If the new software didnt work you can try updating the zen firmware probably the plays4sure. The downside of this though is that this can only be done on a XP pc.
I updated my firmware years ago since plays4sure allows you to sync with windows media player or drag and drop with explorer.
My 3 zens are just plug and play even after the compact flash hack.
For info...
I've got also an old Creative Zen Micro Photo 8Gb and couldn't get it to be recognized by Windows 7 64bit when plugging it in. Following JennM suggestion (thanks!) I installed the latest version of Creative Central (the one which comes bundled with the new Zen X-Fi 2) and it recognized my old Zen MicroPhoto without a problem.
You can find the file at Creative's website and of course, it's free.
Don't forget to run it 'as administrator' (right-click the file with your mouse for options). Also, notice that when the software is run it (annoyingly!) temporarely changes your Windows 7 scheme color -the screen flickes for a second or two but there's nothing wrong with it!. When closing the software your Windows 7 scheme color will return to normal.
About the software itself... well it's not my cup of tea but it does the work!. I've come to the conclusion the best way to 'transfer' a song from the PC to the Zen is just to drag-n-drop it into the Zen folder at Creative Central.
Enjoy it (like I did!)
PS: Those b***ds at Creative should make it easier for customers to keep using their hardware!. Instead of saying 'this product is obsolete and not supported' they should say 'we are no longer supporting it but try this, it might work' !!!
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