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Windows XP Compatability Mode

How to run 16 bit applications in Windows XP

© Michael Simpson

Sep 15, 2006

A short tutorial on how to use the Windows XP Compatibility mode.

If you are trying to run an old Windows 95 or 98 application in XP it probably wont run. You will usually get errors about not enough memory. You may be thinking "but Ive get over 1gig of RAM ... how can I be out of memory?".

The problem is that XP doesnt natively understand 16bit or 8bit applications. It thinks there isnt enough memory because the 32bit operating system handles memory in an entirely different way.

The solution?

  1. Find the .exe for the application.
  2. RIGHT click on the .exe file.
  3. Choose Properties and then click on the Compatibility tab.
  4. Check the box that says "Run this program in compatibility mode for:"
  5. Now choose the operating system you need to emulate.

Note:You may also need to adjust "Display settings". You can find these options directly below the "Compatibility mode" section of the Compatibility tab.

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The copyright of the article Windows XP Compatability Mode in PC Software/OS is owned by Michael Simpson. Permission to republish Windows XP Compatability Mode in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.





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