VPCZ13 and WinXP64 - possible?

Hi,

I used to have older Z series device (Vista w/XP32 downgrade option). I tried to install XP64 with this one. Failed on some things. First of all - many Sony custom drivers and utilities are missing. But major problem for starters is the Nvidia driver. Although the driver tweaking went OK and XP64 "bought" it smoothly, I couldn't get control over backlight intensity. And this is important because using full backlight in dark room makes my eyes explode.

Second issue are the utilities. Did anyone found something useful for Z series from other types and working witch x64? I'm tempted by trying XP64 on this new device, because later it will be more complicated to reinstall everything.

To be clear: I'm not considering win7, because I'm a user of some custom, heavily secured graphic software which is not working under win7 and won't be in near future (serious authorization problems). XP is only option for me and with XP32 it's simply a shame that so much memory is wasted.

Thanks in advance for any support on this subject,
Vojtek

 

Have you considered running a virtual machine? It may be perfect for this situation if the graphics hardware emulation is worked out properly.

 

you can use win7 XP mode.

 

Win7 64 was a widely unsupported environment. I'd figure out another way, ie VM or stick w/32bit.

 

win7 is not an option unfortunately. x64 nor x32. problems with authorization is with both. xp mode is also not usable. this software of mine requires some unorthodox drive mapping (which is not working in xp mode) and full network access (which doesn't work either).

Past couple of hours I was snooping for drivers/utilities for other sony laptops that would work for XP64 system (also checked those working for win7 x64). no result. seems that I'm stuck with XP32. pity. I was hoping I would contribute with some tutorial how to do it. I know many other people were interested in this.

Vojtek

 

Why isn't XP64 in a VM an option?

 

because it's way too slow and same authorization problems (dongle via virtual usb).

Vojtek

 

Are you sure your dongle even works under xp64? From my experience, driver and software support was HORRIBLE for xp64...and then you'll have all the Sony issues you are already seeing.

 

dongle is working. some newer apps are "seeing" it. getting the number correctly. but some older stuff - written specifically for XP - can't deal with it. I know for sure that it is working with XP x64. that's why I started this thread. win7 is a problem. well - I guess I'll stay with old XP32. I'm still grateful that Sony releases drivers and possibility to downgrade.

V

 

my z12 have xp downgrade disk. you can check with support guys to check if it available or not.