Running v3.0 and v3.5 on Windows 7

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Problem: Is there any way to run older versions of the birding software on a Windows 7 computer?

Solution: Yes. Windows 7 has a feature called XP mode. You can open this and see a "virtual" desktop that looks just like the XP operating system of old. [Click the Start button, then click Virtual PC and then click Windows XP Mode.] While you are inside the XP Mode, you can install and run version 3.1.2 or v3.5.4.

However, both of these versions are very old and obsolete, so you should seriously consider upgrading to the latest version. Click the links below to see a comparison between the older version and the latest version:
v3.1 vs. v4
v3.5 vs. v4

You can order the latest version at Online Nature Mall.

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There are some specific hardware and software features you need on your Windows 7 computer in order to use the XP Mode. For example, you must have Windows 7 Professional, Enterprise, or Ultimate to run Windows XP Mode. The Premium version will not work. Check with your local computer guru if you need help setting it up.

I ran into two issues when I set v3.5.4 up on my Windows 7 computer. First I got an error message telling me I was missing file comdlg.dll and after I had installed that, I got another error message telling me I was missing file MSCOMCTL.ocx. The good news is that both of these files are available from the Get Help section of our web site.

I found that I needed to be in the XP mode before I went to www.ThayerBirding.com to download these two files. I downloaded both to the XP Mode desktop. Then, still in the XP Mode desktop, I clicked the Start circle in the lower left corner. Then I right-clicked "My Computer". Then I left-clicked "Explore". Then I went to C: > Program Files > Thayer Birding Software > eviewer. I double-clicked on eviewer and a list of files appeared on the right. Then I dragged and dropped the comdlg.dll file and the MSCOMCTL.ocx file into eviewer.

I was then able to double-click on the Thayer Birding icon on the XP Mode desktop and run the program -- just like the good old days.

If you do not have a v3.5.4 disc, you can still download the update from our web site in the Get Help section > Free Downloads > Windows v3.5.4 Update.

Finally, if you are trying to run v3.0 or v3.1 in XP mode from within Windows 7, you will need to also get the program from our web site that does away with the need to register within 30 days. You can find this link on our Home page -- just scroll down until you see the box that says "Are You Still Using version 3.0 or 3.1?" That link will take you to the file you need. Or click Here.