I program Elan stuff, I usually have the last three or four versions of ViaTools on my computer, I program AMX, I keep Studio 1.2 through the current Netlinx Sutdio on my computer, three versions of Lutron Homeworks interactive AND the old Homeworks (non-interactive) Hell I still have prontoedit pre 4.0 as well as 4.0.

I don't think many of you will ask why I have all these programs, we all know the headaches (and risks) of uploading older files with newer programs, or the reverse.

So the question becomes: Why can't I have three versions of PENG??!! Currently I have three laptops and have to remember which version my customer has so I can take the correct laptop to upload, then save to a disc and open it in a different computer with an updated PENG.

WHY!!!???

How difficult could it be for philips to allow us to have multiple versions on the same machine.

P.S. I want to use the word 'invisiblize' but just can't think of a way it relates to this topic.

I keep the old versions too. Since I only have one laptop to use for work material I have to uninstall and reinstall software to get the job done. Waste of time. Sometimes it is more beneficial to make a small change without updating firmware. In this case I would definately have to load the older version of software.

I am currently using both ProntoEdit 4.0 AND ProntoEdit NG on the same Win98 2nd ed. PC with no problems!!!

Slade

The problem is trying to use different versions of PENG on one computer. You cannot install the new one without un-installing the old one.

I have a workaround suggestion. It's not very elegant, but it beats multiple laptops. Also, it should only set you back around $10.

Using an older software program called System Commander, whenever I boot my laptop, I can choose between using Windows 2000, Windows 98 2nd Edition, Linux, or MS-DOS. Each of these are installed in separate logical partitions on the laptop.

When the computer boots, I make a menu selection about which one I need for that session. When I want to switch to another operating system, I simply reboot.

I use my multi-OS config for programming with various flavors of industrial PLC software. I could just as easily have set up several completely separate installations of the same operating system. I have no problem copying files from one partition (logical drive) to another, either.

I just checked eBay (where I originally bought my copy) and found a similar deal. Try doing an eBay search for item number 3674665524 or for System Commander. You'll find you can get the software including shipping for a little more than $10.

Plus if anybody else needs it, I noticed the guy was selling six copies. (And before you ask, no, I am not the seller).

So, like I said, it's not an elegant solution, but here goes:
1. choose your favorite laptop, preferably the one with the biggest harddrive so you can fit the most partitions (depending on which operating system you choose, each new partition will need to be at least several hundred MB)
2. backup all your data (just in case)
3. let the software step you thru repartitioning your harddrive into three (or more) separate bootable partitions
4. let the software step you thru installing your multiple operating systems on the new partitions
5. install as many copies of older software on their own separate partitions with their own separate operating systems
6. donate the other two laptops to a local charity

Hope this helps...





This message was edited by i1patrick on 04/29/04 22:21.