility Mode
1.
In Windows, choose Start
All Programs, and then right-click any of the applications
and choose Properties. The Properties box opens for that shortcut.
2.
Click the Compatibility tab.
3.
Select the Run This Program In Compatibility Mode For check box.
4.
Open the drop-down list below the check box, and examine the available OSs. Click
Windows 98 / Windows Me.
5.
In the Settings area, select the Run In 256 Colors check box.
