I'm looking for a program...

[warrior queen]

I have just bought a laptop with Windows 7.
I need it to run a marine navigation program that uses a GPS (external) that only goes to XP and Vista. The navigation program runs fine - it's the GPS thingy that glitches out (it only has XP and Vista drivers, and although we downloaded updated drivers from the GPS site, they cause a conflict so we need to run it on the earlier versions of the drivers.)
Apparently, I need to get a program that will enable Win 7 to read and interface with all the previous versions of Windows. I've been advised to buy Windows 7 pro, to enable the earlier drivers to work.
Having just spent big dollars on the new computer, I don't really want to spend more.
Is there a free program that will do this?
Help!

 

[NewEnglandGirl]

I'm so sorry, Warrior Queen. But this OP just begs for a "I'm looking for a story I read here" post/answer. Or maybe I'm just in a bizarre mood.

I hope you get your answer, since I am obviously no help.

 

[Sean]

I have just bought a laptop with Windows

That's where you went wrong.

 

[islandman]

Win7 Pro does have an XP mode that will enable you to run your GPS drivers. Off the top of my head, I can't think that of any program - free or otherwise - that will allow the same.

I would suggest:

1) Go here and confirm that your GPS hardware is in fact not compatible. If it is, follow the instructions and happy days are here again;

2) Load only the GPS' Vista drivers on your laptop. Most Vista drivers work in Windows7 (Suggest removing any drivers associated with the GPS first, reboot and then install Vista version);

3) Buy Win7 Pro.

 

[warrior queen]

That's where you went wrong.

Haha
Had no choice - this nav program only runs on windows.
And as my skipper needs it to steer the boat...
that, plus he's not totally computer savvy... A mac would completely stuff him up!