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Technical News & Discussion => Windows News & Discussion => Topic started by: pctech on Oct 26, 2012, 10:41:31

Title: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Oct 26, 2012, 10:41:31
I had some Windows 8 familiarisation training yesterday (I downloaded the ISO of the preview but never managed to get round to installing and playing with it)

Personally I think its hideous and looks exactly what they've tried to do, an OS for all platforms.

I think I shall be kept quite busy.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Oct 26, 2012, 16:06:08
There's a lot riding on Windows 8, PC sales are well down, MS need to make a success of this release. They need to make a big inroad into the Tablet market, it's potentially a life saver. Competition is of course good for the consumer, I hate to think that Google may become the dominant force in computing.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: zappaDPJ on Oct 26, 2012, 16:49:13
How successful Windows 8 is going to be is really hard to predict. Even the reviewers are not really sure about it and I guess a lot of that comes down to fairly radical interface. It's great on a touch screen and it's fast but I have a few reservations about it. The two layered nature of it is very apparent on a conventional desktop and takes some getting used to. I find it a bit of a pain having to switch back and forth to be honest. I'm still considering whether or not to install it on my PC. I need to upgrade my primary drive to a larger SSD so now would be the ideal time to upgrade/reinstall it but I'm having some doubts about it.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Oct 26, 2012, 17:46:43
I'm installing it tonight on my old computer and will see how I get on with it. I thought that this is the safest way to go and will give me a chance to learn and see if I like it. At the moment the down load is up to 48% with about 15mins to go. I will report back later  :fingers:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Rik on Oct 26, 2012, 17:49:51
We'll be waiting, Den.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Oct 26, 2012, 18:21:44
Me and everyone thats been on the familiarisation training thinks the same, its going to be terrific on tablets but not so good on desktops and laptops with no touch or pen support.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Tacitus on Oct 26, 2012, 19:21:14
Quote from: pctech on Oct 26, 2012, 18:21:44
Me and everyone thats been on the familiarisation training thinks the same, its going to be terrific on tablets but not so good on desktops and laptops with no touch or pen support.

Oddly enough this Mac and iPad user agrees - v good on a tablet but mediocre on a desktop/laptop.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Oct 26, 2012, 20:30:57
Quote from: Den on Oct 26, 2012, 17:46:43
I'm installing it tonight on my old computer and will see how I get on with it. I thought that this is the safest way to go and will give me a chance to learn and see if I like it. At the moment the down load is up to 48% with about 15mins to go. I will report back later  :fingers:
Please don't rush it. We'd all like to live past 2012!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Oct 26, 2012, 21:09:44
I expected after all the negative press to hate it. But so far I am pleasantly surprised, the only thing that stumped me for a while was how to turn it off  ;D

It seems to be very quick and well laid out. I am going to use it on the spare computer for a while and really put it through it's paces, then again I like learning so I have had a great evening with W8.  :swoon:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: FritzBox on Oct 27, 2012, 08:20:08
Might stick it on the netbook at some stage
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 27, 2012, 15:35:35
You can help me Den! I have until the end of January to return my new laptop if I don't like it, but I will not be beaten!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: wecpcs on Oct 27, 2012, 20:33:53
Quote from: Den on Oct 26, 2012, 21:09:44
I expected after all the negative press to hate it. But so far I am pleasantly surprised, the only thing that stumped me for a while was how to turn it off  ;D

It seems to be very quick and well laid out. I am going to use it on the spare computer for a while and really put it through it's paces, then again I like learning so I have had a great evening with W8.  :swoon:

I agree that it is better than I expected and certainly seems a lot faster. I did the upgrade route (unusually for me), as I had only re-installed Windows 7 a few weeks earlier after I totally screwed it by hacking the registry and my Windows Home Server V1 could not do a Bare Metal Restore because my new PC has UEFI/GPT technology. It could back up OK but not restore, which I was totally unaware of until crunch time, but at least all my data was retrievable from within the backups. Still waiting for the update which should be coming for WHS2011 which I have bought earlier but not using it yet which is supposed to rectify the problem otherwise it means buying Windows Server 2012 Essentials which is totally OTT and will be very expensive at $425. I have tried the preview version and it does work OK but rather more complicated than WHS V1.

Windows 8 has given me a few problems one due to the fact that I let it do my MS logon (supposedly to make it easier to access all MS sites) instead of my normal one, but it gave me major hassle trying to access my Home Server Shares so I had to change it back. There is also a FREE offer at the moment for a limited time to download the Media Centre, which was left out but only obtainable if you have the PRO version, which seems rather strange. I am getting used to it and most of the time it stays on the normal desktop as I am used to, which looks almost the same as Windows 7 (except no Start button).

Colin
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Oct 27, 2012, 23:37:19
Yep had that issue when I reinstalled Win 7 which told me to delete the GPT partition then it set up a new one.

There's a good video on Youtube where a trainer from one of the IT training companies in the states gives an introduction to GPT (GUID Partition Table), if I find it again I'll post the link.
#
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Oct 28, 2012, 07:22:13
I might need help with that kind of thing too. Currently failing to mirror a HP laptop to a new drive as it fails to find/boot the recovery partition after mirroring (boots the OS, then dies after a restart even on the new drive, recovery partition is only accessible on the old drive. Gah!)  :bawl:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Oct 28, 2012, 08:23:16
 Windows 7 x64 has EFI/ GPT partition support as well, obviously you need the EFI motherboard support and is sometimes not straightforward.


http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_7-windows_install/how-to-clean-install-windows-7-professional-64-bit/c052117c-8faa-4b5b-bd31-30bb9b21a0eb
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Oct 28, 2012, 14:01:36
It is odd not seeing a start button though  :-\
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Oct 28, 2012, 14:20:43
You get used to it, I've not had one for awhile. ;)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Oct 28, 2012, 15:31:51
I just let a family member use my laptop and the first question they asked was, "how do you shutdown"  :laugh:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Oct 28, 2012, 17:27:52
Windows 8 the "undead" OS, it never goes away. Was that what they are suggesting having it released so close to Halloween?
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Oct 28, 2012, 21:12:34
More like the stoned OS as whoever designed that interface must have been on drugs.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Oct 28, 2012, 23:26:37
As I'm using it more and more, I'm actually liking it, its different.

Now waiting for Acronis 2012 to be updated so I can upgrade my main PC.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Oct 29, 2012, 13:21:03
I was so pleased with W8 on my old computer that I bit the bullet last night and installed it on my main one. Then it all went wrong, at first it said Bullguard could not be activated then it could. Then it would not accept my printer and then it started rebooting with error TCPIP.SYS. After playing around for a while it started working OK. This morning when I turned it on all was well and then after a couple of hours it commenced restarting again with the error TCPIP.SYS .
It's now running OK again, any thoughts what it could be? The only thing I can see different is on my old machine I am using windows own security and on this one I am using Bullguard.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: zappaDPJ on Oct 29, 2012, 13:52:35
I believe that's the Windows TCP/IP Driver which might explain the printer issues. I'm no expert in this area but I think it's not uncommon for tcpip.sys to get modified by all manner of means including virus infection so I would first check that you have a legitimate unmodified version. Perhaps compare it with the file in your other device? A typical path would be C:/Windows/System32/drivers
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Oct 29, 2012, 16:36:52
I installed my legally bought windows 8 upgrade and it is very fast and easy to use, up to a point.  The lack of a start button on the task bar does limit thingslightly.  I did a frsh install but found that it lost the cd and also a hard drive, proe3viously i did an complete upgrade and it went ok but put the boot secotr on another hard drive.  This time I will do a full upgrade and watch where things go.

I think I will learn to like this OS as the start page is very effective and customizable.  Tomorrow is when I try the new upgrade (again)) I am jsut doing a complet re-install of windows 7 firts as a fresh system might work better.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Oct 29, 2012, 17:16:33
I wonder what user groups with special requirements (GUI etc) will make of it?
Personally, I'll probably learn a bit of it but skip a copy and get Win9 instead. As this seems to be the vista to Windows 7 (good intentions under the hood, bad application. Just tried Vista recently, and it does not even shut down properly. :P But windows 7 on the other hand is practically identical, just setup better).
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: zappaDPJ on Oct 29, 2012, 17:28:15
I think more than any software release, the success or failure of Windows 8 is completely unpredictable. However it does to some extent depend on what criteria you use to judge success. For example, Microsoft shifted 20 million copies of Vista within a month of release. I'm still completely undecided whether to upgrade of not.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Oct 29, 2012, 17:51:30
Here's a list off all the shortcut keys you can use :

http://blogs.msdn.com/b/hyperyash/archive/2012/08/28/windows-8-shortcuts.aspx
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Oct 29, 2012, 17:52:38
Perhaps MS should become a tad more restrictive on the hardware that a new OS will install on, in my ignorance how can you progress an OS when you commit to supporting hardware that's been around for a long long time, XP was the ultimate OS for a 1Ghz processor and 2Gb ram and yet MS is still trying support this with Windows 8. Is this not just 'window dressing ' or new paint.  I'm encouraged by their desire to get into the touchscreen and/or tablet market and I hope they make a success of it.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Oct 29, 2012, 18:08:51
It's nothing to do with the hardware Steve. It's the software. What do you think needs to change on the hardware front?
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Oct 29, 2012, 18:37:46
My question is - Are MS restricting the progress of future OS developments i.e. Windows 8 by committing to support hardware that's been around for at least 10 years.  Or am I missing something in the fact that Windows 8 on a 1Ghz 2Gb RAM machine is radically different from the same OS on the latest spec. OK I guess its faster with better graphics on the higher spec but is it a different OS and user experience on the higher spec machine.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Oct 29, 2012, 19:38:57
I uninstalled Bullguard and so far W8 has not rebooted (since 12noon). I will see how things go and I might reinstall Bullguard later.  :fingers:  Otherwise W8 runs really well and is even faster than W7.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Oct 29, 2012, 21:03:14
Quote from: Steve on Oct 29, 2012, 18:37:46
My question is - Are MS restricting the progress of future OS developments i.e. Windows 8 by committing to support hardware that's been around for at least 10 years.  Or am I missing something in the fact that Windows 8 on a 1Ghz 2Gb RAM machine is radically different from the same OS on the latest spec. OK I guess its faster with better graphics on the higher spec but is it a different OS and user experience on the higher spec machine.
AFAIK Steve, speed makes little difference to the OS's ability to function. There are nice features some hardware can use (suspension modes, quick booting/file loading ect). But AFAIK none of it is required, it's all optional. They can choose not to make it run on a 1GHZ but, think about it, why would people buy a new OS? If MS cannot come up with a feature people need, then customers will stick with the perfectly functional XP. For example, a typewriter is a typewriter, as long as it works. :)

If there is a really powerful feature that uses a lot of CPU power or RAM space in windows 8 or some future product, I've not heard of it.  :dunno:
Look at some of the linux Distros, they can run on 300mhz PCs with 64mb ram/HDD space. :P
I guess it's like cars, no one actually goes around driving at 150mph, and who would need a 250mph engine? So the savings and improvements are put in better MPG, more comfy ride or cheaper production etc. I think the same is happening to PCs and OSs. Take laptops and Tablets for example. Things have gone backwards with CPU speed to some degree, but more use out of the OS running on them (iOS for example ran on a 1GHz, but got more use than most Windows 2000 or some XP machines get :P ).
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 06:38:44
Quote from: Den on Oct 29, 2012, 13:21:03
I was so pleased with W8 on my old computer that I bit the bullet last night and installed it on my main one. Then it all went wrong, at first it said Bullguard could not be activated then it could. Then it would not accept my printer and then it started rebooting with error TCPIP.SYS. After playing around for a while it started working OK. This morning when I turned it on all was well and then after a couple of hours it commenced restarting again with the error TCPIP.SYS .
It's now running OK again, any thoughts what it could be? The only thing I can see different is on my old machine I am using windows own security and on this one I am using Bullguard.

http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/compatibility/win8/CompatCenter/ProductViewerWithDefaultFilters?TempOsid=win8&Locale=en-us&TextSearch=bullguard&Type=Both&CurrentPage=0&TotalPages=1&ShowCriteria=0&SortCriteria=Relevance&Compatibility=Unknown&LastRequested=14
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Oct 30, 2012, 07:38:17
Thanks Jill, mine is version 12  ::)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 07:41:24
 :thumb:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Oct 30, 2012, 07:43:15
Quote from: Den on Oct 29, 2012, 13:21:03
I was so pleased with W8 on my old computer that I bit the bullet last night and installed it on my main one. Then it all went wrong, at first it said Bullguard could not be activated then it could. Then it would not accept my printer and then it started rebooting with error TCPIP.SYS. After playing around for a while it started working OK. This morning when I turned it on all was well and then after a couple of hours it commenced restarting again with the error TCPIP.SYS .
It's now running OK again, any thoughts what it could be? The only thing I can see different is on my old machine I am using windows own security and on this one I am using Bullguard.
Windows 8 comes with its own AV built in I thought, Den.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 07:59:35
Windows Defender I think, I use it and Avast.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Oct 30, 2012, 08:27:49
Quote from: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 07:59:35
Windows Defender I think, I use it and Avast.
Windows 8 comes with its own anti virus application - Windows Defender. There is no need for a third party anti virus application.

http://www.lockergnome.com/news/2012/09/01/windows-8-antivirus-is-it-necessary/


I think that windows defender is a full blown AV, J!ll it incorporates Microsoft security essentials, in which case you would need to disable it to stop conflicts unless I'm missing something, which is possible  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 08:31:57
I've had no conflicts yet, not on this machine  :laugh: My new laptop when it arrives has McAfee Internet Security trial, so I'm not sure what I will use yet. You may not see me for some time!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Oct 30, 2012, 08:35:30
Quote from: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 08:31:57
I've had no conflicts yet, not on this machine  :laugh: My new laptop when it arrives has McAfee Internet Security trial, so I'm not sure what I will use yet. You may not see me for some time!  :laugh:
I imagine then that Avast switches off Security essentials, tbh the laptop I had with Windows on it ran well with Microsoft's own AV no need for a third party one. I wonder how many people realise though that Windows 8 comes with antivirus built in compared to windows 7 when you could download security essentials for free from Microsoft.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 08:53:39
Then why does mine have a trial version? it's almost saying you need something else! but yes I agree with you. Will wait and see when mine arrives and let you know, if I can find anything  :laugh:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 08:59:01
This is for Windows 8


http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/compatibility/win8/CompatCenter/ProductViewerWithUpdatedFilters?TempOsid=win8&Type=Software&ProductCategory=Security&ProductSubcategory=Antivirus&CurrentPage=0&TotalPages=26&SortCriteria=Relevance&ShowCriteria=0&Compatibility=DoesNotWork&LastRequested=10&Locale=en-us
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Oct 30, 2012, 09:02:07
Quote from: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 08:59:01
This is for Windows 8


http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/compatibility/win8/CompatCenter/ProductViewerWithUpdatedFilters?TempOsid=win8&Type=Software&ProductCategory=Security&ProductSubcategory=Antivirus&CurrentPage=0&TotalPages=26&SortCriteria=Relevance&ShowCriteria=0&Compatibility=DoesNotWork&LastRequested=10&Locale=en-us
Windows has to offer other AV's otherwise it would upset other vendors and also become a monopoly, but according to all the blurb I have read security essentials is now built in so a third party AV is not really needed unless you want to replace the built in one.

http://www.pcworld.com/article/259876/antivirus_on_windows_8_looking_at_your_options.html
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 09:09:06
Thanks, read that yesterday. No I don't want to replace anything! otherwise I will get in a mess  :laugh: I have a lot to learn as I'm running WinXP so things are going to look very different.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Oct 30, 2012, 09:13:14
Quote from: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 09:09:06
Thanks, read that yesterday. No I don't want to replace anything! otherwise I will get in a mess  :laugh: I have a lot to learn as I'm running WinXP so things are going to look very different.
Looks like a bit of a learning curve from XP, but I enjoy that myself and I imagine it wont take long to master, its also being touted as the most secure version yet which is good too. Have fun. ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 09:16:47
I can't wait!  :laugh: I've had this desktop for 7 years so need a new one, but decided since our move to a smaller house it had to be a laptop.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Oct 30, 2012, 09:21:06
Quote from: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 08:53:39
Then why does mine have a trial version? it's almost saying you need something else! but yes I agree with you. Will wait and see when mine arrives and let you know, if I can find anything  :laugh:
The first hit is always free.  :laugh:  :o
They put "trial" versions of everything under the sun on a new PC/laptop in the hope you/we/people will buy something. Really, 99% of it is not needed. I guess it is still relatively new for MS to do their own Virus scanner, but free ones have been around for around 10 years at least now.

My opinion? Stick to free virus scanner, because if they give you trouble, it's free to try another! Paid for ones your stuck with if they break. :/
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 09:23:51
Yes think I will, don't want to break a new laptop do I.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Oct 30, 2012, 09:34:20
That's the only think I don't like about windows laptops is the bloatware, I wonder if the 'surface' will come laden with all that too.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Oct 30, 2012, 10:02:08
Quote from: Gary on Oct 30, 2012, 08:27:49Windows 8 comes with its own anti virus application - Windows Defender. There is no need for a third party anti virus application

About time too.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Oct 30, 2012, 10:35:34
Quote from: Simon on Oct 30, 2012, 10:02:08
About time too.
With windows 7 you could just download Security Essentials and it became pretty much what you see in Windows 8. Works well, after using it I cant really see the point in huge bloated paid for security suits. The trouble is with new computers the manufactures have deals with Symantec and the like, so you end up with bloatware you don't need. I detest how much cr@p comes on laptops tbh   >:(
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Oct 30, 2012, 11:06:58
Indeed, and once something like Norton has been installed, although the uninstallation of these suites has got better, it's still difficult to remove all traces of it. 
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 12:00:57
Quote from: Gary on Oct 30, 2012, 09:34:20
That's the only think I don't like about windows laptops is the bloatware, I wonder if the 'surface' will come laden with all that too.

:dunno: this is the software installed on it.
              Adobe Flash Player 10.3
              Internet Explorer 9
              McAfee Internet Security trial
              Acer clear.fi
              Skype

Will have fun removing stuff I don't want/use.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Oct 30, 2012, 12:55:42
If you miss the start button / menu and/or can't get on with the new start screen, you can install a program called "Start8" from here : http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/

This will give you the start menu back as well as other advanced options like booting straight to desktop.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Oct 30, 2012, 14:34:33
Quote from: Gary on Oct 30, 2012, 09:34:20
That's the only think I don't like about windows laptops is the bloatware, I wonder if the 'surface' will come laden with all that too.
Yep. Done a fresh instal over the weekend for someone. The junk on it I needed to deactivate just to get to a normal screen was ridiculous. It actually got it's self stuck in a loop. Only 2 or so years old, but of cause the company changed their website location. So the first boot up it checks for their page, loads up IE and then gets a "page does not exist error", mean while the "greetings and help assistance software" notices the error, and tries again. Que a couple of hundred IE windows opening and a dash for Ctrl Alt Delete to kill the process that's calling up the website, and I'm unsure who to put against the wall first. The programmers, or the manager for asking for such a "feature" in the first place.  ::)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 14:42:55
Quote from: psp83 on Oct 30, 2012, 12:55:42
If you miss the start button / menu and/or can't get on with the new start screen, you can install a program called "Start8" from here : http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/

This will give you the start menu back as well as other advanced options like booting straight to desktop.


:thumb: I'm sure I will miss the start button! so thanks for that.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Oct 30, 2012, 14:53:51
You've done well if it's not got too much junk on it Jill. :)

The one I just fixed even pops up asking if you want to buy the internet of AOL.  :slap:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Oct 30, 2012, 15:20:46
The good news is MS seem to have retained the ACPI power button function support so you can set the power button on the machine to start a normal orderly shut down when pressed.

On the keyboard I have I also have a key labelled power that when pressed does exactly the same thing.

Have the same keyboard at work now and its my favourite key on that keyboard.  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 15:22:43
Quote from: Technical Ben on Oct 30, 2012, 14:53:51
You've done well if it's not got too much junk on it Jill. :)

The one I just fixed even pops up asking if you want to buy the internet of AOL.  :slap:

:laugh: AOL

Well I dare say it will have games on it that I don't want and many other things! I will see how I manage before I try and break anything!  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 15:29:19
Quote from: pctech on Oct 30, 2012, 15:20:46
The good news is MS seem to have retained the ACPI power button function support so you can set the power button on the machine to start a normal orderly shut down when pressed.

On the keyboard I have I also have a key labelled power that when pressed does exactly the same thing.

Have the same keyboard at work now and its my favourite key on that keyboard.  ;D

:thumb:

I had put this on my new toy thread  :laugh: Windows Key-I — This pops up the new system tray, which slides in from the right. If you hit Space or Enter, the Metro control panel opens. If you hit Up then Enter, you can shut down the computer. (This is the fastest way to shut down or restart!)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Oct 30, 2012, 15:34:38
I'm back at work tomorrow for the first time since Friday and I expect a lot of people will have picked up new PCs/laptops over the weekend and early in the week.

I expect our remote assistance solution will get a lot of use over the coming weeks
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Oct 30, 2012, 15:41:45
I bet they will! I will just struggle on my own  >:D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Oct 30, 2012, 17:18:04
Quote from: pctech on Oct 30, 2012, 15:34:38
I'm back at work tomorrow for the first time since Friday and I expect a lot of people will have picked up new PCs/laptops over the weekend and early in the week.

I expect our remote assistance solution will get a lot of use over the coming weeks
You know the best thing about Windows 8 and remote assistance? No going "press the start, I mean swipe the button" responded after 15 mins later "It's not working, do I need a touch screen to get my finger to move it?".
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Oct 30, 2012, 19:08:44
I have come across one problem that seems pretty widespread.  It seems that some sata dvd drives are not picked up by windows 8 and ther eis no work around that is universal.  I supppose I will just have to buy a usb dvd rather than muck about with sourcing a new ide dvd read/write drive. :)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Oct 30, 2012, 21:48:32
Really? That's pretty basic functionality. I guess they are trying to hint that they want people to drop optical disks... nah, just coincidence. :P
Keep the SATA one, it should work as Win 8 is win 7 under the hood AFAIK. Although, a mini DVD external drive comes in handy for Netbooks.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Oct 31, 2012, 18:29:08
They want you to run everything from Azure (their cloud platform) as they must recover the billions they spent on those data centres.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Glenn on Oct 31, 2012, 20:38:46
If anyone is thinking of buying the W8 upgrade from Microsoft, go via Quidco for a 15% cashback http://www.quidco.com/microsoft-store/?ac
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Polchraine on Nov 01, 2012, 12:47:19

Having read this and other real user comments I will confirm my new laptop order with Win 7 - with a free/cheap Win 8 upgrade pack.   But it leaves on question ...  Win 7 in 32 or 64 bit config?   It will generally be used for MS Office Applications including Visio along with various image processing apps.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Nov 01, 2012, 13:00:30
if it has 4gb RAM or more you will need 64bit to use it all. 32bit only see's 3.5gb

I would chose 64bit anyways, I've been using win7 64bit since it came out and no problems.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 01, 2012, 13:55:38
I'd agree. For those with existing hardware, no point in an upgrade. New hardware it's practically a necessity.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Nov 01, 2012, 20:36:21
I downloaded Bullguard Security V13 tonight and it loaded straight away (more than v12 did) and seems to run very well in W8. All my settings were intact and the system has not crashed once.  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Nov 02, 2012, 13:31:03
 :thumb:   :fingers:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Nov 02, 2012, 23:05:29
4GB or more will make Win 7 work much more fluidly so 64-bit is a must.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Nov 03, 2012, 00:06:52
Quote from: pctech on Nov 02, 2012, 23:05:29
4GB or more will make Win 7 work much more fluidly so 64-bit is a must.

Not true, I have Win7 running on an old machine with 2GB RAM & 32bit and it's fluid, no slow downs/lag.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 03, 2012, 07:14:56
I'll say it depends PSP. If just for internet ect, 2gb is ok (it's what I put in this rig to begin with). But 4gb helps for things like movie making, games etc.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Nov 03, 2012, 09:23:36
Quote from: Technical Ben on Nov 03, 2012, 07:14:56
I'll say it depends PSP. If just for internet ect, 2gb is ok (it's what I put in this rig to begin with). But 4gb helps for things like movie making, games etc.
I would agree, even Macs now come with 8Gb as standard, it allows you to do more demanding tasks without page outs as well.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 03, 2012, 11:45:57
Considering it's usually only £15 extra, it's defiantly worth it for another stick! :) (You'll not nice £15 extra CPU power, but will the extra ram)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Nov 03, 2012, 13:04:20
For gaming and video processing, true, 4GB +

But for everyday stuff like internet, word etc, 2GB is fine on Win7.

I always go 8GB min on my computers now, this one I'm using has 8GB as I've always got adobe products open, VM's etc. But I'm planning on upgrading this machine to 12GB & a SSD
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Glenn on Nov 03, 2012, 15:36:38
Windows 8 for Dummies (http://media.wiley.com/assets/7077/60/9781118554951_custom.pdf) - Free
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Nov 03, 2012, 15:40:47
Thanks Glenn I've got the Windows 8 preview release running on a VM I'm having trouble finding/doing anything at all but then again I am a Mac and part time XP user  so one should not expect too much >:D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Nov 03, 2012, 17:01:14
Now learning to love windows 8.  I have 64 bit version with 4Gb memory and a 1gb graphics card so 32 bit would not be a great benefit in using all 5Gb memory.  It runs very quickly and having lots of fun learning my way around.  It is also very productive with my writing and graphical work.  Not as straightforward as windows 7 pro but the extra use of bitlocking for all drives is very useful.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Nov 03, 2012, 19:08:29
I like it too! it's different  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Nov 03, 2012, 21:00:57
Well that's three votes for then. You are not allowed to vote if you have not installed the full W8 version though.  ;)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 03, 2012, 22:41:51
Hey. That's no fair! I can live with not getting a say in it anyway. :P
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: wecpcs on Nov 03, 2012, 22:45:27
Quote from: Glenn on Nov 03, 2012, 15:36:38
Windows 8 for Dummies (http://media.wiley.com/assets/7077/60/9781118554951_custom.pdf) - Free

I had a quick look and found several errors on page 16 regarding Local Accounts which is entirely incorrect. I was using the MS sign in originally but had problems with accessing my Windows Home Server Shares no matter what permissions were set, so I had to resort to the Local account and you CAN still run all the Start screen Apps including the Mail app as well as the store App, but if you want to purchase anything that is not free then all you do is sign-in. As I always hibernate my PC and have logged in to the MS services at least once, I never have to re-enter my details unless I have to reboot my PC. So I am not really going to trust this guide at all if they cannot get even simple things correct.

Colin

PS I love it as well
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Nov 03, 2012, 23:57:32
Currently having a weird problem with Chrome on Win8.

I've uninstalled it via the control panel and it said it was uninstalled and no longer showing in the uninstall program list.

But the tile is still there on the start screen and when I click it, takes me back to the desktop and loads Chrome  ???

When I right click on the tile in the start screen and select uninstall, it takes me back to the desktop and loads uninstall program window, but again, chrome is not in the list.

:comp:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Nov 04, 2012, 06:35:36
Quote from: Den on Nov 03, 2012, 21:00:57
Well that's three votes for then. You are not allowed to vote if you have not installed the full W8 version though.  ;)

New laptop  :P   >:D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Nov 04, 2012, 07:07:27
Quote from: psp83 on Nov 03, 2012, 23:57:32
Currently having a weird problem with Chrome on Win8.

I've uninstalled it via the control panel and it said it was uninstalled and no longer showing in the uninstall program list.

But the tile is still there on the start screen and when I click it, takes me back to the desktop and loads Chrome  ???

When I right click on the tile in the start screen and select uninstall, it takes me back to the desktop and loads uninstall program window, but again, chrome is not in the list.

:comp:


It uninstalls ok on the Windows 8 preview release.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Nov 04, 2012, 07:47:19
Quote from: psp83 on Nov 03, 2012, 23:57:32
Currently having a weird problem with Chrome on Win8.

I've uninstalled it via the control panel and it said it was uninstalled and no longer showing in the uninstall program list.

But the tile is still there on the start screen and when I click it, takes me back to the desktop and loads Chrome  ???

When I right click on the tile in the start screen and select uninstall, it takes me back to the desktop and loads uninstall program window, but again, chrome is not in the list.

:comp:
Not sure if this may help but it looks to fit your issue. http://code.google.com/p/chromium/issues/detail?id=140972
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 04, 2012, 07:52:03
Quote from: psp83 on Nov 03, 2012, 23:57:32
Currently having a weird problem with Chrome on Win8.

I've uninstalled it via the control panel and it said it was uninstalled and no longer showing in the uninstall program list.

But the tile is still there on the start screen and when I click it, takes me back to the desktop and loads Chrome  ???

When I right click on the tile in the start screen and select uninstall, it takes me back to the desktop and loads uninstall program window, but again, chrome is not in the list.

:comp:
I'm guessing 2 desktops = 2 environments = 2 versions of Chrome (app/metro and program/desktop) and 2 uninstall control panels and 2 times you need to instal.
So your asking why I don't like Win 8 again?
I might just use windows 7 and an Android emulator on startup, and pretend I have Windows8 :D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Nov 04, 2012, 09:07:32
Surely that's Chrome's fault not Windows 8. What I don't know is when you install Chrome whether it installs both parts ie the Metro app and the traditional desktop version at the same time.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Nov 04, 2012, 09:26:51
Quote from: Steve on Nov 04, 2012, 09:07:32
Surely that's Chrome's fault not Windows 8. What I don't know is when you install Chrome whether it installs both parts ie the Metro app and the traditional desktop version at the same time.
Well its not like Google have not had enough time to get it right with the access they have had to windows 8 before release, although I'm sure there will be teething problems as they cant test on every configuration of computer windows 8 will be on.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 04, 2012, 12:46:37
Quote from: Steve on Nov 04, 2012, 09:07:32
Surely that's Chrome's fault not Windows 8. What I don't know is when you install Chrome whether it installs both parts ie the Metro app and the traditional desktop version at the same time.
Having 2 seperate unrelated control panels, with no way for Metro apps to communicate with non-metro apps (thus segregation of the PC software space etc) is hardly Googles fault. Granted, Google can make a mess up themselves, and are probably partially to blame for the uninstaller.

PS, I know some of that is hyperbole, and MS did fix the IE bookmarks so they now migrate between the two (still totally different code bases/programs) versions of IE in Win 8.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Nov 04, 2012, 14:02:11
Quote from: Gary on Nov 04, 2012, 07:47:19
Not sure if this may help but it looks to fit your issue. http://code.google.com/p/chromium/issues/detail?id=140972

Thanks, I'll read it a bit later.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Nov 04, 2012, 14:03:09
Quote from: Steve on Nov 04, 2012, 09:07:32
Surely that's Chrome's fault not Windows 8. What I don't know is when you install Chrome whether it installs both parts ie the Metro app and the traditional desktop version at the same time.

The latest version of Chrome does have a metro and desktop version. Metro version only works when Chrome is your default browser though.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Nov 04, 2012, 14:04:24
Quote from: Technical Ben on Nov 04, 2012, 07:52:03
I'm guessing 2 desktops = 2 environments = 2 versions of Chrome (app/metro and program/desktop) and 2 uninstall control panels and 2 times you need to instal.
So your asking why I don't like Win 8 again?
I might just use windows 7 and an Android emulator on startup, and pretend I have Windows8 :D

I don't think that is the issue here, when I try to uninstall the metro version is takes me to the "uninstall program" window on the desktop.. and when clicking the metro version of Chrome, it loads the desktop version, even though its uninstalled  :laugh:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 04, 2012, 22:55:18
I don't blame Google if they decide to pull out of windows 8 entirely for being to stupidly complicated then. :D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Nov 05, 2012, 14:27:10
Google need better programers with a bit of vision and lateral thinking.  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 05, 2012, 18:58:05
Or crossed eyes. ;)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Nov 05, 2012, 19:59:23
Quote from: Technical Ben on Nov 05, 2012, 18:58:05
Or crossed eyes. ;)

No you cross the t's and dot the eyes.  ::) ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Nov 05, 2012, 20:23:38
I hate to say this again but I still can't find anything about Windows 8 that I dislike. The more I use it the more I like it and this from someone that did not think he would even try it.  :slap:  :swoon:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Nov 05, 2012, 20:48:24
Good to hear , I think if you've not got one something like a touch mouse it's worth considering as the gestures may be a help for what is a touchscreen enabled OS
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Nov 05, 2012, 21:28:14
The screen works fine with a mouse and clicks and I really don't see the need for touch. Then again I don't find touch screen phones that good either. I think the non-standard screen very easy to use but its so easy to move from one type of screen to another that they intergrate very well.  ::)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Nov 05, 2012, 22:28:45
Has anyone seen extra network traffic since upgrading to windows 8?
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Nov 06, 2012, 09:07:27
Quote from: Den on Nov 05, 2012, 21:28:14
The screen works fine with a mouse and clicks and I really don't see the need for touch. Then again I don't find touch screen phones that good either. I think the non-standard screen very easy to use but its so easy to move from one type of screen to another that they intergrate very well.  ::)

Totally agree with you Den  :thumb: I'm still learning and removing things I don't want.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Nov 06, 2012, 09:17:50
Had a play with it yesterday, not really what I would want in a desktop maybe but it is would be great in tablet and phone form with the swipe down for shutting down applications as an example. It is a bit schizophrenic in places but that's to be expected when making a software sandwich of two OS's in one almost. It is much fresher than windows seven, at least MS have had a go at making something new, well some of it is.  :)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Nov 06, 2012, 09:21:52
That's why I think utilising gestures which are built into the OS may enrich the user experience, certainly I wouldn't be without them having used them for a while now.


Edit : It appears the touchpad drivers supporting gestures for Windows 8 may not have been out long but some are around ie synaptics v 16.2.10.19  I believe.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Nov 06, 2012, 09:26:36
Quote from: Gary on Nov 06, 2012, 09:17:50
Had a play with it yesterday, not really what I would want in a desktop maybe but it is would be great in tablet and phone form with the swipe down for shutting down applications as an example. It is a bit schizophrenic in places but that's to be expected when making a software sandwich of two OS's in one almost. It is much fresher than windows seven, at least MS have had a go at making something new, well some of it is.  :)

Would agree to the schizophrenic, but then it could be me!  :laugh:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Nov 06, 2012, 11:52:23
Quote from: J!ll on Nov 06, 2012, 09:26:36
Would agree to the schizophrenic, but then it could be me!  :laugh:
;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Nov 06, 2012, 15:17:22
A lot of people complained about the loss of the Start Button but the Start screen is just a better version of that button and is easily accessed from the keyboard anytime.  The more I use it the  more I am growing attached to it.  I also love the spell checker built in as I type open her it finds all my miss-spellings and either underlines them or puts them right.  If you learn the keyboard shortcuts them the whole system works very slickly.  I also love the fact that you get bit locking in the Pro version, much better than WINDOWS 7 PRO.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 06, 2012, 16:15:35
Quote from: psp83 on Nov 05, 2012, 22:28:45
Has anyone seen extra network traffic since upgrading to windows 8?
I'm guessing it's all the new online features (integration with live account etc)?
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Nov 06, 2012, 21:06:26
Quote from: cavillas on Nov 06, 2012, 15:17:22
A lot of people complained about the loss of the Start Button but the Start screen is just a better version of that button and is easily accessed from the keyboard anytime.  The more I use it the  more I am growing attached to it.  I also love the spell checker built in as I type open her it finds all my miss-spellings and either underlines them or puts them right.  If you learn the keyboard shortcuts them the whole system works very slickly.  I also love the fact that you get bit locking in the Pro version, much better than WINDOWS 7 PRO.

Spell checker? I've not found that! but I expect you've noticed  :laugh:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 06, 2012, 21:41:56
I think I'm gonna love hating you all now. If it's so successful, I'll have to learn it too.  :slap:
It's going to be a drain on my eyes and brain.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Nov 06, 2012, 23:20:33
Quote from: psp83 on Nov 05, 2012, 22:28:45
Has anyone seen extra network traffic since upgrading to windows 8?

That'll be all the live feeds on Metro Modern UI as MS assumed that everyone had a stock portfolio to watch, wanted to watch (insert well known personality name here) prattle on about what they had for dinner and what the weather was like outside.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Nov 07, 2012, 13:46:19
Quote from: J!ll on Nov 06, 2012, 21:06:26
Spell checker? I've not found that! but I expect you've noticed  :laugh:

It runs automatically when you fill in forms etc on IE10, it also works when using this forum, funnily enough.  Just a pity it won't work with Notepad or wordpad but you can download a free text editor form MS Store and it works with that.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Nov 07, 2012, 17:18:10
I'm using Firefox  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Nov 07, 2012, 18:39:34
I was using Firefox until IE10 came out and I am now giving IE10 a run and so far I like what I see. Getting tempted to install Windows 8 on my laptop next, I did not think that I would be won over to this extent.   :blush:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Nov 07, 2012, 19:54:01
Quote from: J!ll on Nov 07, 2012, 17:18:10
I'm using Firefox  ;D
Yuk!  Time to change to a better browser then. ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Nov 07, 2012, 22:52:31
Quote from: cavillas on Nov 07, 2012, 13:46:19
It runs automatically when you fill in forms etc on IE10, it also works when using this forum, funnily enough.  Just a pity it won't work with Notepad or wordpad but you can download a free text editor form MS Store and it works with that.
American English?
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Nov 08, 2012, 09:50:19
Quote from: Gary on Nov 07, 2012, 22:52:31
American English?
It adapts to your region/country.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Nov 08, 2012, 15:42:43
Quote from: cavillas on Nov 07, 2012, 19:54:01
Yuk!  Time to change to a better browser then. ;D

I like FF  :tongue:   >:D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Glenn on Nov 08, 2012, 15:56:44
Media Center is free from MS http://windows.microsoft.com/en-US/windows-8/feature-packs
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Nov 08, 2012, 16:08:51
Quote from: J!ll on Nov 08, 2012, 15:42:43
I like FF  :tongue:   >:D
So Sad :evil: ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Nov 08, 2012, 18:39:45
 :thwack:   >:D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Nov 08, 2012, 19:28:16
 :sob: :hide2:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Nov 08, 2012, 19:59:20
Quote from: Den on Nov 05, 2012, 20:23:38
I hate to say this again but I still can't find anything about Windows 8 that I dislike. The more I use it the more I like it and this from someone that did not think he would even try it.  :slap:  :swoon:

You won't say that when it needs grouting  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: FritzBox on Nov 10, 2012, 13:10:23
Just had someone phone me up who had upgraded to 8 "Can you get my laptop back to Windows 7 please"
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Nov 10, 2012, 13:16:12
It's certainly different, what do people expect? Why upgrade and not be prepared to spend some time learning the new OS. If performance is poor I can understand but I'm led to believe that's not usually the issue.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: FritzBox on Nov 10, 2012, 14:27:27
Must admit I didn't like the look of it either. Looks like a mobile phone. The chap who did the upgrade isn't really that computer literate, it was more a case of "Because he could" and then obviously he couldn't
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Nov 10, 2012, 14:40:06
When you use desktop it's just like using Windows 8 only better, when you switch across to Metro (or whatever its now called) it's like have a very good optional extra. Once you start to get used to that its great fun and very quick. But you have to be prepared to learn something new. I have now put it on my laptop so all three of my computers are running Windows 8, Just need to convert my iPad next.  >:D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Nov 10, 2012, 16:48:35
I've been using windows 8 now on my dev computer that I use for about 10 - 16 hours a day and to me its like using windows 7, just faster & better.

Start page is not a problem.

But for people that just don't like the start page, just buy a program called Start8 from Stardock, it only costs £3 and you will have the start menu back but better than windows 7 start menu.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Nov 10, 2012, 16:49:48
Also, File History is a life saver in Win8, easy way to restore lost/deleted files  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: FritzBox on Nov 10, 2012, 17:59:39
Quote from: psp83 on Nov 10, 2012, 16:49:48


Win8 life saver, easy way to restore cash in my pocket  ;D

Sorted it for you psp
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 10, 2012, 22:15:12
Quote from: FritzBox on Nov 10, 2012, 13:10:23
Just had someone phone me up who had upgraded to 8 "Can you get my laptop back to Windows 7 please"
OH dear. I don't believe that's a possibility. Well, it's possible, but requires the instillation CDs a backup or a very risky "restore point".  :laugh:  :swoon:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: FritzBox on Nov 11, 2012, 18:12:09
Quote from: Technical Ben on Nov 10, 2012, 22:15:12
OH dear. I don't believe that's a possibility. Well, it's possible, but requires the instillation CDs a backup or a very risky "restore point".  :laugh:  :swoon:

Quite easy really. Recovery partition. Done and dusted  ;)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Nov 25, 2012, 11:21:48
Two weeks later and still loving Windows 8. I still have not had the urge to swipe the screen but then again I don't live in Liverpool.  >:D

I would urge the doubters to at least try it, It is very quick and stable and so far I have had no problems on any of my three computers.   :fingers:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 25, 2012, 12:50:36
I would do if it was free. As I say the same to most sales people/new products. ;)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Nov 25, 2012, 18:36:20
You can try it for 90 days before having to activate it.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 25, 2012, 18:59:56
That's still -90 days less than I need though. ;)
As said, if I don't need it, I'll not get it yet.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Nov 25, 2012, 20:20:34
Seems you are not the only one thinking that
Quote from: Technical Ben on Nov 25, 2012, 18:59:56
That's still -90 days less than I need though. ;)
As said, if I don't need it, I'll not get it yet.
Seems you are not the only one thinking that http://news.cnet.com/8301-10805_3-57551433-75/windows-8-sales-well-below-projections-report-claims/
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 25, 2012, 21:56:27
If they had marketed it as a "Windows 7 Upgrade with Metro" they'd have sold millions. As a new OS, people are sitting on the fence.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Nov 26, 2012, 06:51:27
Quote from: Technical Ben on Nov 25, 2012, 21:56:27
If they had marketed it as a "Windows 7 Upgrade with Metro" they'd have sold millions. As a new OS, people are sitting on the fence.
I wonder how much of that is to do with peoples economic woes as much as it being 'Windows 8" Although the tiled interface is putting people off it seems. I found a article in the Guardian as well saying the same sort of thing, but with people not buying big ticket items is it really surprising. http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/2012/nov/23/windows-8-struggle-take-off
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Nov 26, 2012, 08:20:50
From the above article in the Guardian, these I think are very relevant comments

QuoteToluna suggested that the low interest in Windows 8 may partly be due to the success of Windows 7 in satisfying existing customers - who are very likely to have upgraded from XP or Vista in the past three years and may not see any reason to change.


QuoteBut in 2012, PC sales have slowed dramatically, and buyers are looking at tablets as alternative purchases.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Nov 26, 2012, 08:34:48
Quote from: Steve on Nov 26, 2012, 08:20:50
From the above article in the Guardian, these I think are very relevant comments

I would agree, also I think people are holding cash back anyway, if you have a computer why buy another to get windows 8, most people never upgrade thier OS anyway when it comes to Joe public. Same with new iMacs, people are not going to pay more for less, keep your money in your pocket unless you have to buy, seems to be the order of the day.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Nov 26, 2012, 13:47:32
Many companies have not even upgraded to windows 7 yet and some are still on windows 2000.  As these companies begin to upgrade then Windows 8 sales will slowly increase.  So far still finding it an excellent OS with no problems and very safe and secure backup system in place.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Glenn on Nov 26, 2012, 14:17:22
I know of one that will be going straight from XP to Win 8 early next year.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lance on Nov 26, 2012, 19:24:54
In the last 6 months, we've gone from XP to 7, with that migration still taking place - I believe approximately 4000 of the 7000 users have been migrated so far (new hardware is being issued too). We almost certainly won't upgrade to 8 and knowing how my place works 9 will be missed out too.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Nov 26, 2012, 19:47:37
Just had my desktop at work rebuilt and got 7.

Definitely loads quicker than XP on the hardware (A Core 2 Duo)

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Nov 26, 2012, 23:02:38
You can use readyboost too. Well, if it's a home pc :P
Works well for lower specked machines as usb sticks are cheap now. Best increase is in 2 core 2GB systems. Anything more than that and the pc is probably fast enough as it is.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Nov 27, 2012, 07:28:14
Vista was Millennium Edition 2.0


Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 05, 2013, 17:53:16
I don't know why everybody knocks Vista.  I've never had any problems with it.

I just got a new Samsung all in one PC from Santa and it is going back to the shop as I find it annoying and basic software missing like Windows Mail.  You either have to go online to outlook or use hotmail or gmail.  Microsoft has tried to cobble together basic pc with a tablet.  The young folk will love the touch screen and all the frills but I just want a system that enables me to have what I want.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 05, 2013, 18:02:14
I guess there's always the option of third party mail clients such as Thunderbird, but the more I hear about Windows 8, the more I'm being put off it.  Is Windows Mail not available as a stand alone download?
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Glenn on Jan 05, 2013, 18:04:41
Windows live essentials now includes Windows mail.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 05, 2013, 18:06:16
No Simon. Windows 8 does not support pop3 mail accounts.

It must be an age thing as my grand neice thought it was fantastic. She sat all night on skype chatting to her pals via webcam.  She loved the touch screen.  Give me a keyboard and mouse any day so really I would say these pcs are all geared for the young.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 05, 2013, 18:08:30
Agree Lona,

Give me a keyboard and mouse any day.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 05, 2013, 18:13:41
Quote from: Lona on Jan 05, 2013, 17:53:16
I don't know why everybody knocks Vista.  I've never had any problems with it.



If you had to support software running on it as I did, you would Lona!

It broke lots of stuff and if you upgraded an existing PC there was a severe lack of device drivers and any attempt to install ones for XP would just stall as the way they were installed changed in an attempt to make the system more secure.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 05, 2013, 18:20:25
Maybe you should go for an iMac, Lona?  I know they're bloody expensive, but if you want something that just works, without too much fiddling about, they might be worth a consideration, although, obviously any existing Windows software you may have will be rendered useless. 
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Jan 05, 2013, 18:24:10
Keyboards and Mice, I think a lot depends on whether the device is intended to be comfortably portable and I don't mean a 15in laptop, I would agree with anything not portable a keyboard and mouse/trackpad seems the obvious choice. Regarding the OS although I've not used 8 it comes across as a bit mixture of portable and non portable OS and not quite succeeding in either, Windows 7 does appear to be the current benchmark for the PC.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Jan 05, 2013, 18:24:49
I use Windows 8 on two desktops and one laptop. I don't have a touch screen and do not feel that I need one. I liked Vista and moved onto Windows 7 which was better. Windows 8 is such a big step further on and is superb and I'm not a young person Lona.

I use Outlook in Office 2010 and have no problem with any versions of emails so I think you should give it a good try before booting it out.   :angel:


You should give it a try Simon I think after the first few hours you would love it, it's just different but that's called progress.   >:D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 05, 2013, 18:26:19
Quote from: Simon on Jan 05, 2013, 18:20:25
Maybe you should go for an iMac, Lona?  I know they're bloody expensive, but if you want something that just works,

Macs do have problems with some software

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Ray on Jan 05, 2013, 18:26:52
Quote from: Lona on Jan 05, 2013, 18:06:16
No Simon. Windows 8 does not support pop3 mail accounts.

Yes it does you need to download and install Windows Live mail which is the replacement for Outlook Express or another stand alone email client, I've been using POP3 mail on W 8 since I upgraded my main PC to it.

You can also still use your Mouse and Keyboard with it and if you go to the Desktop view it works in exactly the same way as any other version of Windows.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Glenn on Jan 05, 2013, 18:28:17
I'm not loving Win 8, I have to start supporting it at work later this year.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 05, 2013, 18:31:41
Queries at work have been lower than expected, the big problem comes with the two versions of IE.

If you launch IE from the start screen it does not support flash or Java, you have to launch it from the desktop.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 05, 2013, 18:36:09
Quote from: Ray on Jan 05, 2013, 18:26:52
Yes it does you need to download and install Windows Live mail which is the replacement for Outlook Express or another stand alone email client, I've been using POP3 mail on W 8 since I upgraded my main PC to it.

You can also still use your Mouse and Keyboard with it and if you go to the Desktop view it works in exactly the same way as any other version of Windows.

I appreciate what you are saying Ray but when I tried to set up pop3 email a message came up saying win 8 does not support pop3 email.  I had join Microsoft  account and go to Outlook.com to receive my idnet emails.
I also found this statement online..............

It was silly for Microsoft to not include suport for POP3 using the default mail client in Windows 8, but short of Microsoft including a hotfix or someone creating a patch for the program, there isn't much we can do. I would suggest using another mail client. Windows Live or Thunderbird are great choices to use. If you're already using such a program on a separate computer, it should be easy to import your mail so your older e-mails are still present.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 05, 2013, 18:38:43
I'll have a 'play' on our test system at work on Monday Lona.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 05, 2013, 18:41:43
So that does at least confirm that Windows Live Mail is available as a download - doesn't it?
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Ray on Jan 05, 2013, 18:43:04
It is, Simon, it's part of Windows Live Essentials available from here: -

http://windows.microsoft.com/en-GB/windows-live/essentials-other-programs (http://windows.microsoft.com/en-GB/windows-live/essentials-other-programs)

You can either install everything or choose which parts you want to install.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 05, 2013, 18:48:52
Quote from: Simon on Jan 05, 2013, 18:41:43
So that does at least confirm that Windows Live Mail is available as a download - doesn't it?

Too late now Simon. John Lewis is coming to pick up the PC on Monday.

Another annoyance was networking the printer to the laptop and the vista machine.  I had to install 32bit drivers onto the win8 machine as it had automatically installed 64bit drivers.  What a carry on I had but got them networked eventually.

I'm not saying windows 8 is rubbish but for me I was just using the desktop function plus the keyboard and mouse that came with the PC so really it's not worth paying a fortune for frills I will never use.  Touch screens are ok for tablets and iphones but for me, I can't see them being of use.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Jan 06, 2013, 12:28:01
Windows 8 does indeed support pop mail.  You have an email client on the Start Page and using the settings-accounts add account-other account options you can set up an account with Imap, pop or even exchange . It is accessed by using the charms setting on the right.  I have a few pop accounts set up that way as well as imap ones.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 06, 2013, 16:21:21
It would have surprised me greatly for MS to drop support for POP as that is what a good majority of home users are still using and maybe the only protocol some ISPs support so there would have likely been an outcry and considering a lot of these buy licenses for server products, well you get the idea.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Clive on Jan 06, 2013, 16:48:47
I won't tell anybody that Simon has yet to upgrade to Windows 7 yet alone 8.   ;D  If you look at the prices of Windows 8 laptops you will see that they retail for £100 less than those using Windows 7.  That says it all.   :whistle:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 06, 2013, 16:52:01
I ordered my current system back in July and opted for Win 7 Pro x64

I can in theory upgrade to Win 8 for 14 quid but I don't intend to.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 06, 2013, 16:52:21
Quote from: Clive on Jan 06, 2013, 16:48:47
I won't tell anybody that Simon has yet to upgrade to Windows 7 yet alone 8.   ;D  If you look at the prices of Windows 8 laptops you will see that they retail for £100 less than those using Windows 7.  That says it all.   :whistle:

They know I'm an XP luddite!  It's still the best OS around.  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: zappaDPJ on Jan 06, 2013, 16:53:18
Quote from: Clive on Jan 06, 2013, 16:48:47
I won't tell anybody that Simon has yet to upgrade to Windows 7 yet alone 8.   ;D  If you look at the prices of Windows 8 laptops you will see that they retail for £100 less than those using Windows 7.  That says it all.   :whistle:

:lol: and :welc: Clive.

:karma:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 06, 2013, 16:55:12
It's about bloody time!  :evil:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 06, 2013, 16:55:29
Quote from: Simon on Jan 06, 2013, 16:52:21
They know I'm an XP luddite!  It's still the best OS around.  ;D

I said that too Simon but def prefer Win 7 now and have it on both home and work PCs.

For starters the interface is more comfortable to look at over a long period as I do at work.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Jan 06, 2013, 17:18:10
and what's wrong with still using window 3.1, works for me. :whistle: :evil: ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 06, 2013, 17:21:13
 ;D

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Jan 06, 2013, 17:31:37
 :welc: :karma: Clive!
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lance on Jan 06, 2013, 17:31:38
You could at least upgrade to 3.11! What version of Dos are you using?

(20 years ago that was quite a common thing to ask!).
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 06, 2013, 17:35:35
6.22 I guess along with using Trumpet Winsock to connect to the Internet with a 14.4 modem.

;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 06, 2013, 17:36:19
Quote from: cavillas on Jan 06, 2013, 12:28:01
Windows 8 does indeed support pop mail.  You have an email client on the Start Page and using the settings-accounts add account-other account options you can set up an account with Imap, pop or even exchange . It is accessed by using the charms setting on the right.  I have a few pop accounts set up that way as well as imap ones.

I did that and was able to use outlook.com for my pop account but everytime I had to logon with a password.  I tried ticking keep me logged in but everytime I tried downloading my mail I had to logon again with a password.  I like to just click an icon on my desktop and receive my mail without having to go into a website.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 06, 2013, 17:40:09
Sounds like you set up a Microsoft rather than a local account Lona.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 06, 2013, 18:01:49
Quote from: pctech on Jan 06, 2013, 17:40:09
Sounds like you set up a Microsoft rather than a local account Lona

Yes I did Mitch, as it said I had to have a Microsoft account to access my mail.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 06, 2013, 18:06:14
You don't have this trouble with XP!  :out:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 06, 2013, 18:07:45
I'll have a look on our test machine at work which is not MS account linked.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 06, 2013, 18:08:24
Quote from: Simon on Jan 06, 2013, 18:06:14
You don't have this trouble with XP!  :out:

zippit.com

;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 06, 2013, 18:09:30
Quote from: Simon on Jan 06, 2013, 18:06:14
You don't have this trouble with XP!  :out:

Agreed Simon.  All this technology is getting too much for my old brain.  They say there's more to come too as they are holding it back till we get used to the present then they will throw more at us.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 06, 2013, 18:18:55
I'm not against upgrading, but why do they always seem to have to make things more difficult?  Email is one thing that everyone wants, so why change an essential element such as that, and make it less easily accessible?
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 06, 2013, 18:21:49
Because they want the interface to look cool and trendy and they think everyone just wants social networks.



Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Clive on Jan 06, 2013, 19:21:37
Thanks for the welcome guys.   :D  I  loved 3.1 because I could pretend to understand it.   ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Jan 06, 2013, 20:12:33
Quote from: pctech on Jan 06, 2013, 17:35:35
6.22 I guess along with using Trumpet Winsock to connect to the Internet with a 14.4 modem.

;D
What's a modem? ::) :o
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Jan 06, 2013, 21:38:16
My first car had three forward gears and the wipers were fed by air and slowed down on a hill, but it was safe.   :whistle:  Windows XP my bum. Time to move on Simon while you can  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 06, 2013, 21:58:07
 ;D

I'll get around to it one day, but if it ain't broke...  ;)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Glenn on Jan 06, 2013, 22:14:18
T minus 15 months until it officially retires.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 06, 2013, 22:15:20
That's if they don't extend it again...
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Clive on Jan 06, 2013, 22:34:34
Quote from: Den on Jan 06, 2013, 21:38:16
My first car had three forward gears and the wipers were fed by air and slowed down on a hill, but it was safe.   :whistle:  Windows XP my bum. Time to move on Simon while you can  ;D

Reminds me of my 1957 MkII Zodiac.  8-)  Yes, get Win 7 before it's too late Simon.   ;)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Jan 06, 2013, 22:37:58
As long as we get plenty of notice so we can book a holiday. :whistle:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 06, 2013, 22:41:21
Quote from: Glenn on Jan 06, 2013, 22:14:18
T minus 15 months until it officially retires.

Actually, do you mean XP or Windows 7, Glenn?  I have Win7 still in a sealed box from when it first came out!
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 06, 2013, 22:43:29
He does mean XP Simon.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Jan 06, 2013, 22:44:11
That will be the Ultimate Sandbox version then! :whistle:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 06, 2013, 22:47:50
 ;D

I seriously don't think it's worth wasting the licence by installing it on this 4 year old PC.  It's not going to be too much longer before I start running short of storage space, so I might as well build, or have built, a new machine, and either put Windows 7 on that, or use it to replace Vista on my laptop, which I hardly use anyway.  It'll probably be a job for the summer holidays, though, when I have 6-7 weeks off work.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Jan 07, 2013, 12:31:53
I do find that windows 7 is a much better version of windows xp.  It runs faster, is more reliable and much more secure.  I even prefer it to Windows 8 although I am now beginning to love Windows 8 as it is even faster with many more useful features.  I do like the refresh part where I can do a quick re-install keeping my settings and documents also my installed Office 2010 and Printer set up.  It gets rid of everything else for a clean start.  I can even do a full re-install which removes everything and leaves you with a pristine Windows 8 Installation, all of this takes onl 10 minutes or so much better than the old wipe and re-install of past Windows.

You could install window 8 on a 4 year old machine and it will run extremely well, faster than windows xp even.

Go on, you know you want to. ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: sobranie on Jan 07, 2013, 16:00:23
I remain singularly unconvinced re. the perceived speed increase after installing Windows 8.
OK, I am not a Win8 user but am fully aware of the fact that if one ditches all the rubbish on ones machine (reformat perhaps) and then loads a new version of any OS
then the machine will appear to be much much faster UNTIL such time as you load in all the requisite shovelware when the machine will revert
to the usual plod.
Just my two pence worth fwiw.



Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Jan 07, 2013, 16:14:28
Efficiency of memory usage? But then again I thought Windows 7 sorted that out. I think your right though there's no magic it's just uncluttered and detruitus free for a while.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Jan 07, 2013, 17:13:42
But it's easier to unclutter then it was before. :laugh: :)x
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 07, 2013, 17:31:56
Even the shutdown on Windows 8 is a pain.  Three clicks instead of one. Who needs Charms to shut down a PC.  It's really a case of Fur Coat and no Knickers.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 07, 2013, 17:59:05
:laugh:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Jan 07, 2013, 18:30:20
Quote from: Lona on Jan 07, 2013, 17:31:56
Even the shutdown on Windows 8 is a pain.  Three clicks instead of one. Who needs Charms to shut down a PC.  It's really a case of Fur Coat and no Knickers.

I have one shut down buttom, it's red and at the bottom of my pc no charms needed  :D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Jan 07, 2013, 18:31:04
Quote from: Lona on Jan 07, 2013, 17:31:56
Even the shutdown on Windows 8 is a pain.  Three clicks instead of one. Who needs Charms to shut down a PC.  It's really a case of Fur Coat and no Knickers.


Quote from: Simon on Jan 07, 2013, 17:59:05
:laugh:

:eyebrow:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Clive on Jan 07, 2013, 19:15:29
I've bid a fond farewell to XP after abandoning my last desktop PC in favour of a new laptop and this wonderful emachines netbook which Rik told me to buy.  Both computers run Windows 7 and I shall probably be able to skip Windows 8 with any luck.   :fingers:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 07, 2013, 19:17:42
He did love getting people to buy stuff.  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Clive on Jan 07, 2013, 19:26:29
I think he kept the economy going!  I've been afraid to buy anything without seeking his approval first!   :laugh:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Jan 07, 2013, 19:34:48
Quote from: Simon on Jan 07, 2013, 19:17:42
He did love getting people to buy stuff.  ;D
Our supermarkets got lots of money because of Riks foodie fetish, it always made me hungry ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: sobranie on Jan 07, 2013, 19:50:30
Quote from: cavillas on Jan 07, 2013, 17:13:42
But it's easier to unclutter then it was before. :laugh: :)x

14lb sledgehammer from B&Q ...... what's new?? ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Jan 08, 2013, 10:08:54
Homebase was cheaper. :o ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Jan 08, 2013, 11:48:12
Quote from: Lona on Jan 07, 2013, 17:31:56
Even the shutdown on Windows 8 is a pain.  Three clicks instead of one. Who needs Charms to shut down a PC.  It's really a case of Fur Coat and no Knickers.

Just make sure your power button on the computer is set to "shutdown" when pressed or press ALT+F4 when on the desktop and it will give you this :-

(http://psp83.co.uk/pics/screenshots/win8desk.jpg)

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 08, 2013, 14:53:35
Quote from: psp83 on Jan 08, 2013, 11:48:12
Just make sure your power button on the computer is set to "shutdown" when pressed or press ALT+F4 when on the desktop and it will give you this :-

(http://psp83.co.uk/pics/screenshots/win8desk.jpg)



That's great, but when I spent all that money buying it, I shouldn't need to come on a forum to find out how to shut it down. The help files should have told me a better way.  Similar to receiving my mail. Instead of telling me I needed to join a Microsoft account it should have told me about Windows essentials.  Not everybody go on forums or are techy minded. Why make life difficult for a wee pensioner like myself. ;)
Another thing that Microsoft didn't tell the user was that they hadn't sorted out the incompatibility with Norton but that they are working on it.  It took me sometime to discover that Norton and Windows 8 are incompatible.  If and when I buy another new PC I am going to wait until Windows8 get their full act together.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Jan 08, 2013, 16:40:55
I think Norton should sort its programmes out as they have had plenty of time to work with Microsoft over Windows 8, just poor programing practice on their part when other companies seem to have got to grips with Windows 8 ok.

It seems to be the way of life these days a new OS or application comes out and there is no printed matter to make it understandable, the companies rely on PDF files and obscure help files.  Bring back the old manuals like the ones we used to have for DOS 6.22 and 5.  I love big hefty books to read and understand.

I bought Windows 8 form Microsoft as a download and burnt to dvd for £25 which is about what I think all software should cost.

I'm full of words today, it must be because my doctor took me off Beta blockers because they were no good. ::)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 08, 2013, 16:42:41
Keep at it, Alf!   ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Glenn on Jan 08, 2013, 17:05:34
The Dummies guide I posted earlier is still available free http://www.idnetters.co.uk/forums/index.php/topic,29835.msg697410.html#msg697410
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Jan 08, 2013, 17:47:02
Also, Windows key + i brings up the settings charms menu, click power then shutdown.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 08, 2013, 17:51:59
Quote from: psp83 on Jan 08, 2013, 17:47:02
Also, Windows key + i brings up the settings charms menu, click power then shutdown.

Just like I said, Mitch, 3 clicks to do one function ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: BrianM on Jan 08, 2013, 18:53:42
I've added an icon to my toolbar in Windows XP.  It seems it can be applied to Windows 8. Maybe worth looking into.

    http://techx64.com/windows-8-shutdown-button-on-desktop-taskbar-startscreen/
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Jan 08, 2013, 19:51:58
Quote from: BrianM on Jan 08, 2013, 18:53:42
I've added an icon to my toolbar in Windows XP.  It seems it can be applied to Windows 8. Maybe worth looking into.

    http://techx64.com/windows-8-shutdown-button-on-desktop-taskbar-startscreen/

Yep, I've also got a title for shutdown and restart.

Plus I'm never really in the touch screen part of the OS, once I'm in the desktop area its not much different to windows 7.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Jan 09, 2013, 17:40:38
Seems like people need training wheels for the learning curves, and others need to work out why they want to ruin a perfectly good OS by putting Norton on it, when it comes with a perfectly good built in AV anyway...  >:D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Jan 09, 2013, 17:51:07
I think that's the problem with AV products - were scared stiff of getting one (although the chances are pretty low) plus we don't trust MS and it depends which review we read whether we trust them more or less. I think the Microsoft AV product is probably good enough, although Norton, McAfee and their sponsored reviewers will disagree.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 09, 2013, 18:04:14
Quote from: Gary on Jan 09, 2013, 17:40:38
Seems like people need training wheels for the learning curves, and others need to work out why they want to ruin a perfectly good OS by putting Norton on it, when it comes with a perfectly good built in AV anyway...  >:D

My PC came with Norton pre-installed with 60 days free and an option to buy for £14.99.  I decided to take the 60 days to see if it was any good and if so I was going to purchase the licence.  When it started giving problems I contacted Microsoft who said they were aware of the problems and were working on a solution.  My beef is, why did Microsoft allow Norton to be installed with Windows 8 if they already knew it didn't work. I'm not entirely stupid, Gary, when it comes to AV.  I've had Norton in the past and years ago it was a very good application.

NB Think first before teaching your grannie to suck eggs. :P
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Glenn on Jan 09, 2013, 18:27:11
Maybe it wasn't Microsoft, but more likely the PC manufacturer that is being paid by Norton and the other Software houses to include their products.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 09, 2013, 18:38:17
And also, they may not have realised there were problems when the application was first installed.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 09, 2013, 19:51:46
All I can say is that if I were running a business I would make sure my products were compatible before installing them on goods going out for retail.

Either Norton should have consulted Samsung who in turn should have consulted Microsoft but that's what's wrong with todays big companies, there's never time to do it right but always time to do it over. :mad:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Jan 11, 2013, 21:17:45
Lona, it's up to the software supplier to make sure their product will work on the operating system not the other way round. Windows 8 preview was out for long enough and Norton should have ensured that they were up to speed.

I use Bluguard and that works fine but then again I use Windows Defender on one of my machines and that seems fine as well.  ;D 

Still loving Windows 8 and would not like to go back to any other earlier system. I had to trouble shoot for a friends shop computer the other day and they were running XP, it was like going back to the Amiga 1200.   ;)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 11, 2013, 21:21:12
Windows 7 will remain popular for a long while
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Jan 12, 2013, 21:35:46
I'm not knocking Windows 7 at all it was a great system it's just that Windows 8 is even better. But XP was going back a long way and as such is no longer safe. But then again I liked The Amiga 1200 and did not like moving to W95 or 98, time moves on.  :D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Niall on Jan 12, 2013, 22:12:22
Quote from: Den on Jan 12, 2013, 21:35:46
I'm not knocking Windows 7 at all it was a great system it's just that Windows 8 is even better. But XP was going back a long way and as such is no longer safe. But then again I liked The Amiga 1200 and did not like moving to W95 or 98, time moves on.  :D

Oo you big fibber. Windows 8 looks icky :D

Not sure if I mentioned it on here before, but recently my dad recently gave me back my old Amiga, modded with a hard drive and an Amiga 1200 :D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Jan 13, 2013, 09:59:59
Try running W8 for a few hours with an open mind, accept that some things are not in the same place but get used to it. Then make the comments after you find how fast it is compared to your older system. It's funny people who swap over to Apple don't complain that everything is in a different place and they get used to it.  ;D

It's human nature not to want change.  But the Amiga 1200 now that was something else and far better than Windows 95 but then along came CHANGE and we had to get used to it.  ;)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Jan 13, 2013, 13:41:25
But if it's anything like XP/Vista they will backtrack on their decisions. :P
Like the control panel layout. In nearly all the settings walkthroughs (even from MS) they say "click classic/all items view". Which is IMO an admission the category/messy list is pointless.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 13, 2013, 15:30:45
I agree Den, Windows 8 will be a good system once they sort out some of the useless needless frills that are not really necessary unless you like all those fallderalls.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Jan 13, 2013, 17:44:38
I keep playing around with Windows 8 when I have time and keep finding something new to try. Some of the Apps are fantastic and most are free.   ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: J!ll on Jan 13, 2013, 17:58:20
There's a lot to learn, Den, but I like it.  :thumb:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Jan 13, 2013, 19:20:06
Thanks Jill, I was starting to feel isolated by the "I don't want to change gang"   ;)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: psp83 on Jan 13, 2013, 19:39:40
I didn't like Win 8 when I was using the beta..

But I installed the RTM version on the day it went live and not looked back since.

Windows Blue (8.1) that should be out this year should fix issues as well.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 14, 2013, 00:16:19
I'm very seldom wrong, but I'm right again. ;D. Told you Windows 8 was cr*p. :P

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oGF-WtsZOjY
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Jan 14, 2013, 21:40:52
Thanks for that Lona, it makes it so clear that I have been wrong about Windows 8 and should have listened to the doubters all along. I think I will remove W8 from all of my computers in the morning and go back to Windows 95 because it was so cool.   :)x

The only thing that was cr*p about that was his biased opinions  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 14, 2013, 21:56:37
I don't really feel that his opinions were biased - he merely seemed to be suggesting some things that he thinks could be improved.  I honestly still don't think I could take to it.  I need to like the look of the OS I'm working with, and all those blocks and tiles simply aren't aesthetic enough for me.  Were it not for the expense of having to change existing software, in addition to the expense of the products themselves, I'd be seriously considering a Mac of some description for my next desktop computer.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: dlorde on Jan 14, 2013, 22:26:39
I've installed Win8 on both desktop and laptop - it's given my old Vaio laptop a new lease of life, as it's faster and less memory hungry than Win7. I can't get on with the new UI (though no doubt it's good with touch screens), so I boot straight to the desktop, using Start8 for a Win7-alike 'Start' menu, and 7 Sidebar to keep the desktop gadgets I'm used to.

For me Win8 with a WIn7 look-alike interface is the best of both worlds. Seems to manage networking better too.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Jan 15, 2013, 16:22:33
Windows 8 is definitely faster than windows 7 pro, I like the other things like bit locker etc. as well.  As with any OS it all comes down to personal preferences, likes and dislikes as well as a reluctance to change to something different.  Obviously some will find things seems slower or act differently but I have found that many things that would not work on Windows 7 just run on windows 8.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 15, 2013, 16:42:14
Quote from: Den on Jan 13, 2013, 09:59:59
Try running W8 for a few hours with an open mind, accept that some things are not in the same place but get used to it. Then make the comments after you find how fast it is compared to your older system. It's funny people who swap over to Apple don't complain that everything is in a different place and they get used to it.  ;D

It's human nature not to want change.  But the Amiga 1200 now that was something else and far better than Windows 95 but then along came CHANGE and we had to get used to it.  ;)

I did and I agree with Niall.

Whoever designed that UI was obviously stoned.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Jan 15, 2013, 16:47:37
I am getting used to the new UI and find that I like it for running some of the apps such as Sky news and TV catchup. I don't feel that it is only any good for a touch screen as it works very well with a mouse and does not give me any problems at all.   8-)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Glenn on Jan 15, 2013, 17:36:01
If you have an HP machine and you miss your Start button a solution is a few clicks away http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?docname=c03557078&cc=ca&dlc=en&lc=en
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Lona on Jan 15, 2013, 20:08:40
Quote from: Simon on Jan 14, 2013, 21:56:37
I don't really feel that his opinions were biased - he merely seemed to be suggesting some things that he thinks could be improved.  I honestly still don't think I could take to it.  I need to like the look of the OS I'm working with, and all those blocks and tiles simply aren't aesthetic enough for me.  Were it not for the expense of having to change existing software, in addition to the expense of the products themselves, I'd be seriously considering a Mac of some description for my next desktop computer.

You can delete half of the useless tiles on the Smart screen and replace them with the tiles you prefer, Simon, but better just to use the desktop unless you're into touch screen viewing.

I got my refund today from John Lewis and am so relieved as I'm going to wait a bit longer before taking the plunge.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: wecpcs on Jan 15, 2013, 20:36:50
I have been using Windows 8 Pro from the day it was released as a download. I got to like it very much but as I only took the upgrade option as an install as my PC had only been recently reinstalled with Windows 7. I soon decided to carry out a fresh install with 8 (as I normally would have done anyway) especially as I had not finished installing all my other program. I also bought the Start8 app which is brilliant.

But now I am seriously thinking of going back to Windows 7 because I am experiencing many problems, one of which is Nortons 2013 as Win 8 occasionally keeps stating my Antivirus and Firewall were turned off, when they were not. Normally a simple reboot cured that until next time, and apparently MS is aware of it and working on a fix. Another problem is the PC ocassionly hangs when shutting down or hibernating forcing a hard reset and again another reboot normally cures that. I have disabled the Quick Start feature which users said cured that but not for me. Another problem I had was with MS Windows 2013 preview, that occasionally would hang or go very very slowly when downloading new mail and once again a reboot cures that. I found that the cure for that problem was to remove my new Outllook.com email address in the Start menu although it worked fine in there. Now I am getting a message that my Windows Home Server connector cannot locate my server, when the shortcut for the shared folders on my desktop still worked and also in the home network setup my server was absent but it was still working.

I have done so many hard resets that I am worried that this will eventually cause problems, then I remember it did as I had to run disk test but no errors were found. So it is my opinion that Windows 8 was rushed out too early as with all their software letting the public find out all the many other problems that arise with varying types of hardware.

My PC is new one with an Intel 3.9Ghz i7 3770k with 8Gb of fast ram with a 1Tb and 2Tb SATA 3 HDD's. I thought that buying the latest Intel i7 on the latest UEFI/GPT chipset would be the way to go, how wrong I was. So as I still have not finished installing all my other software, I think this weekend will be a downgrade as its driving me nuts and I cannot wait any longer. I will miss a few of the other features on the Start menu but I have them on my Samsung Galaxy SII anyway.

Colin
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Jan 16, 2013, 09:59:22
Quotebut I have them on my Samsung Galaxy SII anyway
I think that sums it up nicely. There is nothing "wrong" with windows 8. It's just the really useful, needed and wanted bits are hidden behind the useless, pointless unwanted parts. So for now, Windows 7 is nice and dandy. If I get a spare PC in here that will take it, might give win 8 a try. But when I like my manual shift car, I'll avoid those automatic "stick" ones.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Jan 16, 2013, 22:14:46
I still find that more older software runs straight away with windows 8 64 bit whereas with win 7 64 bit there was quite a bit of fiddling to do.  My machine is 2 years old and no problems at all.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Jan 17, 2013, 08:49:35
This thread in the main seems to be in four groops.

a) People who have put W8 onto their computer and in the main love it.

b) People who have tried the pre- release version and are basing their feelings on a incomplete version.

c) People who say they don't like the look of W8 and therefore are not going try it.

d) People who will not move across until the have to.

In the main people who have installed it may change some parts to suit themselves but most will leave it as it is as it so much faster and safer >:D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 17, 2013, 13:34:45
I'll take d, and c, in that order.  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Jan 17, 2013, 20:09:38
Retard  ::)  or should I say Retread?
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Jan 17, 2013, 21:35:27
For all the stick in the muds out there   ;)

Why not down load and run Classic Shell                      www.snipco.com/7907

Recommendation:  When the installation options appears:  click the Classic Explorer and Classic IE9 options  and choosing  "entire feature will be unavailable"  These features were designed for older versions of windows.

Once installed, a new start button appears on the task bar with a windows style Start Menu. To change the look of this right click the button and choose settings. Classic Shell also bypasses the new style Start screen to display the old style Windows Desktop immediately when Windows launches.

Hope this helps  ::)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Jan 18, 2013, 15:28:38
Looks like it was too popular, now reporting a 404 page not found error.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Jan 18, 2013, 18:55:28
It's not that others think your opinion is wrong, it's just it is not for them (or me in this case ;) ).

It's like telling my I should try lemon chicken, and thinking I have never tasted it, and would "love if you just ate some". I do actually like lemon chicken (windows 8), but I like sage and onion with garlic and tomatoes so much more that I'd never turn them down for something else. Oh, for a change I would, but not for my daily meal.

So likewise, I'm sticking to Windows 7 on my main machine for as long as I can imagine, because it tastes nice, fills a hole and gives me that warm cosy feeling.  :laugh:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Jan 18, 2013, 19:19:24
That's because I am  plonker   :red:

Should have read   www.snipca.com/7907   Try it now   :)x
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Glenn on Jan 18, 2013, 22:04:23
Can we quote you?  :)x
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Simon on Jan 18, 2013, 23:34:10
Oh, we will!   :evil:
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: camdave on Mar 08, 2013, 15:03:42
My wife and myself are both in our late sixties and have used PCs at work and in the home for the past twenty-five years starting with DOS. We currently have XP and Vista on two desktops due to be replaced in the next year.

We dropped in to PC World the other day and spent fifteen minutes or so 'playing' with a Windows 8 desktop and chatting to the (helpful) sales guy.

Our reactions? I had no great difficulty finding my way around and my wife said "It will be a challenge".

I realise that when we upgrade we may end up frustrated because an old HP printer won't install or a program only a year old won't run but generally I can't see what all the fuss is about, it's surely just a case of learning new techniques. To be honest I rather liked the UI.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Mar 08, 2013, 15:25:24
Bring back DOS!!!!

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Mar 08, 2013, 16:18:30
Most of the older printer drivers will normally work with the supplied drivers on Windows 8.  There is very little that doesn't seem to work.  Even a very old dot-matrix printer (15 years old) worked straight after installation.  Onwards and upwards as they say, time waits for no-one.  I have been involved with computers since the 70's building and programming them, so am often reluctant to change, this time with windows 8 it all becomes interesting again.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Mar 09, 2013, 12:03:31
I did not find anything that did not work, but I found quite a few things that work better with W8 than they did on Vista and W7.  :D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: .Griff. on Mar 09, 2013, 14:03:41
Quote from: camdave on Mar 08, 2013, 15:03:42or a program only a year old won't run

Why wouldn't a year old program run under Windows 8?

Too many myths and scaremongering out there.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: camdave on Mar 09, 2013, 15:20:12
I'm pleased that the responses so far are positive despite the 'anti-8' comments on various forums etc.

My comment regarding year old programs was perhaps not a good example of possible problems - what I was trying to saying was that whilst I don't expect a totally trouble free transition to Windows 8 overall I/we will have no fear of the new OS when the time comes.

I am already updating very old software which runs under XP but not Vista for example with Windows 8 compatible versions.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Glenn on Mar 09, 2013, 15:33:27
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_E1UxI5I_jo
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: .Griff. on Mar 09, 2013, 15:45:36
Anyone upgrading to Windows 8 really should take a look at these three programs -

Start8 - http://www.stardock.com/products/start8/
Decor8 - http://www.stardock.com/products/decor8/
Obly - http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1899865

I really didn't like the developers preview of Win8 but after forcing myself to try it again recently I'm converted. Not only does it run better that Win7 on my Nvidia Ion Netbook it also seems much more "polished" on my main PC.

(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v427/griff_90/metrodesktop_zpsa68ea2a4.png)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Mar 09, 2013, 18:14:15
I for one would not want to go back, Windows 8 runs smoother and faster. I always had a problem with Microsoft Works and updated to Works 9 with a clean install on Windows 7, but to no avail and as I had a database on it I did not want to change. It runs has it should do on Windows 8 without a glitch.  :)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Mar 09, 2013, 19:41:44
Quote from: camdave on Mar 09, 2013, 15:20:12

I am already updating very old software which runs under XP but not Vista for example with Windows 8 compatible versions.

All stuff that runs under windows xp runs extremely well under windows 8 32 bit rather than 64 bit, it is much like windows 7 32 bit where even 16 bit apps would run.  So if in doubt install 32 bit rather than 64 bit unless you want to install a virtual 32 bit machine.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: camdave on Mar 09, 2013, 19:57:20
That's interesting, we were using ULead PhotoImpact which runs under XP but would not install on Vista 32 bit.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Den on Mar 10, 2013, 09:38:07
I'm running Windows 8 64bit on all my machines (except my van).  ;D
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Mar 10, 2013, 09:47:40
Quote from: cavillas on Mar 09, 2013, 19:41:44
All stuff that runs under windows xp runs extremely well under windows 8 32 bit rather than 64 bit, it is much like windows 7 32 bit where even 16 bit apps would run.  So if in doubt install 32 bit rather than 64 bit unless you want to install a virtual 32 bit machine.
32 bit systems are so out of date now, in the last few years 64 bit has been the way to go.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Mar 10, 2013, 10:13:46
Quote from: camdave on Mar 09, 2013, 19:57:20
That's interesting, we were using ULead PhotoImpact which runs under XP but would not install on Vista 32 bit.

I had that same programme and managed to get it running under windows 7 both 32 and 64 bit, I used compatability settting.. Havent tried it on windows 8 as I don't need it now.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: cavillas on Mar 10, 2013, 10:16:38
Quote from: Gary on Mar 10, 2013, 09:47:40
32 bit systems are so out of date now, in the last few years 64 bit has been the way to go.

Being out of date doesn't make it useless, many things will still run under Win 7 32 bit that won't run under Win 7 64 bit, unless you have a virtual machine which many people find difficult to implement, especially on the Home edition..
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: pctech on Mar 10, 2013, 17:08:51
64-bit has only become prevalent as more and more RAM has been added to systems, that is really the only reason.

Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Apr 04, 2013, 23:55:31
Still very few programs actually use it though. One of the first times in history we have more ram than braincells, I mean use. (Exception being some video editing etc).
The gamers/PC enthusiasts getting 16GB systems when their games use 4GB max makes my eyes go ::)
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Ray on Apr 05, 2013, 09:50:36
I haven't come across any 32 bit programs yet that won't run on 64bit Windows, I've even got the 2004 version of Quicken running on my win 8 64bit PC.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Glenn on Apr 20, 2013, 17:07:51
Run Windows 8 on any machine using Windows to Go. It should only work with the Enterprise version, so bright spark have got around that, create your own USB bootable Win 8 OS http://www.neowin.net/forum/topic/1134268-tutorialwindows-8-to-go-without-enterprise-edition/

Using a USB 3 16GB USB pen drive it works well, I made one at work yesterday afternoon.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Steve on Apr 20, 2013, 18:31:02
I wonder if the trial edition ISO expires on the USB stick?
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Gary on Apr 21, 2013, 07:53:02
Quote from: Technical Ben on Apr 04, 2013, 23:55:31
Still very few programs actually use it though. One of the first times in history we have more ram than braincells, I mean use. (Exception being some video editing etc).
The gamers/PC enthusiasts getting 16GB systems when their games use 4GB max makes my eyes go ::)
Quite a few programs use it it these days. There is really no need to have a 32 bit OS anymore as far as compatibility is concerned. Even flash player (god help us) has a native 64 bit version. Many computers these days are now heading towards 8GB ram as a minimum as well.
Title: Re: Windows 8
Post by: Technical Ben on Apr 21, 2013, 16:59:36
Sorry, I was not referring 64bit, I don't see 32bit being supported/used much now so it's understandable. I don't know about these laptops with Windows 8 and 2gb ram, but I'd prefer 4. I'd understand 8gb. But there are those who suggest 16 and up to 32gb because "it makes games run faster", which is not correct as far as I can see. If Windows and the game neither need to use more than 8gb, what benefit is there? Perhaps load times, if Windows uses a clever cache into the ram, but if those "leet gamers" have SSDs already, the cost for half a second quicker load time into the desktop is not worth the couple of hundred quid. :P