1. In my opinion, you're not missing anything by using Windows 2000 Pro vs XP. Install 2000 Pro SP4, and the differences are more visual than functional. For example, with Windows XP, you can right click on your LAN connector, and perform a variety of functions. With 2000, you have to use the command prompt to accomplish some of the same functions. Both have the same daddy.
2. I know of no new laptops that ship with 2000 Pro. However, most have drivers available for 2000 if you already own that OS.
3. No big deal to reformat new laptop with 2000. However, avoid Inspiron 1705. It has ExpressCard (not Cardbus) PCMCIA slot. Cardbus devices will not work in ExpressCard slot. Just went through a nightmare on that issue with cellular wireless Internet Cardbus device. Third party USB to Cardbus adapter is $210. Dell will sell you such an adapter for $19.95.
4. Nearly all software designed for XP will also run on 2000 Pro with SP4. This includes Microsoft Windows Defender (Beta2).
With all that said, I would like to suggest that you see if you can find Lotus 123 Millenium Edition. I just left a client that I set up Lotus 123 ME for the very purpose you describe. They needed Windows XP for some software, but desired to continue using their old DOS Lotus 123 spreadsheets (Originally developed with the old, old DOS 123). We configured it to use the classic Lotus interface. Only conflict we've had is an accounting program that installs microcode fonts that turns the classic interface into what resembles a checking account number. We simply remove these microcode fonts after each update to the accounting program, since the client uses preprinted checks.
Since this is the Windows XP message board, you might post your questions on the Windows 2000 message board also. Hope this info helps you decide on a course of action.
tgsmith
2.9K Posts
0
June 22nd, 2006 21:00
Newguyhere,
1. In my opinion, you're not missing anything by using Windows 2000 Pro vs XP. Install 2000 Pro SP4, and the differences are more visual than functional. For example, with Windows XP, you can right click on your LAN connector, and perform a variety of functions. With 2000, you have to use the command prompt to accomplish some of the same functions. Both have the same daddy.
2. I know of no new laptops that ship with 2000 Pro. However, most have drivers available for 2000 if you already own that OS.
3. No big deal to reformat new laptop with 2000. However, avoid Inspiron 1705. It has ExpressCard (not Cardbus) PCMCIA slot. Cardbus devices will not work in ExpressCard slot. Just went through a nightmare on that issue with cellular wireless Internet Cardbus device. Third party USB to Cardbus adapter is $210. Dell will sell you such an adapter for $19.95.
4. Nearly all software designed for XP will also run on 2000 Pro with SP4. This includes Microsoft Windows Defender (Beta2).
With all that said, I would like to suggest that you see if you can find Lotus 123 Millenium Edition. I just left a client that I set up Lotus 123 ME for the very purpose you describe. They needed Windows XP for some software, but desired to continue using their old DOS Lotus 123 spreadsheets (Originally developed with the old, old DOS 123). We configured it to use the classic Lotus interface. Only conflict we've had is an accounting program that installs microcode fonts that turns the classic interface into what resembles a checking account number. We simply remove these microcode fonts after each update to the accounting program, since the client uses preprinted checks.
Since this is the Windows XP message board, you might post your questions on the Windows 2000 message board also. Hope this info helps you decide on a course of action.
Tony