Tech Corner - Technology News & Tips for the Business Computer
User
Windows 7 – The Real Deal at Long Last
If you are among those of us that use computers
for business who have felt disappointment with the Vista version of
Windows – prepare for a very pleasant surprise. Windows 7 seems to
be the real deal. Most of the new and neat things that we had hoped
for and found lacking in Vista are real and working well in WN7 and
that’s just the beginning. WN7 is actually easier to use and the
versions we have tested have been almost bug free!
Speaking in general terms WN7 is better
organized and more intuitive than any OS that Microsoft has ever
released in the past. The Internet is full of articles and blogs
that describe and dissect all the new bells and whistles in WN7 so I
won’t repeat that here. I’m going to focus on the aspects of WN7
that matter to 1Goal customers and partners who will be using the
new OS on computers that drive their business. And in that regard,
WN7 has one thing in common with all of its predecessors – the
dreaded task of upgrading and moving all those programs and all that
data (your stuff) that you currently use over to the new system.
The Down Side of Upgrading
For users of the Vista operating system it will
be possible to upgrade your existing OS live but I would recommend a
reformat and new install of Windows 7 over the upgrade option if
possible. Think of it like hooking up new PVC plumbing to old cast
iron plumbing in your house. It’s definitely doable but it requires
some connections that are dubious at best and cause for some
paranoia once you know they are there. Every faint noise in the
house at night sounds like water running in the basement. I would
rather not have the worry. But that’s just me, based on what I know
about Windows.
The term live upgrade means that you start your
existing version of Windows, insert the new Windows 7 installation
DVD, click a few choices and then Windows does all the work. There
is no live upgrade option for XP users to WN7, and that is a going
to be a problem. The reality is that some 60% to 70% of us using
computers in shops and small technology companies are still using XP
Pro due to disappointment with or fear of Vista. The upgrade process
will not be a smooth one in my opinion. The only upgrade scenarios
for an XP user involves saving out and reinstalling all programs and
data – or finally breaking down and buying a new computer.
Some tech bloggers are claiming that the lack
of an XP upgrade option smells like a payback to the big computer
makers for lost sales caused by Vista, but we really should give
Microsoft the benefit of the doubt on this. It is almost always
better to do a fresh install than an upgrade, and for most computers
old enough to have XP as their native OS, there will be hardware
issues to address as well. So the lack of an upgrade path is
probably for the best in the long run – but it won’t be popular.
You basically have three options for making the
move to Windows 7. Upgrade your existing computer, buy a new
computer and move all your stuff at once or add Windows 7 as a
second OS on your existing machine and move your stuff in a
controlled process. Before we look at these three options in more
detail, it’s important to understand the potential pitfalls involved
in upgrading to WN7 regardless of your current OS.
Be Careful Where You Step
First, don’t be confused by the advertising or
packaging for the upgrade versions of WN7. It may sound like you can
upgrade live from XP but make no mistake about it – it’s going to
make you backup all your stuff and then it’s going to wipe your hard
drive clean.
Next, if you are thinking about making the move
to a 64 bit WN7 system from a 32bit system of Vista, be prepared to
go through the same upgrade process as an XP user. You can’t upgrade
any running 32bit system to a 64bit system without a reformat.
If you have been checking out the trial
versions of the new OS, you should know that you can't upgrade from
a pre-release version of WN7 to the final version of WN7. You'll
also need to do a clean install.
And for you folks with XP who are trying to do
an end run around a reformat – sorry, upgrading from XP to Vista and
then Vista to WN7 won’t work either. We’ve tried it and it involves
so much flakiness and so many random issues that it’s just not worth
the trouble.
Best Options for XP Users
With Windows 7 now out on the market and
getting positive reviews, the end of life as we know it for XP won’t
be far behind. Now the two big questions for XP users are what is
going to be the best option for upgrading and how quickly should it
be done?
Choosing the best option is somewhat
complicated and we will cover that next but deciding when to make
the move is not – you need to start thinking about it right now.
Before you know it staying with XP will bring various little
incompatibility issues with new software, hardware and peripherals.
It will begin like those first few big drops of rain on the leading
edge of a storm then it will turn into a downpour.
Based on the testing and research done by our
1Goal Gear system builder Dave and I, what follows are the three
best options for upgrading to Windows 7. Some of these options may
require assistance if you are not particularly tech savvy, but we
have tried to include only the options that are worth the time and
cost considering the quality of the result.
Change the Diaper on Your Existing
Computer
Like the heading above implies, this option
wipes your hard drive clean and gives you a fresh start with your
existing computer. In short, you just install Windows 7 as a new OS,
replacing XP. Basically there is no good way to accomplish this
option but to reformat your hard drive, load all new drivers, reload
old software and then transfer all your files into the new OS from a
backup. You will find articles on the Internet that advise using the
old Vista migration wizard that is buried in a support folder on the
WN7 install DVD but in our testing it didn’t seem to be worth the
trouble.
If your old computer is up to the task from a
standpoint of hardware, and drivers are available, you might as well
accept the fact and the challenge of a complete re-install of your
stuff. It’s critical that you do the research to verify that drivers
for your computer’s components are available for WN7 and that the
software you use in XP is compatible before you choose this option.
Once that is done it’s just a matter of the time and effort. The
best thing that you can do to make the process easier is to invest
in another hard drive if you don’t already have a second drive in
your computer to use for backups. Hard drives are cheap and if you
don’t want to install a new internal drive, inexpensive portable USB
hard drives big enough to hold all your stuff are available
everywhere.
The Parallel Option
The safest and least stressful way to
accomplish a Windows 7 upgrade on a machine running XP is to install
WN7 in parallel, also known as a dual-boot system. This allows you
to switch as needed between both operating systems each time your
computer starts up.
There are many benefits to this option if the
task setting up a new OS and re-installing all of your stuff in one
shot is problematic due to a busy workload or fear of the unknown.
With the parallel option you have a clean install of WN7 which you
can install applications on and migrate your data into as time
permits, and you still have your old XP system intact which you can
continue to use without interruption for day to day work. When you
have completed the transition to WN7, the old XP drive can be wiped
and used for extra storage and backups.
The down side to this option is that you have
to buy and install another hard drive. You can't have running copies
of XP and Windows 7 on the same hard drive. They have to be on
different partitions, or on completely different physical drives
within the same computer.
Once the new drive is installed you simply
start the computer with the WN7 installation DVD in the DVD ROM
drive and follow the instructions, choosing the new hard drive as
the destination for the new OS to be installed. Nothing is changed
about your old XP setup. Once completed, a dual boot configuration
simply prompts you at the startup screen to choose which operating
system you want to use. You can still access all your files from
either OS.
Some of the tech savvy folks on the blogs might
advise you to repartition your existing drive and install WN7 on the
new partition rather than installing a new drive, but we do not
recommend it. This can be very tricky and if you don’t get it right
you lose all your data. If you do get it right the old XP partition
can have limited use when you do complete the switch to WN7.
The New Computer Option
Another option is to buy a new
computer with Windows 7 pre-installed from the factory. Obviously,
this option also requires that you backup all your stuff and
reinstall it so much of the advice offered in the "diaper change"
option also applies here.
For some of you reading this a new computer will be your only option due to the age of your
existing XP computer. One of the most common misconceptions that I
have heard about WN7 is that it runs better on older computers.
While it’s true that Windows 7 is not as much of a resource hog as
Vista, that’s not saying much in the big picture.
In our testing WN7
only offers a moderate improvement over Vista's resource
requirements and that only applies to relatively new hardware that
is compatible with WN7's new resource management capabilities. WN7 needs much more in
the way of resources than XP to run fast and smoothly. While estimates vary, most of the
studies that have been done by business groups that are trying to
forecast costs for the upgrade within larger companies to WN7 suggest that upwards of 70% of
existing computers running XP will have to be replaced – or the new
OS could be slower than the old one.
The Good News
If you bought a new computer in the last couple
of years you should be able to upgrade it and enjoy the benefits of
Windows 7 without major upgrades to the hardware. All 1Goal Gear
computers are guaranteed to be compatible with WN7 without any
hardware upgrades. The availability of drivers for WN7 as of the
release date is better than any new Windows version we have seen. If you buy a new computer with WN7 - connecting your network,
printers and other external devices will be much easier than ever
before. And best of all, once the upgrade is behind you I’m betting
you’re going to like it allot.
Really Mac, trust me – this time
will be different - no kidding.
Windows 32bit vs. 64bit OS’s
Like any other subject of common conversation, computer technology
has its share of myths, rumors and urban legends in circulation at
any given time. One topic that seems to have the rumor mill
grinding lately is the difference between 32bit and 64bit versions
of the Windows operating system.
The release of Windows 7 has the potential to turn the discussion in
a completely different direction, because WN7 is a completely
different animal in this regard. This will no doubt add to the
confusion that already exists.
This edition of the Tech Corner will attempt to set the record
straight with fact based information about the differences and how
to choose the right OS. But first, let’s put to rest some of the
myths.
Busting the Myths
First and most prevalent is the myth that a 64bit OS is
“future-ware” and of little use in the present day beyond the realm
of high-end gaming since there are very few software applications
that are written for 64bit systems. The fact is that 64bit versions
of the Windows various operating systems have been in use for
several years and there are cases where business computers with
64bit systems are quite useful today. WN7 offers drastic performance
increases with the 64bit version, if you have the hardware to run it
correctly.
Next is the myth that 32bit software will actually run slower on a
64bit OS. This is one of those strange urban legend type myths that
is totally untrue but has a familiar ring to it so it spreads at a
high rate of speed among those that don’t understand the topic –
which would include most business computer users not involved in the
business of I.T. The fact is that software written for a 32bit OS
either runs fine on a 64bit OS or it is incompatible with obvious
issues. Even incompatible software will run fine on a 64bit system
in Vista and WN7 if the built in compatibility protocols are
utilized.
Last, there is a smorgasbord of myths concerning specific benefits
and perils with a 64bit OS on a computer. These myths are usually
based in misinterpretation of facts about how much RAM is used by
various operating systems and how OS’s work with drivers. This is
not surprising, because the facts can be a bit confusing.
For example, many people think only 64bit versions of XP or Vista
can use over 3GB of RAM. This is true for the most part but the
32bit versions of Vista can “recognize” up to 4GB of RAM in the
system, even though no 32bit system can use the extra RAM for system
processes like a 64bit system. Confused? Unless you have an
integrated video device that can share the RAM, 32bit Vista can see
4GB but like XP 32bit it will only use 2.8 GB of the RAM for
computing. 64bit Vista Business can use up to 128GB of RAM, a
ridiculous concept for a workstation since peak usage for even the
most demanding applications rarely exceeds 2GB of RAM. The primary
use for major amounts of RAM is in start up of Windows and programs,
and some other system processes like printing.
64bit systems have the capability of using more RAM and running
faster than 32bit versions but they are unable to accomplish this
feat due to improper or poorly developed drivers. For this reason
certain applications that rely on close integration with hardware
like a video card or peripheral like a printer function poorly or
experience errors with a 64bit system. Even though this is really a
driver issue that isn’t actually related to the 64bit OS, the word
gets around on the blogs that the 64bit OS is the problem since
things seem to work fine in a 32bit system. WN7 is about to change
all that for the better.
So what is the straight story?
It’s really pretty simple. 64bit versions of Windows are an
excellent option where they fit the need, but they are only a fit
for certain circumstances. For the purpose of this article, let’s
assume that we are talking about business workstation computers only
and not servers or computers for recreational or home use. Within
that scope, what follows are the facts about 64bit OS’s for
workstations.
The primary benefits of a 64bit OS are the increased computing
capacity of having twice the bandwidth of data flow, the ability to
use more system memory (RAM) and increased protection against
malware and viruses. The main drawbacks are that there are a limited
number of hardware drivers and virus software applications available
for XP and Vista 64bit systems when compared to 32bit systems. WN7
promises to have a much wider compatibility with drivers than
previous versions. Understanding what these facts actually mean is
the key to making the right choice of OS.
RAM and the 64bit OS
Many people know that a 64bit OS will recognize and use more RAM
than a 32bit OS but they don’t understand the primary function of
RAM in a modern workstation computer. All current versions of
Windows use RAM primarily as a buffer or loading mechanism when
opening or closing the OS or a software application, or processing a
file. This also includes OS functions like saving or processing
files for storage or printing. Once a software application is open
and running the speed at which it runs is primarily dictated by the
horsepower of the processor (CPU) and other system components – not
the amount of RAM.
This buffering process is a function of the Windows operating
system, not the software application or file being loaded, so it
doesn’t matter if the software is designed for a 64bit OS or a 32bit
OS – the increase in speed is still realized – if such an increase
is possible.
Ah, now you may be asking why wouldn’t an increase in speed be
possible?
Answer – if you have a robust, well matched set of hardware in your
workstation currently, the computer may already be loading most
applications and processing files as fast as possible with a 32bit
OS! At a certain threshold of performance the increase in speed
resulting from the ability to use more RAM may be negligible due to
the limitations of how Windows works with hardware in all versions
prior to WN7. Windows 7 has fundamentally changed that aspect of the
OS so 64bit versions of the new OS are much faster than the 32bit
versions – but only if you have the hardware to run it.
Also, all RAM is not the same. The type of RAM that is typically
used in the average desktop computer that you might find in retail
stores costs about 20 bucks for a 1GB stick and it has a capacity
rating for bandwidth and speed that just meets the minimum
requirements of the hardware and OS for that PC. A 1GB stick of high
performance RAM can cost over $100 and have performance capacities
that are exponentially higher than the $20 dollar stick. In terms of
actual performance 2GB of high quality, high speed RAM with a 32bit
OS can actually work better than 4GB of the cheap stuff with a 64bit
OS.
64bit Systems and Software
With the exception of 16bit software (DOS) and older 32bit software
that runs in 32bit Windows by using a 32bit shell over a DOS
application, software compatibility issues with a 64bit OS are
generally limited to virus software and hardware drivers. Almost all
32bit software applications that have been written for Windows XP or
Vista will run fine and load faster (RAM and other hardware
permitting) in a 64bit Windows operating system. If there is a
problem, installing the software to run in compatibility mode
assures that it runs in the 64bit OS just like it would run in a
32bit OS.
Virus software and hardware drivers must be 64bit versions, that is
to say developed specifically for use with a 64bit OS in order to be
compatible. This is due to the fact that bug-ware and drivers
interact with parts of Windows that applications like design
software or a word processor never use.
As always, there are certain exceptions to the rule. Some software
applications rely on specific hardware drivers to function
correctly, and those applications can have issues with a 64bit OS.
Most applications that fall into that category are recreational in
nature or non-essential for business. Examples might include music
software like I-Tunes or software for a Bluetooth headset or mouse.
Cheap discount rack software or shareware apps that are the product
of low quality or non-standard programming practices may also have
problems running in a 64bit OS.
We have extensively tested quality software applications like MS
Office and CV Solid in 64bit systems and found no issues at all.
64bit Systems and Hardware
Most conventional drivers for quality mainstream hardware such as
video cards, motherboards, network adapters, printers, keyboards and
mice are readily available for 64bit versions of Windows. Once again
there are exceptions. New multifunction printer-scanner devices and
trendy new Bluetooth devices may not have drivers for 64bit
applications even though they are quality products. Handheld devices
like smart phones and PDA’s may also lack software versions to
connect to a 64bit system. Software to connect digital cameras and
drivers for memory stick readers may also have compatibility issues.
This depends on market demand and the diligence of the hardware
manufacturer in developing software and drivers and varies from one
brand to the next.
64bit Systems and Virus Protection
The security benefits of a 64bit OS gets pretty technical in the
details but the short story is that a computer running a 64bit
version of Windows has certain additional protection against
malicious or rouge software intrusion that is not possible in a
32bit OS. Many modern CPU’s have a type of protection built right
into the hardware called DEP that will only function in a 64bit OS.
Also, the 64bit versions of Vista protect the Windows Kernel (one of
the most critical parts of the OS) from any modification by viruses
or unauthorized software updates by drivers or programs. Not a big
deal for most users but it’s a plus nonetheless.
Windows 7 Changes Everything
The trial versions of Windows 7 64bit that we have tested have been
remarkably stable and compatible – far beyond any previous version
of Windows. This is because WN7 has finally dealt with the issues
that existed in previous versions regarding the use of hardware.
Until WN7 the Windows OS was years behind the hardware that has been
available in the market. WN7 makes use of modern technology in
hardware while providing new levels of software compatibility that
are long overdue.
Making the Decision
Speaking in the broadest terms, if you have a quality high
performance desktop or notebook workstation that is relatively
current technology you can probably update to a 64bit OS without
major issues – but you probably don’t need to unless you are going
to upgrade to WN7. If you are using a computer that is up to the
task of running your business and manufacturing software
applications now, the time and effort required to update to a 64bit
version of older versions of Windows probably won’t be worth the
minimal increase in overall performance.
Over the course of several years of bench testing we have rarely
seen any business or manufacturing software application max out the
system resources of the computers that we build and sell here at
1Goal with 32bit versions of Windows. Running applications on a
single user workstation only needs so much horsepower and anything
over and above that is just folly for bragging rights.
But we have sold lots of computers with older 64bit OS’s when that
type of system was called for. For example, due to the speed
constraints caused by heat management in laptops we have found that
64bit operating systems provide significant performance improvements
with mobile computing technology over the 32bit versions. Also, we
always suggest a 64bit OS for the dedicated CV Solid servers and
server/workstation desktop machines that we build. This is due to
the fact that multiple users accessing programs and files on the
same machine can benefit from the 64bit OS’s ability to use of
larger amounts of RAM much more than a single user workstation.
If you can see the need for a 64bit OS now that you have the facts
then you might as well give it a go, but before updating an existing
machine or ordering a new computer with a 64bit OS you just need to
do some simple homework and you will avoid all problems. Verify that
your virus software makes a version for 64bit systems and that
compatible drivers are available for all your hardware and
peripherals and then plan accordingly. You will want to backup
everything before upgrading an existing system.
Here is one other tip. Hard drives are cheap. You might consider
adding another hard drive to your new or existing system and setting
up a dual boot machine. That gives you the ability to run your
business software in the faster 64bit system and still boot to the
old 32bit system for playing I-Tunes and rocking out with that
Bluetooth headset that you love.
We always welcome your questions about computers for your business.
Just give us a call or send an email and we will be happy to help.
Download this article in PDF format - Click Here
Tips to keep your computer running fast and
trouble-free.
| Daily |
Weekly |
Monthly |
Yearly |
|
Update your virus
and spyware definitions: |
Perform a full
spyware and virus scan: |
Update your
programs: |
Clean out your PC
case: |
It is essential to keep antivirus
software
up-to-date because viruses spread within hours. |
Scheduling a total scan regularly can
find anything damaging that is hiding in your system.
Try Bit Defender if you don't have a good one. |
Check for vendors' software updates to
make your applications more stable. |
The case collects dust therefore fans can
become clogged. Use a vacuum cleaner or soft air
pressure to carefully clean out the case. |
|
Do an incremental
backup: |
Do a complete
backup: |
Check for new
drivers: |
Clean-up your
programs: |
It's not only quick, it's easy, to make a
copy
of files that have changed since your last full backup. |
If your drive fails, a backup of all your
data will help you recover your information. |
To help stabilize and speed up your PC
install the latest drivers for your devices. |
Make a full backup and use the restore CD
to return your system to its original state. |
|
When programs crash
reboot your system: |
Run Windows Update: |
Use a one-click
utility-suite checkup program: |
Do a full diagnostic
check: |
Restart your system after every crash to
clear it out. Failed applications can cause other
programs to falter. |
From the shortcut on the "start menu"
obtain the latest patches from Microsoft to secure your
system. |
To give your PC a thorough checkup use a
utility suite on one CD, with one interface.
|
Use a diagnostic program to test your
equipment and track down faulty components before they
completely fail. |
We build custom,
special order computer equipment for manufacturing.
|
