Incompatible Virtual PC / MAC OS 9.0

[mw2]

I have a Power Mac G3, as a secondary computer, which was initially set up to work with an earlly version of Virtual PC -- 2.1, along with 8.5 system software, which I subsequently updated to 8.6 to correct a software glitch.

Later on, I installed System 9.0, unaware that it was incompatible with Virtual PC 2.1, and ever since I have not been able to access the Virtual PC end of the machine. (When you do a search, the Virtual program is listed, but you can't get to it.)

When I tried to use the OS 8.5 disk as a start-up disk in order to reinstall the previous software, I received a message that the computer, installed with 9.0 would not work with it.

Is it possible to remove Mac OS 9.0, and then reinstall the 8.5, in order to be able to retrieve Virtual PC 2.1?

If I decide to get an updated version of Virtual PC, which I realize is now a Microsoft product, rather than Connectix, would it be possible to install it over the old version and then my previous work on Virtual PC--all files and folders-- would reappear?

Any input regarding this "locked up Virtual PC on a PowerMac" problem would be greatly appreciated, including mention of any other forums that might be able to address the question.

 

[kendrew]

VPC updates

I have a Black Mac (5500) with a G3 card and 8.6
I've used VPC for years and have had no problems installing its updaters over the top of previous versions.
I was always warned off OS 9 because of its instability and requirement that many apps. had to be upgraded (some very costly) to run. Of course many current versions of media software and others will not run on 8.6; which can be an absolute pain on the NET, or frustrates your desire to use improved features on your favourite apps.
I recently contacted MS and it seems that 2.1.3 is the last which will run on 8.6 so I'm stuck between a rock and a hard place in many respects.
I don't know about resurrecting your files. Updating over the top should be safe and may allow you to access them.
I'm a great one for backups and separate storage. I use an external HD for all backups with copies on Zip. Also I feel much more secure having multiple partitions on both HDs; with bootable 8.5.1 & 8.6 on each partition.
One day I might take the plunge and go OS X - but imagine the cost of new hardware & software? ? ? We've got all the bells and whistles on our "G3" and for the most part it does a great job.
Good luck.

 

[MisterMe]

I have a Power Mac G3, as a secondary computer, which was initially set up to work with an earlly version of Virtual PC -- 2.1, along with 8.5 system software, which I subsequently updated to 8.6 to correct a software glitch.

Later on, I installed System 9.0, unaware that it was incompatible with Virtual PC 2.1, and ever since I have not been able to access the Virtual PC end of the machine. (When you do a search, the Virtual program is listed, but you can't get to it.)

When I tried to use the OS 8.5 disk as a start-up disk in order to reinstall the previous software, I received a message that the computer, installed with 9.0 would not work with it.

Is it possible to remove Mac OS 9.0, and then reinstall the 8.5, in order to be able to retrieve Virtual PC 2.1?

If I decide to get an updated version of Virtual PC, which I realize is now a Microsoft product, rather than Connectix, would it be possible to install it over the old version and then my previous work on Virtual PC--all files and folders-- would reappear?

Any input regarding this "locked up Virtual PC on a PowerMac" problem would be greatly appreciated, including mention of any other forums that might be able to address the question.

Your story is somewhat confusing. Why did you "do a search"? What do you mean that "you can't get to it"? All you have to do to reinstall MacOS 8.5 is a clean-install of the OS. As for Virtual PC, my first installation of VPC was VPC 3. My VPC 3 disk image works just fine with VPC 6.1. I fully expect your VPC 2 disk image to work, as well.