Windows 7 - Windows 7 (7000) X64 Sidebar Flash Player Fix

I wasn't sure what forum to put this in, so I figure I will start here and if it needs moved I can move it.

After getting Windows 7 x64 installed, I was having a problem getting the Pandora Gadget to work. It turns out this gadget uses Flash, which only comes in a 32 bit version. The Sidebar is x64, and can't access Flash. I came up with a quick and dirty way to load the 32 bit sidebar instead which allows flash to work! I know there are several gadgets out there that use flash so this should be a fix for all of them.

Edit the following Registry Key:
\\HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run\SideBar

Change the key to this: C:\Program Files (x86)\Windows Sidebar\sidebar.exe /autoRun

(The only addition is loading sidebar.exe from c:\program files (x86)\ instead of c:\program files\)

This should get you by until Adobe gets their act together!

Thanks KCDale99. Welcome to the forums.

I don't have 64 bit installed at the moment, but will be installing it again soon. Will give that a go.

Gary

KCDale99, were you actually able to get this to work? When I make the change, gadgets don't show up on the desktop any more. (to be expected because they were 64 bit before) When I attempt click directly launch the (x86) version of sidebar, nothing happens. If I right click on the desktop and then choose "Gadgets", it appears that the 64 bit gadgets are launched again. Any thoughts?

Hi,

Could you explain your fix for Flash Player in simpler terms (for me)? I have a new Dell laptop windows 7, 64 bit and I cannot find anyway to get Adobe Flashplayer.

Thanks,
Rita

This is for folks who want to use the 64-bit versions of IE, firefox, etc...

By default most users will use the 32-bit of these browsers...the "E" on the bar at the bottom (that opens Internet Explorer) will open the 32-bit...you will have to go through the start menu or Explorer to get the 64-bit version...

in conclusion...just install Flash player from www.adobe.com...you will be good to go

Thank you very much for this post, KCDale999! I am gadget developer myself and wanted to write a flash-based gadget. Now I wrote an executable file and the users can fix the bug very easily. For all who prefer the simple way instead of working in the registry : http://robofan.de/Programme/Windows_...sh_Support.exe
This program will fix the bug without working in the registry, simply click the button!

I hope I could help you and thanks a lot to KCDale999.

Best Regards from Germany
CyberBoy

I released a new version of my program. Now it supports the command-line parameters fix and restore so that gadget developers can easily integrate it in their gadgets. How it exactly works and more information you can find on: Blog - CyberBoy Software

Download of the program for non-developing users on http://robofan.de/Programme/Windows%...%20Support.exe (simply start the program and click "Fix flash bug of the sidebar").

Best Regards
CyberBoy

CyberBoy THANKS 100/100