-----Original Message-----
From: Yoke Lim Chew [mailto:[log in to unmask]] 

>Q1 for 7: Presumably 7 also needs space for the swap file. I have 8G RAM.
>Is it a good idea to use a dedicated partition for the swap file in 7? If so, how much space should I provide?

Swap file considerations are essentially the same

>I have many XP programs which I would like to use in 7. I can, of course, continue to run them on the XP PC, which I am retaining, but I believe that in 7 there >is an option to install a component allowing XP programs to run in 7.

>Q2 for 7: Is it a good idea to install the XP component? If installed, can
>7 64-bit run XP 32-bit programs?

This is the XP mode that is available. It does allow older programs to run almost seamlessly. However, there is a speed penalty. Startup of the XP mode has a delay. On a fast computer, it is tolerable. Since you are actually running 32 bit XP in a virtual machine, all XP 32-bit programs should run fine (if slower).

>Q3 for 7: Can 7 64-bit programs still read files created on XP 32-bit programs - assuming 7 programs are backward compatible?

Data will not be affected by switching to a 64-bit OS. However, some 32-bit PROGRAMS will not run under the 64-bit OS.

I think you will like Win 7 once you get used to all its features.

Peter Shkabara
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