It looks as though CS2 is only 32bit software. Paintshop Pro X9 can be either 32 or 64 bit. If you haven't run into problems with the size of images you are working with, you might as well stay with 32bit windows. Note that more than 4GB of memory is wasted on a 32 bit OS.

I have found that the '2000' versions of Excel, Word and Access run happily on my updated last week W10 64bit. I have one or two specialist programs that will only run on W4W, and an old desktop is still used for those!

Go for 64bit. 99% of all 32bit programs will run on 64bit pc's. You can then use all the available memory you have.

I use several 32bit programs on a 64bit machine. If you have the serial numbers for your programs there should be no problems redownloading them and reinstalling on the new machine.

regards

I wasn't trying to imply that 32 bit software doesn't run properly on the 64 bit versions of windows (I'm sitting at such a combination), it's just that if Those are the only programs that Nathan is interested in, he might not need access to more than 4GB of memory, so might see little benefit from using Wx 64.

You'll have to suck it and see. Running old software on a new computer is always a risky business and the answer ranges between 'no problem at all' to 'massive waste of time and money'.

Trouble is that 32-bit desktops and laptops are obsolete. During the last 20 years+ processors, operating systems and applications have all moved step by step in stages from 32-bit to 64-bit technology. During the transition a lot of effort was put into maintaining backwards compatibility, typically over no more than 3 steps. Unfortunately these measures were intended to give people more time to make the transition: they we're never designed to keep old software going forever.

If you're lucky, it will 'just work'. Or not! Don't be surprised if you plunge into difficulties with memory models, device drivers, and peripheral incompatibilities.

The simplest solution is to replace your old equipment with exactly the same – if you can find one! Failing that something similar.

A more complicated answer is to host your old software and operating system on a Virtual Machine running on a new computer. The Virtual Machine allows one operating system to host another operating on the same computer; thus Windows 10 host Windows XP. Outside the VM it's 2018, inside it's 2001. No guarantees it will work and it can be complicated to set-up.

Professionally we avoided getting into situations like this because the uncertainty makes providing a service unpredictable. Instead all computer systems came with an through-life plan, which – in theory – ensured that money would be budgeted and wheels set in motion to replace the system before it died of old age. Unfortunately this means getting on the upgrade treadmill, which is annoying and expensive when old software does all that's needed with minimum fuss. Until something goes wrong!

Dave

If you are thinking of a 'new' machine, (i.e. refurbished) ask the seller to install W7 64 bit Professional. No compatabilitry problems and as much RAM as you want. My latest will be such, with 16 Gb RAM – ,,, sitting on the desk, waiting for me to obtain a circular tuit!!

rgds

Bill

I'm no expert but plugging each into a cheapo surge protector should do the job OK – yes????

Rik

The only progs I need are CS2 and Paint shop X9

Stick with the 32 bit if I was you

If you want 64bit use/buy another machine

Like I told my computer customers many years ago; In a thunderstorm unplug your your landline phone and modem as there are no devices readily available that can withstand the energy of a nearby lightning strike.

Even the power companies cannot prevent outages when a thunderbolt hits their lines.

* Danny M *

Edited By Danny M2Z on 01/12/2018 08:12:15

As previous response have said the existing protection on telephones lines is basic and will not help when you have a strike close by. The standard master socket from BT uses a spark gap device, this is defined as the primary protection element. The let through energy will still be high, you could make up some secondary line protection using MOVs and TVS diodes. If you search the web I am sure you will find some ideas what is needed. It is important that you have good grounding/earthing to make any protection elements fully effective.

By chance i have just found 2 protection sub assemblies from RS whilst clearing out some junk, if you pm me with your address I will post them to you, assuming you are in the UK.

Hugh