Relax, most programs for XP will work with Vista

Q: With Windows Vista out, what type of software programs can one run? Will XP software work on Vista? I was thinking of programs such as Word, photo and movie software.

Does the 64-bit version of Vista run only 64-bit software programs? I have asked in some stores, and no one has an answer.

If I cannot use these software programs from my XP computer, it will cost much more for me to set up a new Vista computer next year.

Chris Lodahl, North Bend

A: Most programs written for Windows XP will work just fine with Windows Vista. But I have found a few exceptions.

I had to install Adobe Create Suite, for example, to a different directory than the default directory. Once I did, it worked just fine. My slide scanner and camera software don't work with Vista, so I'm awaiting updated software.

The latest version of iTunes works OK with Vista, except that I can't connect to my iPod.

Other than those glitches, everything is working just fine.

There is no complete and reliable listing of Vista-compatible software, but you may want to look at a couple of Web sites. The list is continually growing at ieXbeta's wiki: www.iexbeta.com/wiki/index.php/Windows_Vista_Software_Compatibility_List.

Microsoft also maintains some information, though it is kind of buried. Start your search at: Technet.microsoft.com/en-us/windowsvista/aa905066.aspx.

By the way, Vista is available in both a 32-bit and a 64-bit version. If you don't have a 64-bit processor, you'll want the 32-bit version. The 64-bit version, however, can run programs designed for 32-bit processors just fine.

Q: I have DSL but am constantly plagued by limited or no connectivity. The lack of connectivity usually exists during the mornings and evenings and on Sundays. This started only about two months ago.

I have had very poor troubleshooting service from AT&T, my service provider. It is always the same: unplug and replug the power cord to the modem. Then they have me go to the PC's Control Panel to reset AT&T's user name and password — a tedious process.

The final step is they will send a technician out to troubleshoot. If they find it is in their lines and system, they won't charge me; but if they determine it is in my system, there is a charge of $149. I have never asked for the technician even though I believe the problem is in their system.

As I understand DSL, it is like a pipeline. It will accept just so many inputs then tolerate no more. I believe AT&T has filled up the pipeline with customers. Have others had this problem with DSL? Is there a limited capability?

Tom Deschner, Normandy Park

A: You're probably thinking of cable Internet service. If you have cable Internet service, the more people on your "loop" who are accessing the Internet, the more likely you will see your bandwidth go down. That's not the case with DSL Internet service.

Instead, my guess is you've got line problems. DSL runs on your telephone line, and it is possible there's a problem with the line or with the equipment at the telephone substation.

As you say, the Internet service provider will check the equipment at the substation. If it doesn't find a problem, it will offer to send out a technician under the terms you describe.

If it were me, I'd follow the troubleshooting guidelines your ISP offers. If that doesn't solve the problem I'd call in the technician, even though there's a risk of having to pay the extra charge.

Q: I have two USB ports on my motherboard. Recently, I lost one of them as the result of an electrical charge from outside. I am still able to use the other port. I'm concerned about possibly losing the other port in a similar incident.

Is there any way I can add USB ports to my motherboard by, for instance, adding a card with one or more USB ports?

David Mack

A: The answer is yes. Just go to any computer store or Web site, and you'll see a variety of USB add-in cards to choose from. Most offer four USB 2.0 ports. Expect to pay less than $50 for such a card.

Questions for Patrick Marshall may be sent by e-mail to pmarshall@seattletimes.com or pgmarshall@pgmarshall.net, or by mail at Q&A/Technology, The Seattle Times, P.O. Box 70, Seattle, WA 98111. More columns at www.seattletimes.com/columnists.