Maximum PC Vista SP1 RSS Feed

Celebrate (?!) Vacation Season with Microsoft Updates

Mark 'Marcus_Soperus' Soper — Wed, 28 May 2008 08:00:01 -0500

Although the calendar says that summer doesn't start until June 21st, everyone else knows that once Memorial Day passes, it's time for fun! However, if you want your Windows XP or Windows Vista PC to keep up with summertime hobbies (and help you get your work done after you get back from vacation), take a few minutes to make sure you get the latest patches.

Windows XP SP3's First Update

Windows XP SP3 has already caused its share of grief for installers, and now there's a brand-new problem:

- Your system might not be able to resolve DNS after you connect/disconnect or disable/enable a network adapter used for Internet Connection Sharing on a system running XP SP3.

To learn more about the problem and to download the fix, check out KB951830.

A Platoon of Patches for Windows Vista

Windows Vista users have plenty of patches to consider before running off on vacation. They include:

- A fix for SATA hard disks running in PATA mode if the system stops responding (KB943170)
- A fix for applications using Microsoft Jet 4.0 Database Engine after the system is updated to Vista SP1 (KB943509)
- A fix for Vista SP1's inability to write to a Blu-Ray Disc Rewritable or write-protected DVD-RAM disc after disabling the disc's write-protection (KB950194)
- Also, the May 2008 Application Compatibility Update for Windows Vista (originally announced in early April) is finally showing up in Windows Update (KB947652). It can also be downloaded manually.

Have fun this summer!

Here Comes Vista SP1, Automatically

Mark 'Marcus_Soperus' Soper — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 21:50:59 -0500

If you haven't updated to Vista SP1 yet, Microsoft has now started the process of sending it to you automatically via Windows Update - if you use the English, German, French, Spanish, or Japanese versions. The other language packs will be released to automatic distribution by mid-May.

Don't panic if you don't see Vista SP1 show up immediately. According to Chris Flores' announcement today at the Windows Vista Team Blog:

While we're beginning automatic distribution today, you might not see it right away since the distribution process is very gradual. As I called out on April 7th, we'll be distributing the service pack slowly so that we can help Windows users have a good experience.

On April 7th, he wrote:

We have a lot of Windows users, so not everyone will get it on the same day. In fact, it will go to a small percentage of Windows Vista users each day. The exact timing of when you will receive it depends on when your PC is ready for Windows Vista SP1.

And Now, the Bonus Question: How Long Should You Wait for Vista SP1?

Good question. A better question is, "have you made sure your system is ready for Vista SP1?"

Microsoft has made it very clear that a system with any one of eight problems won't be offered Vista SP1 automatically, either by Windows Update or its corporate sibling, Automatic Updates. We first discussed the causes and recommended solutions last month, but you should also consult the newly-updated version of Microsoft Knowledge Base article 948343 we cited.

Version 7.0 of this article adds additional causes and solutions:

- Sierra Wireless AirCard 580 with Watcher.exe v3.4.0.9 or earlier (an update is available from Sierra)
- Symantec driver for Symantec Endpoint Protection and Symantec Network Access Control clients (updates are available from Symantec)
- Fujitsu-Siemens Amilo LA 1703 notebook computers with BIOS release dates of March 14, 2008 or earlier (a BIOS update is forthcoming; look for version 8.6 or later)
- Hiding updates needed as prerequisites for Service Pack 1 (unhide these updates)

To Wait for WU, or Download It Yourself - That Is the Question

If you've assured yourself that your system isn't on the "naughty list," what are your alternatives?

- Wait for Windows Update to deliver SP1 automatically
- Download SP1 and install it manually (links for five-language SP1 available here; links for the all-language versions available here)

Need more help with getting ready for Vista SP1? See our extensive coverage.

Finally, More Windows Ultimate Extras [Updated]

Mark Soper — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 22:27:54 -0500

One of the big selling points for Windows Vista Ultimate, aside from its integration of the features of Vista Home Premium, Enterprise, and Business in a single (expensive) Vista edition, has been the promise of exclusive content packs, known as Windows Vista Ultimate Extras. Unfortunately, these bonus applications have been very slow in arriving.

The Ultimate Extras Scene, Up Until Now

Although the first Ultimate Extras, Hold'em Poker and BitLocker Drive Preparation tool with EFS enhancements, were introduced in February 2007, along with DreamScene Preview, a beta of its live-video wallpaper, it took much longer for additional content to surface.

More DreamScene live-video wallpapers showed up in March 2007 as part of the DreamScene Content Pack, but it wasn't until September that Microsoft rolled out the completed version of DreamScene. The 34 language packs also developed to enable Vista Ultimate users to use the Multilingual User Interface have been offered at various times (and withdrawn), but are available again with the advent of Service Pack 1.

So, What's New?

This week, Microsoft has rolled out a third set of live-video wallpapers for DreamScene, as well as two new sound schemes: Glass and Pearl. To get Ultimate Extras, use Windows Update.

Listening Closely to Glass and Pearl

First, I installed the new Glass and Pearl Sound Schemes. Windows uses the default sound scheme to play sounds for various events, such as emptying the Recycle Bin, starting and closing Windows, and many more. To modify a sound scheme or select one of the optional sound schemes in Windows Vista, use Control Panel's Personalization menu, available in the Hardware and Sound category.

According to Microsoft's new UltimatePC website (the replacement for the original WindowsUltimate website), the Glass sound scheme "makes the sounds seem like they are played on 'glass' instruments," while the Pearl sound scheme features "a richer, milky, more percussive sonic palate."

[following sections updated 4-25-08]

It's easy to hear the differences for yourself, but not if you listen to the same event in different sound schemes without listening to a different event first. As reader ericlinna points out in his comment, there's a glitch in the way Vista handles event sounds when you're using the Test function. His solution? Play a sound event in the Default scheme, switch to the Pearl or Glass scheme, play a different sound event, then play the original sound event in the new scheme. There's a big difference, all right. Kudos to ericlinna! Note to Microsoft: please fix the glitch, OK?

You'll have to judge those descriptions for yourself. When I used my office's 2.1 speaker system to play a variety of sounds in the Windows Default, Glass, and Pearl schemes, it was very difficult for me to tell one scheme from another, especially at low volumes. However, if you connect your PC to a high-quality 5.1 surround audio system with good speakers, a headset, or your home theater system, you might hear more significant differences.

Giving DreamScene a Closer Look

If you're new to Windows Ultimate Extras, you need to download and install DreamScene before you can download any of the content packs, including the new #3 Content Pack. Make sure your system has a Windows Experience Index of at least 3.0 if you want to use DreamScene.

DreamScene includes one animated wallpaper (vid1337, an animated version of the default img24 Vista wallpaper). The DreamScene Content Pack adds four additional animations: vid8897 (wild clover in a field), vid8898 (raindrops falling on a puddle at night), vid8899 (water flowing over rocks in a stream), and vid9899 (a computer-generated wall of fire). The DreamScene Content Pack Favorites adds vid1999 (an aura glimmering around a Vista icon-shaped planet), vid8896 (a waterfall and rapids), and vid9898 (marbles moving past machinery). The new DreamScene Content Pack #3 includes vid7997 (water dripping from a leaf), vid7999 (autumn leaves blowing gently in the breeze), and vid8895 (water dripping from an icicle). Here's how they look in the Desktop Backgrounds menu:

To select a DreamScene animation, right-click the desktop, select Personalize, click Desktop Background, select Windows DreamScene Content, and click the animation you want to use. DreamScenes are designed for widescreen displays, so if you use a 4:3 (TV-format) display, select the Center or Maintain Aspect Ratio options for most pleasing results.

Summing Up

If you don't have a terrific speaker system, high-quality headphones, or if you usually turn off the Default Windows sound scheme, you might not find it worthwhile to try the Glass or Pearl sound schemes. However, DreamScene makes a big difference to your desktop.

If you like audio indications of what's happening on your system, the Pearl and Glass sound schemes add your choice of sophisticated touches to your audio environment.

DreamScene videos are relaxing, have minimal impact on most system tasks (provided your system has a Windows Experience Index of at least 3.0), and can be paused and restarted. To pause DreamScene, right-click your desktop and select Pause DreamScene. To restart animation, right-click your Desktop and select Play DreamScene.

If you like DreamScene, you can make your own DreamScene videos by downloading Stardock's DreamMaker.

[updated 4-25-2008]

Weekend Update: Microsoft Edition, April 2008 [updated]

Mark Soper — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 22:10:40 -0500

Want Bluetooth 2.1 Support in Vista? This Feature Pack's for You

This week, Microsoft rolled out the Windows Vista Feature Pack for Wireless, Vista's first-ever feature pack. This feature pack adds support for Bluetooth version 2.1, provides updates to Microsoft's Connect Now wireless network configuration technology, and adds support for the "Unified Pairing" user interface (whatever that is). Any Vista SP1 edition qualifies for this feature pack. Learn more by visiting KB942567.

[updated 4-19-08] Note that you must contact the computer manufacturer to obtain this update. Unfortunately, Microsoft's list of manufacturers is extremely outdated, filled with many defunct vendors and lacking website information in many cases.

If your system is a prebuilt system with an integrated Bluetooth transceiver, contact the system vendor for more information. If you built your system yourself (in true Maximum PC DIY fashion), contact your mobo vendor (if your mobo has integrated Bluetooth) or the transceiver vendor (if you use an add-on Bluetooth device).

To learn more about Bluetooth 2.1's new features, the UK PC Pro website has a useful roundup.

Microsoft Sees Higher (or Lower) Fares in Your Future!

Why? Microsoft bought Farecast, a Seattle-based travel search site, this week. Farecast offers a unique service that predicts future ticket price trends on flights between cities and recommends whether you should buy your tickets now or wait for a better deal. So, should you expect to see Microsoft join the ranks of Expedia.com, Priceline.com, and the rest of the low-cost travel websites? Probably not. Speculation is rife that Farecast's technology, not its specific market niche, is the attraction to Ballmer & Co.

If you'd like to see what the fuss is about and can't log onto the Farecast website, take a look at screen shots and an 2007 interview with Farecast's founder here. Note that Farecast uses open-source software and commodity hardware. It will be interesting to see what happens if Farecast switches over to an all-Microsoft back end.

Start with Live, Pick Up Office, Arrive in Albany

Neowin.net reports that Microsoft's code-named "Albany" software subscription service is now being beta-tested. "Albany" contains Live One Care, Microsoft Office Student and Teacher edition, Office Live Workspace, Live Messenger, Live Mail, and Live Photo Gallery. For more information, see this PC World article.

Catch the Next Wave - of Vista SP1 (Updated)

Mark 'Marcus_Soperus' Soper — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 13:57:58 -0500

Vista SP1 Now No Longer Only for the Favored Few

Yesterday, Microsoft released the All Language standalone downloads for Vista SP1, enabling users who need SP1 in languages other than US English, French, German, Japanese or Spanish (Traditional) to update their systems (36 languages in all). Choose your favorite installation method.

x86 (32-bit) Versions

The 32-bit x86 version is available as a 544.3MB executable file or as a 544.4MB CD ISO image.

x64 (64-bit) Version

The x64 version is available as an 873MB executable file.

Universal x86/x64 Version

Redmond also provides a "universal" 1418.1MB DVD ISO image that contains both the x86 and x64 editions. The DVD and CD image files use the .ISO extension.

Windows Update (updated 04-16-08)

The additional language packs are also available via Windows Update, but must be selected manually.

Catch the Correct Wave

If you're juggling five-language and all-language downloads of Windows Vista SP1, there's an easy way to tell which is which: the five-language downloads include wave0 as part of the filename, while the all-language downloads include wave1 as part of the filename.

For More About Vista SP1...

...be sure to review our extensive coverage.

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New to Windows Vista? Find out what makes Vista new, different, better and sometimes just plain annoying in Mark's book Maximum PC Microsoft Windows Vista Exposed. It's now available at Amazon.com and other fine bookstores.

Patch Tuesday Goodies for Windows Vista Users

Mark 'Marcus_Soperus' Soper — Mon, 07 Apr 2008 17:11:12 -0500

Fix On the Way for Endless Reboot/Reinstall with KB937287

When Windows Vista SP1 rolled out as an optional update via Windows Update last month, some users had problems with one of the required prerequisite updates: KB937287, which updates the Servicing Stack.

Some systems got stuck in an endless reboot/reinstall cycle which prevented users from ever getting Vista SP1 offered via Windows Update. Workarounds have been developed (some are listed in the previous link, or you could follow this link to the standalone install versions of the update), but for users who didn't want to install the update manually or download the full install version of Vista SP1 (available here), the problems with KB937287 were annoying - and resulted in the update being pulled from Windows Update.

Here's the good news: starting Tuesday 4-8-08, KB937287's coming back to Windows Update with a precursor update (KB949939) that will check for problems and correct them before KB937287 is installed. If you already have this update installed or already have installed Vista SP1 manually, you're home free. But if you've been waiting for a fix, Windows Update will deliver it to you starting tomorrow.

More Updates for Vista Coming Tomorrow

Other Vista updates due on Patch Tuesday include:

- Fix for crashes in the Ks.sys file (KB050127)
- Update for Windows Mail Junk Email filter (April 2008 edition - KB905866)

Once all of the details for Patch Tuesday updates are released, we'll have the details here.

Get Ready for Windows XP SP3 (and Learn More About Vista SP1)

Mark 'Marcus_Soperus' Soper — Sun, 23 Mar 2008 22:42:55 -0500

Getting Up to Speed on What's New in XP SP3

There are numerous signs that Windows XP Service Pack 3 is about to go live, very possibly on Monday (however, the Tech ARP website claims the release is being delayed until mid-April). Whether it launches this month or next, one of the best signs that XP SP3 is about to become a reality is Microsoft's reposting of the Windows XP Service Pack 3 Overview. It's become a Microsoft tradition to post operating system overviews shortly before a new operating system or service pack goes live. It's available in either PDF (requires Adobe Reader or other PDF reader) or XPS (requires XPS Viewer or XPS Essentials pack, both available here.

Here are a few highlights:

- SP3 consolidates previously-released updates into a single package (for more information, see our original article on Windows XP SP3 Release Candidate)
- SP3 is a cumulative release (you can install it over any previous Windows XP version)
- SP3 is for 32-bit versions of Windows XP only; the x64 edition of Windows XP Professional was updated by Windows Server 2003 SP2.
- SP3 takes about 70MB to download via Windows Update, or about 580MB via the download center
- SP3 introduces Network Access Protection (NAP) to help Windows XP users to use new features in Windows Server 2008
- IE7 haters can rejoice at this news: XP SP3 does not include Internet Explorer 7.

Keep clicked to this website for news of the official release of Windows XP SP3.

Updated Information for Windows Vista Users

Microsoft has rolled out a new release of its Windows Vista Product Guide that includes the changes made in SP1. This 334-page magnum opus includes seven sections:

- An introduction to Windows Vista
- Windows Vista versions
- Features for all users
- Features for home users
- Features for business users
- Features for IT professionals
- Appendices

You can download it in your choice of XPS or PDF formats. If you're just now considering Windows Vista, it might be worth reading "cover to cover".

For existing Vista users who are mainly focusing on Vista SP1 changes, download the companion, Windows Vista Product Guide Revision Document, a relatively svelte 63-pager that covers only the changes from the original product guide.

Happy updating!

No Vista SP1 via Windows Update? We Have the Solutions!

Mark Soper — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 18:07:36 -0500

Microsoft Knowledge Base article 948343 lists eight reasons why Vista RTM (aka "original Vista") users might not be offered Vista SP1 through Windows Update. As you might expect, some of them are blindingly obvious:

If you're already running Vista SP1 (or a pre-release version of Vista SP1), Windows Update's not going to offer it to you again. D'oh!
As stated in our checklist of preparations for Vista SP1, you need to uninstall pre-release versions of Vista SP1 before WU will provide a link to the final version of SP1.
Right now, only users of English, German, Japanese, French, and Spanish versions of Vista can download Vista SP1. User of other languages must wait until later to get Vista SP1.
If you run Vista on a corporate PC, your company might be using the Service Pack Blocker Tool to delay installation.

However, some causes are a bit more subtle and require a bit more work to fix.

Bad Drivers, Bad! Update These Drivers, or You'll Never See Windows Vista SP1!

KB948343 finally gives us a list of known drivers that prevent WU from offering Vista SP1. Products with problem drivers include:

- Realtek AC'97 audio
- SigmaTel audio
- Creative Labs Audigy audio
- Conexant HD Audio
- Authentec and UPEK fingerprint sensors
- Intel integrated graphics
- TI Smart Card Controller
- Sierra Wireless AirCard 580
- Symantec Endpoint Protection and Network Access Control clients

Logitech QuickCam also has a problem, but it's a problem with a Microsoft-provided Vista driver - in other words, don't blame the camera! KB948343 has a complete list of affected driver versions and solutions, most of which can be summed up this: get updated driver versions!

CheckSUR to the Rescue!

Vista SP1 might not be offered to your system if your computer's file system, registry, or system files are fouled up. The new CheckSUR update, which I wrote about in the announcement of Vista SP1's release for download, is designed to fix problems that prevent Vista SP1 or future updates from running. If Windows Update offers you this update (KB947821 explains it in detail), run it to get your system in shape.

Got vLite? Maybe You Shrank Vista Too Much!

Another major reason Redmond lists for not being able to get Windows Vista SP1 via WU is if you're trying to update a vLite-customized version of Vista. As we warned you on page 2 of our vLite writeup:

Keep in mind, though, that a vLite-customized version of Vista isn't compatible with SP1.

This doesn't mean that everyone who used vLite to install Vista is up a creek until they do a reinstall of Windows Vista: only those who used vLite to discard Vista components need to perform a reinstall. If you fall into this category, read the next paragraph for some good news about vLite.

If you used vLite only to integrate hotfixes and drivers, you can remove a registry key to make your system "see" Windows Update's offering of Vista SP1. See the vLite Service Pack page for details. This page also ofers a link to a method you can try for creating a Vista SP1 install image from your Vista RTM disc through a process called "reverse integration."

Wait Your Turn, SP1!

The last major reason you might not be seeing Vista SP1 in Windows Update is that you might need to install other updates first. Make sure you install all recommended or important updates displayed when you check for updates. After that, if there are no other problems with your system, Windows Update will display Vista SP1 in your WU list - and you can update your system.

(a hat tip is in order to Neowin.net forum poster Chrono951 for the KB article link)