Using XP Devices in Windows 7

[Doc Watson]

Can one run devices (printers, scanners, etc) on a Windows 7 system if they don't have drivers that are updated for the OS ?? I was wondering if compatibility mode would work for this trick.

[StuartR]

You can often get older devices to work by using drivers from Windows Vista.

[DaveA]

BUT, 32 bit drivers will NOT work with a 64 bit OS.

[John Gray]

Keep an XP box around and network the devices attached to it. I'm using this technique to keep an old A3/duplex HP colour printer working whose driver support finished at Windows Server 2003 32-bit...

[DaveA]

I agree with John, I have my older Epson photo scanner and a OLD HP Laserjet 2100 that has a "Centronics" connector and no USB connection. But is does have the old pre Blue Tooth. Fast Infrared (IR) wireless connection. It works very well with both 32 and 64 bit Windows 7 and worded well with Vista when we had a machine with it. I also have a few programs that are there for my use on Windows XP. The box itself is a older Sony VAIO.

The problem with the HP 2100, the toner cartridge was $129.00for a new one just a few days ago, but it does last a quit a while.

[Doc Watson]

Thanks for the responses. I like Stuart's method for it's simplicity, but think I'll probably go with John's networking idea until the old XP box gives up the ghost.

[kevinmalmo]

try using tools. try this one: http: // xpdrivers.com / index.cfm
Hope it helps.

[HansV]

Welcome to Eileen's Lounge!

Personally, I'm not convinced of the worth of driver updaters. In general, if a driver works correctly, there is no need to update it.