I'm making this in the hopes that some of you folks can give me advice and answers (As many of you are so skilled at doing). Fear not if I don't answer immediately with thanks; I'll be at work while this topic (hopefully) gathers some replies... Now for some questions.
1. I'm looking to buy Vista Home Premium. I understand the physical requirements and am well-suited for them. But are there any other requirements, especially regarding the type of Vista package I want? Do I need to have Windows XP on a harddrive before installing Vista? Do I need Basic AND Premium? Or does is that package a true stand-alone installation? I ask because I find it amazing that it only costs $160 while Windows XP with SP2 still costs $200. Is there a sneaky reason why it's marked "Upgrade" (As in, it's only an upgrade and you need to also have some core component; I lost money this way when I bought the "Abode Photoshop CS2 Upgrade" without first having Adobe Photoshop)?
2. Does Vista support all the programs Windows XP supports? Is it just a matter of installing the program, or will I have to perform work-arounds for a variety of programs not specifically marked "Vista-Ready" or what-not? What about games (Like Battlefield 2142, the Matrix Online, Half-Life 2, etc)?
3. I've heard disturbing things about Windows Vista and how it makes the system run slower... I was under the impression that the new OS is supposed to organize functions better while providing a (perhaps subjective, but I like it) slick interface?
4. There's also talk about drivers. If I do a fresh install, will Windows XP/2000 drivers work? If not, and I believe it will be the case, does nVidia have new drivers exclusively for Vista in relation with my eVGA 7600GS?
The first question is really my most important question and will determine my purchase. But, anyways... Thanks in advance.
1. I'm looking to buy Vista Home Premium. I understand the physical requirements and am well-suited for them. But are there any other requirements, especially regarding the type of Vista package I want? Do I need to have Windows XP on a harddrive before installing Vista? Do I need Basic AND Premium? Or does is that package a true stand-alone installation? I ask because I find it amazing that it only costs $160 while Windows XP with SP2 still costs $200. Is there a sneaky reason why it's marked "Upgrade" (As in, it's only an upgrade and you need to also have some core component; I lost money this way when I bought the "Abode Photoshop CS2 Upgrade" without first having Adobe Photoshop)?
2. Does Vista support all the programs Windows XP supports? Is it just a matter of installing the program, or will I have to perform work-arounds for a variety of programs not specifically marked "Vista-Ready" or what-not? What about games (Like Battlefield 2142, the Matrix Online, Half-Life 2, etc)?
3. I've heard disturbing things about Windows Vista and how it makes the system run slower... I was under the impression that the new OS is supposed to organize functions better while providing a (perhaps subjective, but I like it) slick interface?
4. There's also talk about drivers. If I do a fresh install, will Windows XP/2000 drivers work? If not, and I believe it will be the case, does nVidia have new drivers exclusively for Vista in relation with my eVGA 7600GS?
The first question is really my most important question and will determine my purchase. But, anyways... Thanks in advance.