Jim wrote:
> "ToddAndMargo" <ToddAndMargo@invalid.com> wrote in message
> news:O9HKMeWyHHA.4652@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
>> Hi All,
>>
>> I need to upgrade a customer's computer from
>> Vista Home Basic to XP-Pro (several of their
>> mission critical software, such as UPS World Ship
>> do not run in Vista).
>>
>> Is there a reason for me to reformat the hard
>> drive or will the existing Vista NTFS format
>> also work with XP? (I do plan on removing the
>> current Windows directory with Bart PE before
>> upgrading).
>>
>> Many thanks,
>> -T
>
> As Bruce said, you are really downgrading.
>
> Yes, to downgrade has always required a clean install.
>
> Also, 40 lashes for the clueless person who installed Vista without first
> checking that a piece of mission critical software would run on Vista.
>
> Jim
>
>
Hi Bruce and Jim,
Thanks for the info. I will copy anything needed
off to a thumb drive before upgrading (consumer's
point of view)/downgrading (technical point of view).
Then wipe.
Interesting. From a technical standpoint, installing
a lower revision is a downgrade. From a consumer's point
of view, removing a version that doesn't work and installing
one that does, is an upgrade, regardless of the revision
number. The consumer looks at it as either it works
or it doesn't. They have no patience with the technical
nuance as to why this or that works or doesn't work.
They almost never call and ask. But, if they are willing
to pay for the upgrade/downgrade graciously, then
no harm no foul.
All XP programs should have been automatically
compatible with Vista, but this not being an ideal
world ... (Someday, maybe ...)
--T
