Installing Autodesk Mechanical Desktop 4 on Windows 11

Installing Autodesk Mechanical Desktop R4 on Windows 11 is not normally possible, you will run into lots of problems including the error message shown below…

Windows 16bit setup error - This app can't run on your PC

Windows 16bit setup error – This app can’t run on your PC

The following document will walk you through how to install your Autodesk Mechanical Desktop R4 (otherwise known as MDT 4 and built on the AutoCAD 2000 platform) on Windows 11 32bit or 64bit…

Ransomware Protection Windows 11 and AutoCAD

Windows 11 comes with a Ransomware Protection which includes Controlled Folder Access. Controlled folder access blocks applications from writing to your Documents, Pictures, Videos, Music, Public and Favorites folders. AutoCAD versions all the way to AutoCAD 2021 write to certain user Public folders and are therefore blocked by this feature. This can cause issues with all sorts of things including activating your AutoCAD license and even running AutoCAD. Ransomware Protection is an important feature of Windows 11 but it will affect your AutoCAD unless you allow AutoCAD and its dependent applications access to the controlled folders.

How to install AutoCAD MDT R4 (2000)

A quick word of advice: please follow the instructions below precisely as documented including using the same folder names and paths. This will significantly reduce the risk of having any problems…

  1. If you don’t yet have a copy of the Longbow Converter App you can purchase it here or click on the download link we sent you via email in order to download the Converter App to your PC.
  2. Before installing the Converter App, make sure the files downloaded from our site are not blocked by Windows SmartScreen… Windows 11 is finicky, click the TLC zip first to make sure it’s fully selected then Right+click the file and select Properties. Be sure to check the Unblock checkbox as shown below and Click OK…
  3. Double click the zip file to open it and install the TLC application as normal. By the way, TLC stands for The Longbow Converter
  4. Start the Longbow Converter tool
    1. Insert your AutoCAD CD into your CDRom drive
    2. Select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver
    3. Using the “…” button, pick your AutoCAD CD
    4. Click “Run Old Installer
      1. Read and follow all the prompts
      2. Once the AutoCAD setup starts, stop and read the next step…
  5. In the setup program, navigate through each setup dialog as normal, except when you get to the installation folder, **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\mdt2000 (not .\MDT as usually prompted)**

    MDT 4 select the Browse button

    MDT 4 select the Browse button and update path to c:\mdt2000   MDT 4 Select Install path to c:\mdt2000

     

  6. Now carry on with the install, please read all of the following tips while your installation is running so that you are prepared…
    1. Do not reboot once the install is complete.
    2. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut folder “Mechanical Desktop 4”, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop pointing to your c:\mdt2000\acad.exe by hand.
    3. If you see errors stating errors with objectdbx.z or dao2535.tlb – please reboot your machine and re-do all of the steps above.
    4. Once you click “OK” to setup not being able to create your shortcut folder “Mechanical Desktop 4” – setup may now try to install Acrobat Reader 3.01. If this happens, you will see a blue Mechanical Desktop 4 screen with nothing on it, it will sit there for maybe 60 minutes, just let it do its thing and be patient. Eventually, you will see the Acrobat setup appear, install accepting all defaults.
    5. When the MDT 4 setup asks if you want to “Install the Mechanical Desktop Migration Assistant” say
  7. Once the setup has completed…
      1. Do not reboot if asked to do so
      2. Make sure to fully close the setup program when the installation is complete.
      3. Back in the Converter app and make sure it’s completed the final stage of processing using the “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver” tab and that SUCCESS!! is displayed
  8. Finally, reboot your PC.
    1. Now you are ready to run your AutoCAD, simply run c:\mdt2000\acad.exe using Windows Explorer.
  9. If you find that you are running in raw AutoCAD mode, to enable your Mechanical Desktop features, carry out these next steps, either…
    1. Add a shortcut (recommended) to c:\mdt2000\acad.exe making sure that the Target Property of the shortcut is set to (including quotes) “C:\mdt2000\acad.exe”  /p “C:\mdt2000\desktop\desktop.arg” and the Start In Property is set to the same path as the .arg file e.g.
      Creating a shortcut to Mechanical R4

      Creating a shortcut to Mechanical R4 making sure the Startin property points to where the .arg file resides

      1. For the Power Packs use a new shortcut with the Target set to either
        1. “C:\mdt2000\acad.exe”  /p “C:\mdt2000\acadm\mdtpp.arg”
        2. “C:\mdt2000\acad.exe”  /p “C:\mdt2000\acadm\acadmpp.arg”
          …with both Shortcut Start In: properties set to and the C:\mdt2000\acadm
    2. or update your AutoCAD support path by hand…
      1. At the AutoCAD Command line, type the command ‘Preferences’, add new Support path folders c:\mdt2000\acadm and then also c:\mdt2000\acadm\support, now click ‘Apply’ and then ‘OK’ out of the dialog.
      2. Next, restart AutoCAD.
      3. When you are back in AutoCAD, type ‘Menuload’ at the command line, click browse, then navigate to C:\mdt2000\acadm\support, change the file filter at the bottom to *.mnu, then open acadm.mnu, finally click Load, then pick Close.
      4. Now restart AutoCAD
  10. Now you can happily run your Autodesk Mechanical Desktop 4 – but we do recommend you install the following Service Packs…

Installing AutoCAD 2000 Service Pack 1

  1. Obtain AutoCAD 2000 sp1
  2. Unzip your newly downloaded sp to folder path c:\Autodesk\sp
  3. Start the Converter, select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“,
    1. pick the c:\Autodesk\sp\AutoCAD 2000 sp1 folder and click ‘Run Old Installer
  4. Wait for the setup to appear, it could take up to 45 minutes, then install as normal

Installing AutoCAD 2000 Service Pack 2

  1. Obtain AutoCAD 2000 sp2
  2. Unzip your newly downloaded sp to folder path c:\Autodesk\sp
  3. Start the Converter, select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“,
    1. pick the c:\Autodesk\sp\AutoCAD 2000 sp2 folder and click ‘Run Old Installer
  4. Wait for the setup to appear, it could take up to 45 minutes, then install as normal.

Installing AutoCAD 2000 Service Pack 3

  1. Obtain the AutoCAD MDT R4 sp 3
  2. Unzip your newly downloaded sp to folder path c:\Autodesk\sp
  3. Start the Converter, select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“,
    1. pick the c:\Autodesk\sp\AutoCAD 2000 sp3 folder and click ‘Run Old Installer
  4. Wait for the setup to appear, it could take up to 45 minutes, then install as normal.

Installing AutoCAD 2000 Service Pack 4a

  1. Obtain the AutoCAD MDT R4 sp 4a
  2. Unzip your newly downloaded sp to folder path c:\Autodesk\sp
  3. Start the Converter, select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver“,
    1. pick the c:\Autodesk\sp\AutoCAD 2000 sp4 folder and click ‘Run Old Installer
  4. Wait for the setup to appear, it could take up to 45 minutes, then install as normal.

Troubleshooting

Copyright 2024 (c) Longbow Software

Install AutoCAD 2002 on Windows 11

Follow these instructions to solve issues around installing/running your legacy AutoCAD 2002 on Windows 11

Ransomware Protection Windows 11 and AutoCAD

Windows 11 comes with a Ransomware Protection which includes Controlled Folder Access. Controlled folder access blocks applications from writing to your Documents, Pictures, Videos, Music, Public and Favorites folders. AutoCAD versions all the way to AutoCAD 2021 write to certain user Public folders and are therefore blocked by this feature. This can cause issues with all sorts of things including activating your AutoCAD license and even running AutoCAD. Ransomware Protection is an important feature of Windows 11 but it will affect your AutoCAD unless you allow AutoCAD and its dependent applications access to the controlled folders.

How to install AutoCAD 2002

A quick word of advice: please follow the instructions below precisely as documented including using the same folder names and paths. This will significantly reduce the risk of having any problems…
  1. If you don’t yet have a copy of the Longbow Converter App you can purchase it here or click on the download link we sent you via email in order to download the Converter App to your PC.
  2. Before installing the Converter App, make sure the files downloaded from our site are not blocked by Windows SmartScreen… Windows 11 is finicky, click the TLC zip first to make sure it’s fully selected then Right+click the file and select Properties. Be sure to check the Unblock checkbox as shown below and Click OK…
  3. Double click the zip file to open it and install the TLC application as normal. By the way, TLC stands for The Longbow Converter
  4. Start the Longbow Converter tool
    1. Insert your AutoCAD 2002 CD into your CDRom drive
    2. Select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver
    3. Using the “…” button, pick your AutoCAD CD
    4. Click “Run Old Installer
      1. Read and follow all the prompts
      2. Once the AutoCAD setup starts, stop and read the next step…
  5. In the AutoCAD setup program, navigate through each setup dialog as normal, with these exceptions…
    1. When you arrive at the installation folder path setup dialog…
      1. **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\acad2002 (not Program Files (x86)\AutoCAD  2002 which is normally default)**
      2. Once setup completes…
        1. Do not reboot if asked to do so
        2. Make sure to fully close the setup program when the installation is complete.
  6. Back in the Converter app and make sure it’s completed the final stage of processing using the “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver” tab, it should say SUCCESS!
  7. Finally, reboot your PC and run your AutoCAD and once registered, exit AutoCAD and continue to the next step.
  8. Next, obtain the AutoCAD 2002 sp1 from here unzip and save to c:\Autodesk\spdo not install yet
    1. Go back into the Converter
    2. Select the 3rd tab again
    3. titled “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver
    4. Using the ‘…’ button, select the c:\Autodesk\sp folder
    5. click “Fix Old Program
    6. Finally, install the AutoCAD 2002 sp1 by running the c:\Autodesk\sp\acad2002sp1.exe 
  9. Now, you can happily run your AutoCAD 2002 on Windows 11

Troubleshooting

  • If your AutoCAD 2002 setup stuck at very end, check out this blog
  • If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD 
Copyright 2023 (c) Longbow Software

Install BobCAD-CAM v23 on Windows 10 and Windows 11

This post solves the various installation problems installing BobCAD v23 on Windows 10 and Windows 11…

How to install BobCAD v23

NOTE: To ensure success, follow the instructions precisely as documented including using the same folder names and paths.

  1. Obtain your purchased copy of the Longbow Reviver App here (you will need V4.29 or newer)
  2. Copy the contents of your BobCAD CD to your hard drive, to a folder named c:\InstallDisks\bobcadv23
  3. Start the Reviver App
    • Using the “Old Installer Reviver” tab, pick the ‘…’ button to select the c:\InstallDisks\bobcadv23 folder
    • Now click the ‘Fix and Run Old Installer‘ button.
    • The Reviver App may prompt that it cannot find setup.exe, simply select executable that launches the installation setup
    • Once you indicate the setup executable, the Reviver App will fix the setup media and then launch setup. Be patient as the process can take up to 45 minutes to launch the setup sequence.
  4. Once the setup appears, stop and read the next step…
    • You may install as normal, but when you are asked to select the “Setup Type”, pick “Custom“, this is so you can specify a custom installation folder path…
      • For every installation location that refers to c:\Program Files or c:\Program Files(x86), remove that folder from the full path, you **must** change the default path to not include c:\Program Files or c:\Program Files(x86) (see image below) – the path should be changed to C:\BobCAD-CAM\BobCAD-CAM V23
Remove “Program FIles (x86)” so that BobCAD is installed to C:\BobCAD-CAM\BobCAD-CAM V23
  1. Now complete the setup process
    • Repeat the process of removing “Program FIles (x86)” from each of the child setups
    • do not reboot if prompted to do so
    • When asked to install Microsoft .NET Framework 1.1, say Yes
    • Make sure you fully close setup once complete
  2. Now back in the Reviver App…
    • pick the “Old Program Reviver” tab
    • Using the ‘…’ button pick the C:\BobCAD-CAM\BobCAD-CAM V23 path
    • Set the “Run As” to “None”
    • Now click ‘Fix Old Program
      • When it asks if you want to re-register, say Yes
  3. Once the Reviver App displays “Success!” you will now be able to run your program simply double click the “BobCAD-CAM V23” shortcut

Troubleshooting

  • None

Copyright 2023 (c) Longbow Software

Install Print Shop Ensemble III by Broderbund on Windows 10 and Windows 11

This post solves the various installation problems installing Broderbund’s ‘Print Shop Ensemble III’ on Windows 10 and Windows 11…

How to install Print Shop Ensemble III

NOTE: To ensure success, follow the instructions precisely as documented including using the same folder names and paths.

  1. Obtain your purchased copy of the Longbow Reviver App here (you will need V4.26 or newer)
  2. Start the Reviver App and note the user interface
  3. Download a slightly rearranged version of the original CD in ZIP format from here
    1. Unzip the PSEWIN_DISK 1 Print Shop Ensemble III.zip directly to the root of your C: Drive – e.g C:\ – note it MUST be C:\ – you should see multiple new folders off of your C:\ as shown below in the image, sort by date to see the ones recently added – don’t worry, you can clear them up all at the end as they are not needed once the install is completed…
  1. Back on the Reviver App, from the “Old Installer Reviver” tab, use the ‘…’ button to select the C:\SETUP32 folder
    • Now click the ‘Fix and Run Old Installer‘ button. The Reviver App will fix the setup media and then launch setup. Be patient as the process can take up to 45 minutes to launch the setup sequence.
  2. Once the setup appears, stop and read the next step
    • Once the setup application appears, enter your information as normal except when you get to the installation folder…
    • You **must** change the default path to c:\pse (see image below)
  1. Now complete the setup process
    1. do not reboot if prompted to do so
    2. Make sure you fully close setup once complete
  2. Now back in the Reviver App…
    1. pick the “Old Program Reviver” tab
    2. Using the ‘…’ button pick the c:\pse path
    • Now click ‘Fix Old Program
      • When it asks if you want to re-register, say Yes
  3. Once the Reviver App displays Success! you will now be able to run your program simply run c:\pse\PSEWIN.exe

Troubleshooting

Copyright 2023 (c) Longbow Software

Installing AutoCAD LT98 on Windows 11

AutoCAD LT98 users are very used to the software package and cannot do without it. With the latest hardware and required move to new Windows versions, trying to install your AutoCAD LT98 gives an error like this one…

Windows 16bit setup error - This app can't run on your PC

 

“This app can’t run on your PC”

or this one…

Setup Halted System requirements error Wrong OS, AutoCAD supports Windows NT 4.0, Windows NT 5.0, Windows 95 and Windows 98
“Wrong OS, AutoCAD supports Windows NT 4.0, Windows NT 5.0, Windows 95 and Windows 98”

 

…all is not lost, follow these instructions to install your AutoCAD LT98 on Windows 11…

Ransomware Protection Windows 11 and AutoCAD

Just before we start note that Windows 11 comes with a Ransomware Protection which includes Controlled Folder Access. Controlled folder access blocks applications from writing to your Documents, Pictures, Videos, Music, Public and Favorites folders. AutoCAD versions all the way to AutoCAD 2021 write to certain user Public folders and are therefore blocked by this feature. This can cause issues with all sorts of things including activating your AutoCAD license and even running AutoCAD. Ransomware Protection is an important feature of Windows 11 but it will affect your AutoCAD unless you allow AutoCAD and its dependent applications access to the controlled folders.

How to install AutoCAD LT 98

A quick word of advice: please follow the instructions below precisely as documented including using the same folder names and paths. This will significantly reduce the risk of having any

problems…

  1. If you don’t yet have a copy of the Longbow Converter App you can purchase it here or click on the download link we sent you via email in order to download the Converter App to your PC.
  2. Before installing the Converter App, make sure the files downloaded from our site are not blocked by Windows SmartScreen… Windows 11 is finicky, click the TLC zip first to make sure it’s fully selected then Right+click the file and select Properties. Be sure to check the Unblock checkbox as shown below and Click OK…
  1. Double click the zip file to open it and install the TLC application as normal. By the way, TLC stands for The Longbow Converter
  2. Once installed, start the Longbow Converter App…
    1. Now place your AutoCAD LT98 CD in the CDRom Drive
    2. In the Converter App, select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver
    3. Using the “. . .” button, select your AutoCAD LT98 installation CD
    4. Next, click the “Run Old Installer” button and follow the onscreen instructions. If all is well a dialog will appear stating success, simply click OK to start your AutoCAD setup
      1. Now I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait up to 45 minutes for your AutoCAD LT98 setup.exe program to appear, be patient – NOTE: do not continue with the install until reading the next step…
    1. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next steps all the way to the end! By the way, if your AutoCAD LT98 setup does not start after 45 minutes, read the Troubleshooting section below.
  3. In the AutoCAD setup program…
    1. navigate through each setup dialog as normal, with these exceptions…
      1. Make sure you do a Typical Install (not a Full Install)
      2. When you get to the installation folder input dialog **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\acadlt98 (not Program Files\AutoCADLT98 as usually prompted)**
  4. Now carry on with the install
    1. Do not reboot once the install is complete
    2. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut e.g. “Cannot Create folder ‘AutoCAD LT98’“, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\acadlt98\acad.exe by hand.
    3. Again, do not reboot if prompted to do so
  5. Once your AutoCAD LT98 setup has completed the installation…
    1. Make sure you fully close the setup program.
    2. Once the setup is closed the Converter will automatically fix the c:\acadlt98 program files. You should see “Success!” displayed in the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver
    3. Now reboot your PC
  6. You can now run your AutoCAD LT98 as normal, using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\acadlt98 and double click aclt.exe

Troubleshooting

  • If your AutoCAD LT98 setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
    1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
    2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing LT98 from Windows Safe Mode
  • If you are getting either a Bad Mem Pointer error and or a Smartheap handler recursively re-entered error when you start your AutoCAD LT98 then you need to re-run all the steps above, taking care to do each step precisely as it says, most likely you are missing from step 5 or you have not installed to c:\acadlt98 as stated in step (7) above.
  • When starting AutoCAD, if you receive an ‘acad.exe – System Error’ message: The program can’t start because ac1st15.dll is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem. If you carried out step (7) above, then try rebooting your PC
  • If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
  • Issues with Calcomp Digitizer – Calcomp Digitizer not working
  • If the setup displays an error message InstallError (IUO)               
    (X)  not enough space(IUO) try unplugging any External USB drives
  • Plotting issues? If you get an error splwow64.exe “The application was unable to start correctly” with error “0xc0000005”
    1. Make sure your Anti-virus and/or Windows Firewall is not blocking splwow64.exe
    2. If the problem persists
      1. First, note that you need the latest version of the Converter App
      2. Start the Converter App
      3. Select the 3d tab “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver” 
      4. Click the Tools Menu->Reduced Power Mode
      5. Using the “…” button, pick your acad.exe folder e.g. c:\acadlt98
      6. Click “Fix Old Program” and follow prompts
  • If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Copyright 2023 (c) Longbow Software

Installing Scansoft OmniPage 15 on Windows 10 and Windows 11

Installing your Scansoft OmniPage 15 on Windows or Windows 11 10 32bit or 64bit can be very easily defined in these short steps…

How to install OmniPage 15

A quick word of advice: best to follow the instructions below precisely and to the letter, including folder names and paths, that way you will reduce the risk of having any problems…

  1. Obtain your copy of the Longbow Reviver tool here and install it – you need version V4.10 or newer
  2. Using Windows Explorer, copy your entire OmniPage 15 install CD media to your hard drive, to a folder path c:\InstallCDs\Scansoft\OmniPage15
  3. Start the Longbow Reviver tool…
    1. Select the 1st tab “Old Installer Reviver
    2. using the ‘…’ button pick the c:\InstallCDs\Scansoft\OmniPage15\OmniPage 15\OmniPage folder
    3. Now click the ‘Fix and Run Old Installer’ button
    4. Read and understand all the prompts that appear, then continue by clicking OK.
  4. Once your Omni Page 15 setup screen appears, install as normal except:
    1. As shown just below, when you arrive at the Setup Type, pick Custom then it is vitally important that you install to c:\Scansoft\OmniPage15 (not C:\Program Files (x86)\Scansoft\OmniPage 15 as normally prompted)
    2. now carry on and install as normal
    3. Do not reboot if prompted to do so
  5. Now OmniPage 15 is installed, back in the Longbow Reviver tool
    1. select the 2nd tab “Old Program Reviver
    2. pick the newly installed c:\Scansoft\OmniPage15 folder and click ‘Fix Old Program’
    3. Say ‘No’ if the Reviver tool asks if you want to re-register…
  6. Now you can happily run your OmniPage 15

Troubleshooting

  • No current troubleshooting notes.
Copyright 2022 (c) Longbow Software

Installing Scansoft PaperPort 11 Pro on Windows 10 and Windows 11

Installing your Scansoft PaperPort 11 Pro on Windows or Windows 11 10 32bit or 64bit can be very easily defined in these short steps…

How to install PaperPort 11 Pro

A quick word of advice: best to follow the instructions below precisely and to the letter, including folder names and paths, that way you will reduce the risk of having any problems…

  1. Obtain your copy of the Longbow Reviver tool here and install it – you need version V4.10 or newer
  2. Using Windows Explorer, copy your entire PaperPort 11 Pro install CD media to your hard drive, to a folder path c:\InstallCDs\Scansoft\PaperPort11
  3. Start the Longbow Reviver tool…
    1. Select the 1st tab “Old Installer Reviver
    2. using the ‘…’ button pick the c:\InstallCDs\Scansoft\PaperPort11\PaperPort folder
    3. Now click the ‘Fix and Run Old Installer’ button
    4. Read and understand all the prompts that appear, then continue by clicking OK.
  4. Once your PaperPort 11 Pro setup screen appears, install as normal except:
    1. As shown just below, when you arrive at the Setup Type, pick Custom
      then it is vitally important that you install to c:\Scansoft\PaperPort11 (not C:\Program Files (x86)\Scansoft\PaperPort as normally prompted)

    2. now carry on and install as normal
    3. Do not reboot if prompted to do so
  5. Now PaperPort 11 Pro is installed, back in the Longbow Reviver tool
    1. select the 2nd tab “Old Program Reviver
    2. pick the newly installed c:\Scansoft\PaperPort11 folder and click ‘Fix Old Program’
    3. Say ‘No’ if the Reviver tool asks if you want to re-register…
  6. Now you can happily run your PaperPort 11 Pro

Troubleshooting

  • No current troubleshooting notes.
Copyright 2022 (c) Longbow Software

Installing AutoCAD LT97 on Windows 11

AutoCAD LT97 users are very used to the software package and cannot do without it. With the latest hardware and required move to new Windows versions, trying to install your AutoCAD LT97 gives an error like this one…
Windows 16bit setup error - This app can't run on your PC

“This app can’t run on your PC”

or this one…
Setup Halted System requirements error Wrong OS, AutoCAD supports Windows NT 4.0, Windows NT 5.0, Windows 95 and Windows 98
“Wrong OS, AutoCAD supports Windows NT 4.0, Windows NT 5.0, Windows 95 and Windows 98” …all is not lost, follow these instructions to install your AutoCAD LT97 on Windows 11…

Ransomware Protection Windows 11 and AutoCAD

Just before we start note that Windows 11 comes with a Ransomware Protection which includes Controlled Folder Access. Controlled folder access blocks applications from writing to your Documents, Pictures, Videos, Music, Public and Favorites folders. AutoCAD versions all the way to AutoCAD 2021 write to certain user Public folders and are therefore blocked by this feature. This can cause issues with all sorts of things including activating your AutoCAD license and even running AutoCAD. Ransomware Protection is an important feature of Windows 11 but it will affect your AutoCAD unless you allow AutoCAD and its dependent applications access to the controlled folders.

How to install AutoCAD LT97

A quick word of advice: please follow the instructions below precisely as documented including using the same folder names and paths. This will significantly reduce the risk of having any

problems…

  1. If you don’t yet have a copy of the Longbow Converter App you can purchase it here or click on the download link we sent you via email in order to download the Converter App to your PC.
  2. Before installing the Converter App, make sure the files downloaded from our site are not blocked by Windows SmartScreen… Windows 11 is finicky, click the TLC zip first to make sure it’s fully selected then Right+click the file and select Properties. Be sure to check the Unblock checkbox as shown below and Click OK…
  1. Double click the zip file to open it and install the TLC application as normal. By the way, TLC stands for The Longbow Converter
  2. Once installed, start the Longbow Converter App…
    1. Now place your AutoCAD LT97 CD in the CDRom Drive
    2. In the Converter App, select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver
    3. Using the “. . .” button, select your AutoCAD LT97 installation CD
    4. Next, click the “Run Old Installer” button and follow the onscreen instructions. If all is well a dialog will appear stating success, simply click OK to start your AutoCAD setup
      1. Now I know it’s unheard of these days, but at this point expect to wait up to 45 minutes for your AutoCAD LT97 setup.exe program to appear, be patient – NOTE: do not continue with the install until reading the next step…
    5. Once the setup starts, stop and read the next steps all the way to the end! By the way, if your AutoCAD LT97 setup does not start after 45 minutes, read the Troubleshooting section below.
  3. In the AutoCAD setup program…
    1. navigate through each setup dialog as normal, with these exceptions…
      1. Make sure you do a Typical Install (not a Full Install)
      2. When you get to the installation folder input dialog **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\acadlt97 (not Program Files\AutoCADLT97 as usually prompted)**
  1. Now carry on with the install
    1. Do not reboot once the install is complete
    2. Ignore any errors related to not being able to create the shortcut e.g. “Cannot Create folder ‘AutoCAD LT97’, you will have to create a shortcut on your computer Desktop to your c:\acadlt97\aclt.exe by hand.
    3. Again, do not reboot if prompted to do so
  2. Once your AutoCAD setup has completed the installation…
    1. Make sure you fully close the setup program.
    2. Once the setup is closed the Converter will automatically fix the c:\acadlt97 program files. You should see “Success!” displayed in the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver
    3. Now reboot your PC
  3. You can now run your AutoCAD LT97, using Windows Explorer, navigate to c:\acadlt97 and double click aclt.exe

Troubleshooting

  • If your AutoCAD LT97 setup is not starting after 45 minutes…
    1. First try turning off UAC, rebooting, then restart the steps above.
    2. If it is still failing, most likely it’s because of another application on your system which is preventing our setup routine from starting (perhaps anti-virus, or similar) – try installing LT97 from Windows Safe Mode
  • If you are getting an application failure with Unhandled Exception 0x800F0922
    • The security software (ESET Nod 32) must uninstalled; suspending it not effective
  • If you are getting a WinHelp() error when pressing F1 to try and access the Help system then simply install the WinHelp (WinHlp32.exe) module from Microsoft
Copyright 2022 (c) Longbow Software

Installing Adobe Illustrator 10 on Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10

Most likely, the reason you found this page is because your Adobe Illustrator 10 Autoplay does nothing when you click the “Adobe Illustrator 10” install button…

Adobe Illustrator 10 button does nothing when clicked

Adobe Illustrator 10 button does nothing when clicked

…the good news is, that it can be solved!

Installing your Adobe Illustrator 10 on Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 10 32bit or 64bit can be very easily defined in these short steps…

How to install Adobe Illustrator 10

A quick word of advice: best to follow the instructions below precisely and to the letter, including folder names and paths, that way you will reduce the risk of having any problems…

  1. Obtain your copy of the Longbow Reviver tool here – you need version 4.10 or newer
  2. Using Windows Explorer, copy your entire Adobe Illustrator 10 install CD media to your hard drive, to a folder path c:\InstallCDs\Adobe\Illustrator10
  3. Start the Longbow Reviver tool, select the 1st tab “Old Installer Reviver“, then using the ‘…’ button pick the  c:\InstallCDs\Adobe\Illustrator10\Adobe Illustrator 10.0.3 folder
    1. Now click the ‘Fix and Run Old Installer’ button
    2. Read and understand all the prompts that appear, then continue by clicking OK.
  4. Once your Adobe Illustrator 10 setup screen appears, install as normal except:
    1. As shown just below, when you arrive at the install to ‘Destination Folder” – it is vitally important that you install to c:\adobe\illustrator 10 (not C:\Program Files (x86)\Adobe\Illustrator 10.0.3 as normally prompted)

      Adobe Illustrator 10 select folder

      Adobe Illustrator 10 select folder

    2. Do not reboot if prompted to do so
  5. Now Illustrator is installed. In the Longbow Reviver tool, select the 2nd tab “Old Program Reviver“, pick the newly installed c:\adobe\illustrator 10 folder and click ‘Fix Old Program’
    1. Say ‘No’ if the Reviver tool asks if you want to re-register…
  6. Now you can happily run your Adobe Illustrator 10 on Windows 7, Windows 8 or Windows 10 32bit or 64bit!

Troubleshooting

  • If your setup is not appearing within 1 hour, reboot into Safe Mode and try the same process as above again.
Copyright 2019 (c) Longbow Software

Installing 64bit AutoCAD LT 2016 on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

AutoCAD LT 2016 was not designed to run in Windows 10 (Windows 10 was released after AutoCAD LT 2016) and inevitably you will run into issues such as the infamous Ribbon crashing issue, slow startup problems, text scaling issues, etc.

You can automatically solve these problems using our Longbow Converter App, it fixes and manages the AutoCAD LT 2016 installation so that you can be up and running again… Just follow these easy instructions:

How to install 64bit AutoCAD LT 2016

  1. First, uninstall any existing AutoCAD LT 2016 installations on your computer
  2. Next, obtain the Longbow Converter App download here
  3. Start the Converter tool
    1. Pick the 1st tab named “AutoCAD 32bit Installer Converter
    2. Using your mouse, right-click the tab text “AutoCAD 32bit Installer Converter” so that it changes to “AutoCAD 64bit Installer Converter
    3. Next, using the “. . .” button, select your AutoCAD installation CD and follow the instructions presented by the Converter tool user interface.
  4. Once the conversion process is complete
    1. click Install/Run Setup to start setup
    2. Once you have completed the AutoCAD installation process…
      1. Completely close the setup program
      2. Go back to the Converter App and make sure it states “Success!
  5. Now you can run your AutoCAD as normal

Troubleshooting

– If your AutoCAD is running really slowly, try disabling your integrated graphics card so you can run your high-performance card instead

– If you are unable to activate your product, or the activation process crashes:

– If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Copyright 2022 (c) Longbow Software

Installing 32bit AutoCAD Land Desktop 2008 (LDT) on 64bit Windows 7, 8 and Windows 10

These instructions solve issues around installing/running your old AutoCAD LDT 2008 on newer versions of 64bit Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10. Some common issues are error messages like these…

  • “This operating system is not supported by AutoCAD® Land Desktop 2008”
  • “You cannot install this product on the current operating system”
  • “You are attempting to use a 32-bit installer on a 64-bit operating system”
  • “This is a 32-bit AutoCAD® Land Desktop 2008. It cannot be installed on 64-bit Windows”

You can automatically solve these problems using our Longbow Converter App, it manages the AutoCAD LDT 2008 installation so that you can be up and running again, no problem… Just follow these instructions:

How to install AutoCAD LDT 2008

This image has an empty alt attribute; its file name is ProblemSolved-1.png
  1. Obtain your purchased copy of the Longbow Converter here
  2. Start the Converter App and note the user interface
  3. Select the 1st tab named “AutoCAD 32bit Installer Converter
    1. Using the “. . .” button, selection your AutoCAD installation CD
    2. Next, click the “Convert button and follow the App instructions
  4. Once the conversion process is complete
    1. click Install/Run Setup to start setup
    2. Simply install as normal, then…
      1. Make sure to close the setup program when the installation is complete.
      2. Next, switch back in the Converter App and make sure it’s completed the final stage of processing using the “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver” tab
  5. Now run your AutoCAD as normal

Troubleshooting

– If your AutoCAD crashes while interacting with the Ribbon click here

– If you are unable to activate your product, or the activation process crashes:

– If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Copyright 2021 (c) Longbow Software

Installing 32bit AutoCAD Civil3d 2008 on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

These instructions solve issues around installing/running your AutoCAD C3D 2008 on newer 64bit Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10.

Some more common issues stopping you from using your AutoAD are error messages like these…

“This operating system is not supported by AutoCAD Civil3d 2008”

or

“FATAL ERROR: Unhandled 0x… Exception…”

You can solve all the problems with your AutoCAD C3D 2008 automatically by using our Longbow Converter App, it fixes and manages the AutoCAD C3D 2008 installation so that you can be up and running again.

NOTE: Autodesk no longer supply License Activation codes. Once you have installed your AutoCAD (following the instructions below) you will need to authorize/activate your AutoCAD yourself, find out how by clicking here

How to install Civil3d 2008

  1. Obtain your purchased copy of the Longbow Converter here
  2. Start the Converter App
  3. Insert your AutoCAD C3D CD into your CDRom drive…
    1. Select the 1st tab named “AutoCAD 32bit Installer Converter
    2. Using the “. . .” button, select your AutoCAD C3D installation CD
    3. Next, click the “Convert button and follow instructions
  4. Once the conversion process is complete
    1. click Install/Run Setup to start setup
    2. Simply install as normal, remembering to…
      1. Fully close the AutoCAD setup application once complete
      2. Do not reboot, if prompted
      3. Close the Converter App.
  5. Now run as normal

Installing the AutoCAD Civil3d 2008 Service Packs

Civil3d sp2 (Update 2) already contains sp1, so just install that…

  1. Download the Download the AutoCAD C3D 2008 sp2 zip from here (c3d2008_sp2.exe)
  2. Run as normal to install

Troubleshooting

– If you are unable to activate your product, or the activation process crashes:

– If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD   Copyright 2019 (c) Longbow Software

Installing AutoCAD MDT 2005 on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

Follow these instructions to solve issues around installing/running your old AutoCAD Mechanical 2005 on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

IMPORTANT NOTE: Autodesk no longer supply License Activation codes for this version of AutoCAD. The best way is to transfer your existing license to the new PC but there are other options, we document them here

How to install MDT 2005 

  1. Obtain your purchased copy of the Longbow Converter here
  2. Start the Longbow Converter tool
    1. Insert your AutoCAD CD into your CDRom drive
    2. Select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver
    3. Using the “…” button, path the to your AutoCAD CD
    4. Click “Run Old Installer
      1. Read and follow all the prompts
      2. Once the AutoCAD setup starts, stop and read the next step…
  3. In the AutoCAD setup program, navigate through each setup dialog as normal, with these exceptions…
    1. When you arrive at the installation folder path setup dialog…
      1. it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\mdt2005 (not Program Files (x86)\AutoCAD Mechanical 2005)
    2. While installing…
      1. If you see an error in install “.NET Runtime Optimization Service has stopped working” – simply ignore by clicking the “Close Program” button
      2. If a message box appears warning that “64bit .NET Unavailable” – simply click OK to carry on and install AutoCAD as normal – this does not affect anything.
      3. Do not reboot if asked to do so
    3. Once installed
      1. Do not reboot if asked to do so
      2. Make sure to fully close the setup program when the installation is complete.
      3. Switch back to the Converter app and make sure it’s completed the final stage of processing using the “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver” tab – it should display “SUCCESS!”
  4. Finally, reboot your PC and run your AutoCAD as normal
    1. NOTE: When starting AutoCAD, if you see a warning dialog when you run saying “This program has known compatibility issues
      1. Click “Don’t show this message again
      2. then click “Run the Program…

Troubleshooting

– If you are unable to activate your product, or the activation crashes:

– If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD  

Copyright 2021 (c) Longbow Software

Install The Print Shop Deluxe 21 by Broderbund on Windows 10

This post solves the various installation problems installing Broderbund’s ‘The Print Shop Deluxe 21’ on Windows 10…

How to install Print Shop Deluxe 21

NOTE: To ensure success, follow the instructions precisely as documented including using the same folder names and paths.

  1. Obtain your purchased copy of the Longbow Reviver App here (you will need V4.26 or newer)
  2. Start the Reviver App and note the user interface
  3. Insert your Print Shop Deluxe CD into the CDRom drive
    1. From the “Old Installer Reviver” tab, use the ‘…’ button to pick your Print Shop Deluxe CD.
    2. Now click the ‘Fix and Run Old Installer‘ button
      1. Follow the instructions for copying the CD
    3. Once the CD is copied the Reviver App will run a process on the copy of the CD, then launch the setup.
      1. Be patient as the process can take up to 45 minutes.
      2. Once the setup appears, stop and read the next step
  4. Once the setup application appears, enter your information as normal except when you get to the installation folder…
    1. You **must** change the default path to c:\PrintShop21 (see image below)
    2. do not reboot the PC if prompted to do so
  1. Now complete the setup process
    1. do not reboot if prompted to do so
    2. fully close setup
  2. Now back in the Reviver App…
    1. pick the “Old Program Reviver” tab
    2. Using the ‘…’ button pick the c:\PrintShop21 path
    • Now click ‘Fix Old Program
      • When it asks if you want to re-register, say Yes
  3. Once the Reviver App displays Success! you will now be able to run your Print Shop

Troubleshooting

  • The “Save As PDF” feature does not work on 64bit Windows (because the driver installed is 16bit). To get round this issue simply “Print” and select a PDF print driver

Copyright 2020 (c) Longbow Software

Installing 32bit AutoCAD Mechanical 2011 on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

These instructions solve issues around installing/running your old AutoCAD Mechanical 2011 on newer versions of 64bit Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10. Some common issues are error messages like these

  • “This operating system is not supported by AutoCAD® Mechanical 2011”
  • “You cannot install this product on the current operating system”
  • “You are attempting to use a 32-bit installer on a 64-bit operating system”
  • “This is a 32-bit AutoCAD® Mechanical 2011. It cannot be installed on 64-bit Windows”

You can automatically solve these problems using our Longbow Converter App, it fixes and manages the AutoCAD Mechanical 2011 installation so that you can be up and running again… Follow these instructions:

How to install AutoCAD MDT 2011

  1. Obtain your purchased copy of the Longbow Converter here
  2. Start the Converter App and note the user interface
  3. Select the 1st tab named “AutoCAD 32bit Installer Converter
    1. Using the “. . .” button, selection your AutoCAD installation CD
    2. Next, click the “Convert button and follow instructions
  4. Once the conversion process is complete
    1. click Install/Run Setup to start setup
    2. Simply install as normal, remembering to…
      1. Close the setup program when the installation is complete.
      2. Now back in the Converter app and make sure it’s completed the final stage of processing using the “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver” tab
  5. Now run your AutoCAD as normal
    1. NOTE: We highly recommend you install the service packs below

Installing AutoCAD MDT 2011 Service Packs

We recommend that you download and install the latest Service Packs from Autodesk which can be found here

AutoCAD Mechanical 2011 has 2 updates, you must install Update 1.1 first then Update 2… Here are the instructions for installing the AutoCAD MDT 2011 sp/updates/service packs

Troubleshooting

– If your AutoCAD crashes while interacting with the Ribbon click here

– If you are unable to activate your product, or the activation process crashes:

– If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD   Copyright 2020 (c) Longbow Software

Installing 64bit AutoCAD LT 2015 on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

AutoCAD LT 2015 was not designed to run in Windows 10 (Windows 10 was released after AutoCAD LT 2015) and inevitably you will run into issues such as the infamous Ribbon crashing issue, slow startup problems, text scaling issues, etc.

You can automatically solve these problems using our Longbow Converter App, it fixes and manages the AutoCAD LT 2015 installation so that you can be up and running again… Just follow these easy instructions:

How to install 64bit AutoCAD LT 2015

  1. First, uninstall any existing AutoCAD LT 2015 installations on your computer
  2. Next, obtain the Longbow Converter App download here
  3. Start the Converter tool
    1. Pick the 1st tab named “AutoCAD 32bit Installer Converter
    2. Using your mouse, right-click the tab text “AutoCAD 32bit Installer Converter” so that it changes to “AutoCAD 64bit Installer Converter
    3. Next, using the “. . .” button, select your AutoCAD installation CD and follow the instructions presented by the Converter tool user interface.
  4. Once the conversion process is complete
    1. click Install/Run Setup to start setup
    2. Once you have completed the AutoCAD installation process…
      1. Completely close the setup program
      2. Go back to the Converter App and make sure it states “Success!
  5. Now you can run your AutoCAD as normal

Installing AutoCAD LT 2015 sp2

  • Service Pack 2 also includes all of the updates from Service Pack 1.
  • Download AutoCAD LT 2015 sp2 and install normally

Troubleshooting

– If your AutoCAD is running really slowly, try disabling your integrated graphics card so you can run your high-performance card instead

– If you are unable to activate your product, or the activation process crashes:

– If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Copyright 2020 (c) Longbow Software

Installing Qualcomm Eudora 7 on Windows 10

Apparently, a lot of people are still using Eudora 7 but have lots of issues running on Windows 10. Here’s how to easily get Eudora working on Windows 10, simply use our Longbow Reviver tool (for fixing legacy apps on new versions of Windows)

How to install Eudora

  1. Obtain your purchased copy of the Longbow Reviver App here
  2. Start the Reviver App and note the user interface
  3. Insert your Eudora CD (or copy your Eudora_7.exe setup to c:\EudoraCD)
    1. From the “Old Installer Reviver” tab, use the ‘…’ button to pick the CD (or if you copied your Eudora_7.exe setup then pick the c:\EudoraCD folder).
    2. Now click the ‘Fix and Run Old Installer‘ button
      1. Follow the Reviver App instructions
      2. Once the setup appears, stop and read the next step
  4. Once the setup application appears, go through the setup as normal except when you get to select the installation folder (Destination Install Folder)…
    1. You **must** change the default path to c:\eudora (instead of C:\Program Files (x86)\Qualcomm\Eudora)
    2. Also, do not run Eudora at the end of the setup because an extra step is needed to fix the installed program files.
  5. Once the setup is completed
    1. Make sure setup is closed down
    2. Go back to the Reviver App and wait for Success! to be displayed.
    3. In the Reviver App, pick the “Old Program Reviver” tab
    1. Using the ‘…’ button pick the path c:\eudora
    2. Now click ‘Fix Old Program
      1. When the Reviver App asks if you want to re-register, say Yes
  6. Once the Reviver App displays Success! you can run your c:\eudora\eudora.exe happily ever after

Copyright 2020 (c) Longbow Software

Installing ORCAD 9 on 64bit Windows 7, 8 and Windows 10

This post solves all of the problems related to installing and running ORCAD 9 on 64bit versions of Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10. Common issues are like this one shown below which prevents installation…

Windows 16bit setup error - This app can't run on your PC
Windows 16bit setup error – This app can’t run on your PC

How to install ORCAD 9

  1. Obtain your purchased copy of the Longbow Reviver App here (you will need V4.25 or newer)
  2. Start the Reviver App and note the user interface
  3. Insert your ORCAD CD
    1. From the “Old Installer Reviver” tab, use the ‘…’ button to pick your ORCAD CD.
    2. Now click the ‘Fix and Run Old Installer‘ button
      1. Follow the instructions for copying the CD
    3. Once the CD is copied the Reviver App will run a process on the copy of the CD, then launch the setup.
      1. Be patient as the process can take up to 45 minutes.
      2. Once the setup appears, stop and read the next step
  4. Once the setup application appears, go through the setup as normal except when you get to select the installation folder (Destination Directory)…
    1. You **must** change the default path to c:\orcad9
    2. do not run ORCAD at the end of the setup because an extra step is needed to fix the program files.
  5. Once the setup is completed, go back to the Reviver App and wait for Success! to be displayed.
    1. Finally, back in the Reviver App, pick the “Old Program Reviver” tab
    2. Using the ‘…’ button pick the c:\orcad9 path
    3. Now click ‘Fix Old Program
      1. When the Reviver App asks if you want to re-register, say Yes
  6. Once the Reviver App displays Success! you can run your c:\orcad9 happily ever after.

Copyright 2020 (c) Longbow Software

Installing InstaForm Invoices & Estimates Pro 2.0 on Windows 10

You may be running into various errors when you install your InstaForm on Windows 10, example…

Application Terminated: Error: Null object reference at line ….

It is possible to install Nova’s InstaForm Invoices & Estimates Pro 2.0 on Windows 10 and make it work just fine, just follow these instructions…

How to install Invoices & Estimates Pro 2.0

  1. You will need to obtain the Longbow Reviver App from here
  2. Using Windows Explorer, copy your entire InstaForm Invoices & Estimates Pro 2.0 CD to your hard drive, copy to a folder path c:\CDs\InstaForm
  3. Start the Longbow Reviver App…
    1. Select the 1st tab named “Old Installer Reviver” and using the ‘…’ button pick the C:\CDs\InstaForm\NXW folder
    2. Next, click the ‘Fix and Run Old Installer’ button
    3. Read and understand all the prompts that appear, then continue by clicking OK.
  4. Install as normal, except:
    1. Be sure to install to precisely to this folder – c:\InstaForm\Invoices and Estimates Pro – not the folder prompted in setup which installs to Program Files…
    2. Close setup – Do not reboot if prompted to do so
You must not install to Program Files
  1. Now InstaForm Invoices & Estimates Pro 2.0 is installed, but we need to fix the program files…
    1. Go back to the Longbow Reviver app…
    2. Select the 2nd tab “Old Program Reviver” and using the ‘…’ button pick the newly installed  folder c:\InstaForm\Invoices and Estimates Pro
    3. Set the “Run As” dropdown to Windows XP sp2
    4. Next, click ‘Fix Old Program’ then click ‘YES’ if the Reviver tool asks if you want to re-register…
  2. Now you can happily run your InstaForm Invoices & Estimates Pro 2.0 on Windows 10!

Copyright 2020 (c) Longbow Software

Installing 64bit AutoCAD Electrical 2012 on Windows 8 and Windows 10

AutoCAD Electrical 2012 was not designed to run in Windows 10 (Windows 10 was released after AutoCAD 2012) and inevitably you will run into issues such as the infamous Ribbon crashing issue, slow startup problems, text scaling issues, etc.

You can automatically solve these problems using our Longbow Converter App, it fixes and manages the AutoCAD Electrical 2012 installation so that you can be up and running again… Just follow these easy instructions:

How to install AutoCAD Electrical 2012

  1. First, uninstall any existing AutoCAD Electrical 2012 installations on your computer
  2. Next obtain a copy of the Longbow Converter App, download here
  3. Start the Converter tool
    1. Pick the 1st tab named “AutoCAD 32bit Installer Converter
    2. Using your mouse, click the “32bit” button so that it changes to “AutoCAD 64bit Installer Converter
    3. Next, using the “. . .” button, select your AutoCAD installation CD and follow the instructions presented by the Converter tool user interface.
  4. Once the conversion process is complete
    1. click Install/Run Setup to start setup
    2. Once you have completed the AutoCAD installation process…
      1. Completely close the setup program
      2. Go back to the Converter App and make sure it states “Success!
  5. Now you can run your AutoCAD as normal

Troubleshooting

– If you are unable to activate your product, or the activation process crashes:

– If you have crashing problems using the File->Open or File->Save dialogs inside of AutoCAD please read this blog entry on the File->Open or File->Save Crash in AutoCAD

Copyright 2019 (c) Longbow Software

Error: “Please install DirectX before installing AutoCAD”

While installing AutoCAD you may run into a blocking issue whereby the DirectX runtime (which AutoCAD relies upon for its hardware 3D capability) fails to install for some reason (Error 1603). Solutions posted on Autodesk website show how to edit the setup.ini file to try and solve this issue, however, upon doing so you get a new error, for instance…

“Error: Please install DirectX before installing AutoCAD MEP 2013”

You can easily solve this issue (and others) by installing your AutoCAD using the Longbow Converter App. It manages the install and bypasses all issues like these automatically so you can be up and running again. You will need V11.19 or newer of the Converter App). But be aware of these caveats:

  • The Converter will allow you to ignore the DirectX failure and allow AutoCAD to correctly install, but DirectX won’t be installed. This means that:
    • 2D will work fine
    • 3D will fine, but only in Software mode (slower)
    • Everytime you start AutoCAD you will get a Heidi error, like this one…

      “…the configured heidi driver cannot be loaded…

      to stop this, in AutoCAD, right click the Command Line->Options->System->Graphics Performance->HardWare Acceleration: Turn off

Copyright 2019 (c) Longbow Software

Installing Terrain Navigator Pro on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

While attempting to install MapTech’s Terrain Navigator Professional on 64bit Windows 7, 8 or 10 you receive this error…

Windows 16bit setup error - This app can't run on your PC

Windows 16bit setup error – This app can’t run on your PC

You can solve the problem with our Longbow Reviver solution

How to install Terrain Navigator Pro

  1. First you need to purchase the Longbow Reviver here – sorry, it’s not free 
  2. Insert your Terrain Navigator CD into your computer
  3. Next, start In the Reviver App
    1. Click on the 1st tab named “Old Installer Reviver
    2. Using the “. . .” button, pick the path to the CD
    3. Now click “Fix and Run Old installer”
      1. Follow the on screen prompts…
      2. BE PATIENT – Terrain Navigator Setup may take up to 90 minutes to start, when it does stop and read the next step
  4. Once the Terrain Navigator Pro setup starts up
    1. install as normal except when prompted for the installation path, don’t install to c:\Program Files\Maptech\Terrain Navigator Pro but instead install to
      c:\Maptech\Terrain Navigator Pro as shown below…
c:\Maptech\Terrain Navigator Pro as shown above
  • Once setup is complete, you can now happily run
    c:\Maptech\Terrain Navigator Pro\Terpro\terpro.exe

Troubleshooting

  1. If you still are running into issues, contact Longbow Support

Copyright 2019 (c) Longbow Software

Installing Microsoft Office 2007 on Windows 10

Recently, I had problems installing Office 2007 on Windows 10 64bit… The issue was unexplained; Office 2007 setup simply “failed installing PowerPoint” and then just gave up without any error messages. So here’s what I did to solve it:

How to install Office 2007

  1. First step, purchase this tool, the Longbow Reviver here – sorry, it’s not free 🙁
  2. Insert the Microsoft Office CD into your computer
  3. Next, start In the Reviver App
    1. Click on the tab named “Old Program Reviver
    2. Using the “. . .” button, pick the path to the CD
    3. Select “Windows Vista” from the “Run As” dropdown
    4. Now click “Fix Old Program
  4. Once the Reviver tool has completed, run setup.exe from the Microsoft CD to install as normal

Troubleshooting

Copyright 2019 (c) Longbow Software

Installing AutoCAD Map 2000i on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

AutoCAD Map 2000i users are very used to the software package and cannot do without it. With the latest hardware and required move to new Windows versions, you will inevitably run into problems either installing or running your AutoCAD again – a common fault is the error dialog stating “Runtime Error!”

How to install AutoCAD Map 2000i

  1. If you have an existing faulty Map 2000i installation, uninstall it.
  2. Next, obtain your purchased copy of the Longbow Converter here
  3. Start In the Converter App and note the user interface
  4. Insert your AutoCAD CD into your computer
  5. Start the Longbow Converter tool
    1. Select the 2nd tab named “Old AutoCAD Installer Reviver
    2. Using the “” button pick your AutoCAD CD
    3. Click “Run Old Installer” and follow the Converter’s instructions.
    4. Once the AutoCAD Map 2000i setup starts, stop and read the next step…
  6. In the setup program, navigate through each setup dialog as normal, except when you get to the installation folder, **it’s vitally important to make sure you install to c:\acad2000i (not Program Files (x86)\AutoCAD Map 2000i as usually prompted by default)**
  7. Once installed
    1. do not reboot if prompted to do so.
    2. Fully close the AutoCAD setup application
    3. Finally, let the Converter App finish processing
  8. Now, you can happily run your AutoCAD 2000i on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10!

Installing the ER Mapper Imagery Plugin for AutoCAD 2000i

If you are having problems installing the
ER Mapper Imagery Plugin for AutoCAD 2000i, try this…

  1. Start In the Converter App again\
  2. Select the 3rd tab named “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver
    1. Using the “…” button pick the folder where your ACAD2000_ECW_Plugin exe is
    2. Now hit “Fix Old Program
    3. Once the Converter app is complete, run the
      ACAD2000_ECW_Plugin exe as normal

Troubleshooting  

Copyright 2019 (c) Longbow Software

Installing old versions of AutoCAD on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

Old versions of AutoCAD were not designed to run in newer versions of Windows and you will find that installing them as you always did before will encounter lots of issues, even failing while installing too.

The Longbow Converter app allows old versions of AutoCAD to be installed on new versions of Windows, removing all known compatibility issues automatically for you.

Instructions for installing old versions of AutoCAD on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

Versions
  • AutoCAD 2008 | AutoCAD 2009 | AutoCAD 2010 | AutoCAD 2011 | AutoCAD 2012 | AutoCAD 2013
  • AutoCAD 2014 | AutoCAD 2015 | AutoCAD 2016 | AutoCAD 2017
  • AutoCAD 2018 | AutoCAD 2019
  • 32bit or 64bit

  1. Make sure all previous installed versions of AutoCAD are uninstalled first.
  2. Obtain your copy of the Longbow Converter here
  3. Start the Converter tool
    1. Pick the 1st tab named “AutoCAD 32bit Installer Converter
    2. If your AutoCAD is 64bit
      1. Using your mouse, right click the tab text “AutoCAD 32bit Installer Converter” so that it changes to “AutoCAD 64bit Installer Converter
    3. Next, using the “…” button, select your AutoCAD installation CD and follow the instructions presented by the Converter tool user interface
  4. Once you have completed the AutoCAD installation process…
    1. Fully close the setup program
    2. Now go back to the Converter app and make sure it’s completed the final stage of processing using the “Old AutoCAD Program Reviver” tab
    3. Finally, reboot your PC and run your AutoCAD as normal
  5. Install any service packs for your AutoCAD
  6. Now you can happily run your AutoCAD on Windows 7, Windows 8 and Windows 10

Troubleshooting

 

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