System Requirements Issues

The Windows Vista Upgrade Advisor usually returns a positive result for upgrading, even if compatibility issues exist. For instance, on an older XP laptop, the advisor software said the computer would work with Vista Business.

While Vista Business appears to be the best solution for this laptop, further down the page it tells of problems with both the System Requirements and Programs.

This means I can have a system running Vista Business, but has only squeaked through the compatibility tests. I have to upgrade, modify, tweak or otherwise manipulate the current configuration to have it perform well with the new operating system. To see what is needed, click the See Details button.

System Requirements

The issue type displays the areas that can be improved on the laptop computer. In this situation, I have a video card that may underperform for Windows Vista. Unfortunately it will not support Vista Aero, so I would have to upgrade my video card in order to take full advantage of Vista.
Replacing a video card in a laptop takes skill and know-how. While my current card can handle Vista, my experience with the new operating system would be greatly enhanced if I did replace the card. If you experience this issue, then you may consider purchasing a new video card and having a professional install it into your computer.

Quick Tip: Access to a desktop computer’s video card makes changing it to a more advanced model much easier than laptop cards. 

Choosing a new video card to boost your Vista compatibility requires knowledge of your motherboard. We do not recommend you change the card, unless you know your way around the inside of your computer.

System Memory Issue

The example shows the computer has enough system RAM to run the core files of Windows Vista. With 512 MB of RAM, the system can run Vista, but without Windows Aero support. For the more advanced features of Windows Vista, the computer should have a minimum of 1 GB of RAM.
To upgrade RAM, users must know the speed of the RAM, the type of RAM installed on the current system, and how to access existing RAM slots on the motherboard. If this information cannot be ascertained from your user guide or manufacturer's website, then a professional should be able to assist with upgrading this crucial part of your computer system.

CPU Issue

In our laptop example, the CPU is an Intel Pentium M processor running at 1.6 GHZ. This configuration suits Vista fine, and can run all elements of Windows Aero. The CPU can be replaced on a motherboard if you experience compatibility issues, but this should be handled by a professional.

DVD Drive

Windows Vista comes packaged on a DVD. For this reason, you obviously need to have a DVD player in your current computer. To resolve this issue, add a DVD drive to your current system. For those with a laptop without a DVD drive, an external DVD drive meets the requirements for this issue.

Devices

What type of devices may have problems running in Windows Vista? The majority of devices should run in Windows Vista, but this is not always the case. Many webcams, cameras and other third party devices need to have updated drivers in order to work on Windows Vista. Check the manufacturer’s website for devices like printers, cameras, microphones, etc, for more information on compatibility issues. Most major brands have full support for Vista on their current products and many legacy products also.