32 and 64 bit Windows 7 Professional

[rthomas268]

I purchased and Hewlett Packard with Windows 7 upgraded to Professional so I could use my XP programs. It has two program files - Program Files (for 64-bit) and Program Files (x86) for 32-bit.

I have a new program that I downloaded to my XP laptop just before it died so I now have it on my Win 7 Pro. Everything works fine except accessing the Help file(s).

The 32-bit program is installed in Program Files (x86). The hlp and pdf files are copied to all the software program folders I could find.

I have placed copies of both help files in My Documents, in My Documents>(software x), in Programs Files>(software x), and in Programs Files (x86)>(software x). None of them will open automatically when I click Help>Help Index.

I have downloaded both Windows 6.1-KB917607-x64.msu and -x86.msu. The x64.msu installs, looks for a pdf file but will only recognize and open a hlp file. Will not do it automatically - I have to 'Browse' to the file every time.

The x86.msu file will not install - Says "The update is not applicable to your computer". I have a Program Files(x86). ??? :shock:

Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks
Barbara

 

[DeaconFrost]

It's been beaten to death on here, but those two program files directories are normal. One is for native x64 apps, and the other (Program Files x86) is for compatible apps that are not native x64 apps....just compatible ones.

For some reason, I vaguely remember reading that Windows 7 has issues opening .hlp files. I don't recall the reasoning, but that shouldn't be preventing you from installing XP Mode.

 

[MacGyvr]

There is a download that will allow you to open old style help files on Windows 7. Click below to get it.

I cannot open Help files that require the Windows Help (WinHlp32.exe) program

 

[rthomas268]

I know it doesn't make sense. Microsoft provides those two Help patches to correct the problem. I downloaded both because of having the ability to do 32 or 64 bit.

I don't know if there is a way to 'associate' (maybe not the right way) the software's help with the patch? the hlp file is in the software's folder. It needs to be associated with Windows Help so it will open automatically.

Any ideas,

Barbara

 

[MacGyvr]

Right click, open with, choose default.

 

[rthomas268]

MacGuyver,

Those are the two 'patches' I downloaded, one installed and wants a pdf file but will only view a hlp file and won't open it automatically, I have to 'browse' for it. The other (x86) patch which should work correctly, "won't install on this computer". I don't know why.

Barbara

 

[rthomas268]

MacGuyver,

Been there, done that. Open with = Recommended Program = Microsoft Help. Highlight - check always use the selected program - click OK. Opens for me at that hierarchy location. Does not open in the Help menu of the software program.

Barbara