Windows 7: 32 bit prg not installing - PSP setup fails

On Windows 7 system. Ini-info is in a flie I stored separate years ago.
program Ini file says:
Title: Paint Shop Pro Setup - Licensed Version 3.12 16 and 32 bit

Setup opens error window, recommends using 32 bit version (which it is)
I tried Win XPh modus as offered in Windows 7.
MS simply says it is incompatible with Windows 7



I like PSP 1) I know it, 2) it is simple

Is there a way?

This seems like the typical error that appears when you run a 16 bits program inside a 64 bits Windows.
All 64 bits versions of Windows have dropped compatibility with 16 bits programs and don't run them at all.
You may install a virtual machine to bypass this limitation if absolutely needed or get a newer 32 bits version.

Also, many old programs often are 32 bits, but their installers are 16 bits based, so they won't install, but run properly after it if you manage to get the files somehow. Most likely this is the cause of the error.

Paint Shop Pro 9 (proper full version from Ebay, very reasonable price) works with windows 7, but windows turns off aero while the program is running and turns it back on when the program is closed

Paintshop Pro 3.12 32 bit was build with a 16 bit setup to ensure it could be run both on Windows 3.1 and Windows 95, back in the time.

It needs a bit of work, but it is possible to make a 32 bit setup, as I still have the Wise Installer somewhere and made some tries.
Then it would run on a 64 bit Windows.

If you really need it, you can message me and I'll be gald to help ^^