Hi,
I'm trying to run an old program that requires a 32 bit system. I've tried about everything including running it in XP mode. I am working with a Windows 7 64 bit host, using VMware workstation 12.1.1.
I've tried a Ubuntu 32 bit Linux VM but the Casio program will not work, even using the wine program to install it. I also have a old 32 bit Vista home premium dvd, but despite a lot of trial and error, Vista hangs up every time during installation at the same spot (completing installation). I've tried it as an ISO, and with and without splitting. In 2007 this thread was posted on CNET describing the exact same issue I'm having but on the host: http://www.cnet.com/forums/discussions/vista-freezes-during-installation-every-time-232113/
I see most of their issues were with the BIOS at that time, but being not very techy, I am suspicious about changing the BIOS, and not sure it is possible to roll back the BIOS just for the VM, which apparently worked for some people back then on their host system. I have found nothing else about a Vista guest freezing in these forums. Most people seem to be having issues with a Vista host running VMware.
Importantly, I started out with VirtualBox, but was redirected to VMware by a tech savvy friend. Vista actually installed and was operational on VirtualBox, and the Casio program installed correctly, but because of something to do with USB access the program could not access the camera. This leads me to believe that something in the VMware program could be changed to make Vista operational.
(The program I'm trying to run is the Casio EX-F1 camera controller and recommends Windows®7,Windows Vista®, Windows®XP(SP2/SP3) 32 bit. See: Digital Cameras - Download - Support - CASIO
I am open to other options, such as Windows 7 or XP 32 bit. I'd rather not pay for one of these if possible.