anchorlt wrote:

I smile when I read what the navigation software purists among us
assert and claim.

They don't like Windows? I have been using Windows since it first came
out, in 1995, on my boats' computers and never once had any problem or
failure with that software in any and all of its versions or updates
since. Please do not say again it does not work.

I mentioned a new nav software program in my initial post only to
alert others of its existence. Then along come the purists -- the
cynics, who accuse me of being someone's brother or uncle. Or worse,
anonymous. I have never been anonymous. I am Edward J. Wagner, Ph.D.,
who lives in Lighthouse Point FL 3064. My telephone is 954.785.2470.
"anchorlt" ("anchor light," for the illiterates) is my "handle." But
this information is unnecessary to reasonable, fair- and open-minded
people.

I would suppose that the next we will learn from the purists is that
they have removed their engines and batteries from their boats and
sail out of and into their moorings of docks (docks?) with only
candles and/or kerosene lamps, sleep on unpadded benches, eat only
crackers and warm water or weak tea and do not shave or shower or
change underwear for weeks or months on end. (I once knew a man who
almost fitted that description and I have never before or again met
anyone so unhappy.)

Just curious -- How much sailing in a year do the purists do? I'd bet
damned little.

As a purist, I use the engine only as required. I navigate by feel,
as it is the only truly pure way.

When I feel like it...

I would very much appreciate your comments WRT installing windows to
eliminate conflicts between versions, new software, old hardware,
etc, since in my experience most program problems are caused by
improper installation, in those cases where windows cannot resolve
requirements as visited. A few guidelines from one who has succeeded
here would be appreciated, indeed.

Generally, CMOS anti virus protection (Master Boot Record write
protection) seems to be a focal point, since it should be disabled
when updating software and hardware, etc. Once windows is set to
battling itself over volatile work arounds to unwritten MBR
requirements (updating without disabling and then re-enabling the
mbr protection), the trap is sprung it seems, and thereafter nothing
short of reformatting and re-installing, with MBR protection "off"
seems remediable. It seems I have been bound in this gaol several times.

Win 3.11 was the best, it seems. I have burned out since then, and
cannot rouse spirit or energy enough to battle between Netscape and
Billy and his anti-bootleg crap any more.

Specifically, do you recommend installing and subscribing to MS
network gateway services? Or, have you mastered this conflict?

Thank you.

Terry k