Sims 2 --- Help!

[Guest]

I've already installed the game, and don't seem to have a problem with
DirectX that a lot of others seem to have. But when I try to run the game,
the Sims 2 splash comes up, but then - nothing! Maybe my video card or
whatever isn't compatible, but I could really use some help.

Here's some information which might be of use:
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 1
(2600.xpsp2.050301-1526)
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Sony Corporation
System Model: PCV-W600G
BIOS: Award Medallion BIOS v6.0
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.80GHz, ~2.8GHz
Memory: 480MB RAM
Page File: 513MB used, 609MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
DX Setup Parameters: Not found
DxDiag Version: 5.03.0001.0904 32bit Unicode
DirectX Files Tab: No problems found.
Display Tab 1: No problems found.
Sound Tab 1: No problems found.
Music Tab: No problems found.
Input Tab: No problems found.
Network Tab: No problems found
Display Devices
---------------
Card name: SiS 650_651_740
Manufacturer: SiS
Chip type: SiS 651 Rev 00
DAC type: Internal
Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_1039&DEV_6325&SUBSYS_811C104D&REV_00
Display Memory: 32.0 MB
Current Mode: 1280 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Res: 1600,1200
Driver Name: SiSGRV.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.2211 (English)
DDI Version: 9 (or higher)
Driver Attributes: Final Retail
Driver Date/Size: 10/23/2003 19:44:40, 1079040 bytes
WHQL Logo'd: n/a
WHQL Date Stamp: n/a
VDD: n/a
Mini VDD: sisgrp.sys
Mini VDD Date: 10/14/2003 03:57:34, 426752 bytes
Device Identifier: {D7B71ED9-2065-11CF-5E7B-16A1A1C2CB35}
Vendor ID: 0x1039
Device ID: 0x6325
SubSys ID: 0x811C104D
Revision ID: 0x0000
Revision ID: 0x0000
Video Accel: ModeMPEG2_D ModeMPEG2_C ModeMPEG2_A ModeMPEG1_A
Deinterlace Caps: n/a
Registry: OK
DDraw Status: Enabled
D3D Status: Enabled
AGP Status: Enabled

Thanks for any help anyone can give!

 

[Jimmy S.]

Hi Starshine,

You only have a SiS graphics chipset on your system.
You don't have a SIMS 2 compatible Video Card...
For the list of graphic cards supported by SIMS 2:
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S. http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site: http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support: http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any rights.
_________________________________________________________

 

[Paul Smith]

I've already installed the game, and don't seem to have a problem with
DirectX that a lot of others seem to have. But when I try to run the game,
the Sims 2 splash comes up, but then - nothing! Maybe my video card or
whatever isn't compatible, but I could really use some help.

Card name: SiS 650_651_740
Display Memory: 32.0 MB

Thanks for any help anyone can give!

Hello.

The video card isn't on the compatible list... However it may work, I'd try
updating your video drivers, these will either be available on Sony's
website (http://esupport.sony.com/) or SiS themselves
(http://www.sis.com/download/)

--
Paul Smith,
Yeovil, UK.
http://www.dasmirnov.net/
http://windows.dasmirnov.net/ Windows XP Resource Site.

*Replace nospam with smirnov to reply by e-mail*

 

[Guest]

Hi Jimmy,

Sorry to sound incredibly naive, but can I download something from
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21 ,
http://www.nvidia.com/content/drivers/drivers.asp or
http://www.ati.com/support/driver.html to help me work this out? Or is this
something that there's no way around? I hate to think that I've purchased a
game I'll not be able to play.

Thanks for your help though!

Hi Starshine,

You only have a SiS graphics chipset on your system.
You don't have a SIMS 2 compatible Video Card...
For the list of graphic cards supported by SIMS 2:
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S. http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site: http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support: http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any rights.
_________________________________________________________

I've already installed the game, and don't seem to have a problem with
DirectX that a lot of others seem to have. But when I try to run the game,
the Sims 2 splash comes up, but then - nothing! Maybe my video card or
whatever isn't compatible, but I could really use some help.

Here's some information which might be of use:
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 1
(2600.xpsp2.050301-1526)
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Sony Corporation
System Model: PCV-W600G
BIOS: Award Medallion BIOS v6.0
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.80GHz, ~2.8GHz
Memory: 480MB RAM
Page File: 513MB used, 609MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
DX Setup Parameters: Not found
DxDiag Version: 5.03.0001.0904 32bit Unicode
DirectX Files Tab: No problems found.
Display Tab 1: No problems found.
Sound Tab 1: No problems found.
Music Tab: No problems found.
Input Tab: No problems found.
Network Tab: No problems found
Display Devices
---------------
Card name: SiS 650_651_740
Manufacturer: SiS
Chip type: SiS 651 Rev 00
DAC type: Internal
Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_1039&DEV_6325&SUBSYS_811C104D&REV_00
Display Memory: 32.0 MB
Current Mode: 1280 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Res: 1600,1200
Driver Name: SiSGRV.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.2211 (English)
DDI Version: 9 (or higher)
Driver Attributes: Final Retail
Driver Date/Size: 10/23/2003 19:44:40, 1079040 bytes
WHQL Logo'd: n/a
WHQL Date Stamp: n/a
VDD: n/a
Mini VDD: sisgrp.sys
Mini VDD Date: 10/14/2003 03:57:34, 426752 bytes
Device Identifier: {D7B71ED9-2065-11CF-5E7B-16A1A1C2CB35}
Vendor ID: 0x1039
Device ID: 0x6325
SubSys ID: 0x811C104D
Revision ID: 0x0000
Revision ID: 0x0000
Video Accel: ModeMPEG2_D ModeMPEG2_C ModeMPEG2_A ModeMPEG1_A
Deinterlace Caps: n/a
Registry: OK
DDraw Status: Enabled
D3D Status: Enabled
AGP Status: Enabled

Thanks for any help anyone can give!

 

[Jimmy S.]

Hi Starshine,

Those links lead to drivers for either of the supported
makes of video cards for SIMS 2. Without the actual
hardware, the drivers won't be of any use to us at all...

Try the two sites that Paul suggested in this thread:
Sony's website (http://esupport.sony.com/) or
SiS (http://www.sis.com/download/) however if you
want to play SIMS 2, you might need to invest in your
PC and purchase one of the supported Graphics Cards.

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S. http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site: http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support: http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any rights.
_________________________________________________________

Hi Jimmy,

Sorry to sound incredibly naive, but can I download something from
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21 ,
http://www.nvidia.com/content/drivers/drivers.asp or
http://www.ati.com/support/driver.html to help me work this out? Or is this
something that there's no way around? I hate to think that I've purchased a
game I'll not be able to play.

Thanks for your help though!

Hi Starshine,

You only have a SiS graphics chipset on your system.
You don't have a SIMS 2 compatible Video Card...
For the list of graphic cards supported by SIMS 2:
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S. http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site: http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support: http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any rights.
_________________________________________________________

I've already installed the game, and don't seem to have a problem with
DirectX that a lot of others seem to have. But when I try to run the game,
the Sims 2 splash comes up, but then - nothing! Maybe my video card or
whatever isn't compatible, but I could really use some help.

Here's some information which might be of use:
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 1
(2600.xpsp2.050301-1526)
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Sony Corporation
System Model: PCV-W600G
BIOS: Award Medallion BIOS v6.0
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.80GHz, ~2.8GHz
Memory: 480MB RAM
Page File: 513MB used, 609MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
DX Setup Parameters: Not found
DxDiag Version: 5.03.0001.0904 32bit Unicode
DirectX Files Tab: No problems found.
Display Tab 1: No problems found.
Sound Tab 1: No problems found.
Music Tab: No problems found.
Input Tab: No problems found.
Network Tab: No problems found
Display Devices
---------------
Card name: SiS 650_651_740
Manufacturer: SiS
Chip type: SiS 651 Rev 00
DAC type: Internal
Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_1039&DEV_6325&SUBSYS_811C104D&REV_00
Display Memory: 32.0 MB
Current Mode: 1280 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Res: 1600,1200
Driver Name: SiSGRV.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.2211 (English)
DDI Version: 9 (or higher)
Driver Attributes: Final Retail
Driver Date/Size: 10/23/2003 19:44:40, 1079040 bytes
WHQL Logo'd: n/a
WHQL Date Stamp: n/a
VDD: n/a
Mini VDD: sisgrp.sys
Mini VDD Date: 10/14/2003 03:57:34, 426752 bytes
Device Identifier: {D7B71ED9-2065-11CF-5E7B-16A1A1C2CB35}
Vendor ID: 0x1039
Device ID: 0x6325
SubSys ID: 0x811C104D
Revision ID: 0x0000
Revision ID: 0x0000
Video Accel: ModeMPEG2_D ModeMPEG2_C ModeMPEG2_A ModeMPEG1_A
Deinterlace Caps: n/a
Registry: OK
DDraw Status: Enabled
D3D Status: Enabled
AGP Status: Enabled

Thanks for any help anyone can give!

 

[Guest]

Thank you. I'll give those sites a try.

Hello.

The video card isn't on the compatible list... However it may work, I'd try
updating your video drivers, these will either be available on Sony's
website (http://esupport.sony.com/) or SiS themselves
(http://www.sis.com/download/)

--
Paul Smith,
Yeovil, UK.
http://www.dasmirnov.net/
http://windows.dasmirnov.net/ Windows XP Resource Site.

*Replace nospam with smirnov to reply by e-mail*

 

[Guest]

Ok, thanks. I'm going to give it a try! If it doesn't work I suppose you're
right, I'll just have to invest in one of the supported graphics cards.

Hi Starshine,

Those links lead to drivers for either of the supported
makes of video cards for SIMS 2. Without the actual
hardware, the drivers won't be of any use to us at all...

Try the two sites that Paul suggested in this thread:
Sony's website (http://esupport.sony.com/) or
SiS (http://www.sis.com/download/) however if you
want to play SIMS 2, you might need to invest in your
PC and purchase one of the supported Graphics Cards.

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S. http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site: http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support: http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any rights.
_________________________________________________________

Hi Jimmy,

Sorry to sound incredibly naive, but can I download something from
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21 ,
http://www.nvidia.com/content/drivers/drivers.asp or
http://www.ati.com/support/driver.html to help me work this out? Or is this
something that there's no way around? I hate to think that I've purchased a
game I'll not be able to play.

Thanks for your help though!

Hi Starshine,

You only have a SiS graphics chipset on your system.
You don't have a SIMS 2 compatible Video Card...
For the list of graphic cards supported by SIMS 2:
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S. http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site: http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support: http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any rights.
_________________________________________________________

I've already installed the game, and don't seem to have a problem with
DirectX that a lot of others seem to have. But when I try to run the game,
the Sims 2 splash comes up, but then - nothing! Maybe my video card or
whatever isn't compatible, but I could really use some help.

Here's some information which might be of use:
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service Pack 1
(2600.xpsp2.050301-1526)
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Sony Corporation
System Model: PCV-W600G
BIOS: Award Medallion BIOS v6.0
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.80GHz, ~2.8GHz
Memory: 480MB RAM
Page File: 513MB used, 609MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
DX Setup Parameters: Not found
DxDiag Version: 5.03.0001.0904 32bit Unicode
DirectX Files Tab: No problems found.
Display Tab 1: No problems found.
Sound Tab 1: No problems found.
Music Tab: No problems found.
Input Tab: No problems found.
Network Tab: No problems found
Display Devices
---------------
Card name: SiS 650_651_740
Manufacturer: SiS
Chip type: SiS 651 Rev 00
DAC type: Internal
Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_1039&DEV_6325&SUBSYS_811C104D&REV_00
Display Memory: 32.0 MB
Current Mode: 1280 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Res: 1600,1200
Driver Name: SiSGRV.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.2211 (English)
DDI Version: 9 (or higher)
Driver Attributes: Final Retail
Driver Date/Size: 10/23/2003 19:44:40, 1079040 bytes
WHQL Logo'd: n/a
WHQL Date Stamp: n/a
VDD: n/a
Mini VDD: sisgrp.sys
Mini VDD Date: 10/14/2003 03:57:34, 426752 bytes
Device Identifier: {D7B71ED9-2065-11CF-5E7B-16A1A1C2CB35}
Vendor ID: 0x1039
Device ID: 0x6325
SubSys ID: 0x811C104D
Revision ID: 0x0000
Revision ID: 0x0000
Video Accel: ModeMPEG2_D ModeMPEG2_C ModeMPEG2_A ModeMPEG1_A
Deinterlace Caps: n/a
Registry: OK
DDraw Status: Enabled
D3D Status: Enabled
AGP Status: Enabled

Thanks for any help anyone can give!

 

[Guest]

One more question (if you don't mind), if I get a graphics card can I install
it myself, or must I have someone come in and do it for me?

 

[Chris H.]

Hopefully, your machine has a slot for a "real" graphics card. Make sure
you investigate the documentation which came with your computer before you
invest in a card. My daughters would love to have Sims 2, but none of the
machines here they use will support the higher requirements. The only one
which would has enough RAM and a fast enough CPU, but no slot for a real
card, and onboard graphics is too poor. 8-( And I've been hearing about it
since Sims 2 was first announced. LOL!
--
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/meetexperts/nichol.mspx
In memory of a true friend, Windows MVP Alex Nichol

Chris H.
Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
Associate Expert
Expert Zone -

Ok, thanks. I'm going to give it a try! If it doesn't work I suppose
you're
right, I'll just have to invest in one of the supported graphics cards.

Hi Starshine,

Those links lead to drivers for either of the supported
makes of video cards for SIMS 2. Without the actual
hardware, the drivers won't be of any use to us at all...

Try the two sites that Paul suggested in this thread:
Sony's website (http://esupport.sony.com/) or
SiS (http://www.sis.com/download/) however if you
want to play SIMS 2, you might need to invest in your
PC and purchase one of the supported Graphics Cards.

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S. http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site: http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support:
http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any
rights.
_________________________________________________________

message

Hi Jimmy,

Sorry to sound incredibly naive, but can I download something from
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21 ,
http://www.nvidia.com/content/drivers/drivers.asp or
http://www.ati.com/support/driver.html to help me work this out? Or is
this
something that there's no way around? I hate to think that I've
purchased a
game I'll not be able to play.

Thanks for your help though!

:

Hi Starshine,

You only have a SiS graphics chipset on your system.
You don't have a SIMS 2 compatible Video Card...
For the list of graphic cards supported by SIMS 2:
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S.
http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site:
http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support:
http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any
rights.
_________________________________________________________

message
I've already installed the game, and don't seem to have a problem
with
DirectX that a lot of others seem to have. But when I try to run the
game,
the Sims 2 splash comes up, but then - nothing! Maybe my video card
or
whatever isn't compatible, but I could really use some help.

Here's some information which might be of use:
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service
Pack 1
(2600.xpsp2.050301-1526)
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Sony Corporation
System Model: PCV-W600G
BIOS: Award Medallion BIOS v6.0
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.80GHz, ~2.8GHz
Memory: 480MB RAM
Page File: 513MB used, 609MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
DX Setup Parameters: Not found
DxDiag Version: 5.03.0001.0904 32bit Unicode
DirectX Files Tab: No problems found.
Display Tab 1: No problems found.
Sound Tab 1: No problems found.
Music Tab: No problems found.
Input Tab: No problems found.
Network Tab: No problems found
Display Devices
---------------
Card name: SiS 650_651_740
Manufacturer: SiS
Chip type: SiS 651 Rev 00
DAC type: Internal
Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_1039&DEV_6325&SUBSYS_811C104D&REV_00
Display Memory: 32.0 MB
Current Mode: 1280 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Res: 1600,1200
Driver Name: SiSGRV.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.2211 (English)
DDI Version: 9 (or higher)
Driver Attributes: Final Retail
Driver Date/Size: 10/23/2003 19:44:40, 1079040 bytes
WHQL Logo'd: n/a
WHQL Date Stamp: n/a
VDD: n/a
Mini VDD: sisgrp.sys
Mini VDD Date: 10/14/2003 03:57:34, 426752 bytes
Device Identifier: {D7B71ED9-2065-11CF-5E7B-16A1A1C2CB35}
Vendor ID: 0x1039
Device ID: 0x6325
SubSys ID: 0x811C104D
Revision ID: 0x0000
Revision ID: 0x0000
Video Accel: ModeMPEG2_D ModeMPEG2_C ModeMPEG2_A ModeMPEG1_A
Deinterlace Caps: n/a
Registry: OK
DDraw Status: Enabled
D3D Status: Enabled
AGP Status: Enabled

Thanks for any help anyone can give!

 

[Guest]

It's got a slot for a memory stick and another slot for pc cards, I don't
know if that's what you mean, though. This is so frustrating! I've quite a
few new games and up until now have never had such a problem. And like you, I
want to play this game so badly, lol.

Hopefully, your machine has a slot for a "real" graphics card. Make sure
you investigate the documentation which came with your computer before you
invest in a card. My daughters would love to have Sims 2, but none of the
machines here they use will support the higher requirements. The only one
which would has enough RAM and a fast enough CPU, but no slot for a real
card, and onboard graphics is too poor. 8-( And I've been hearing about it
since Sims 2 was first announced. LOL!
--
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/meetexperts/nichol.mspx
In memory of a true friend, Windows MVP Alex Nichol

Chris H.
Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
Associate Expert
Expert Zone -

Ok, thanks. I'm going to give it a try! If it doesn't work I suppose
you're
right, I'll just have to invest in one of the supported graphics cards.

Hi Starshine,

Those links lead to drivers for either of the supported
makes of video cards for SIMS 2. Without the actual
hardware, the drivers won't be of any use to us at all...

Try the two sites that Paul suggested in this thread:
Sony's website (http://esupport.sony.com/) or
SiS (http://www.sis.com/download/) however if you
want to play SIMS 2, you might need to invest in your
PC and purchase one of the supported Graphics Cards.

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S. http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site: http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support:
http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any
rights.
_________________________________________________________

message
Hi Jimmy,

Sorry to sound incredibly naive, but can I download something from
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21 ,
http://www.nvidia.com/content/drivers/drivers.asp or
http://www.ati.com/support/driver.html to help me work this out? Or is
this
something that there's no way around? I hate to think that I've
purchased a
game I'll not be able to play.

Thanks for your help though!

:

Hi Starshine,

You only have a SiS graphics chipset on your system.
You don't have a SIMS 2 compatible Video Card...
For the list of graphic cards supported by SIMS 2:
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S.
http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site:
http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support:
http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any
rights.
_________________________________________________________

message
I've already installed the game, and don't seem to have a problem
with
DirectX that a lot of others seem to have. But when I try to run the
game,
the Sims 2 splash comes up, but then - nothing! Maybe my video card
or
whatever isn't compatible, but I could really use some help.

Here's some information which might be of use:
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service
Pack 1
(2600.xpsp2.050301-1526)
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Sony Corporation
System Model: PCV-W600G
BIOS: Award Medallion BIOS v6.0
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.80GHz, ~2.8GHz
Memory: 480MB RAM
Page File: 513MB used, 609MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
DX Setup Parameters: Not found
DxDiag Version: 5.03.0001.0904 32bit Unicode
DirectX Files Tab: No problems found.
Display Tab 1: No problems found.
Sound Tab 1: No problems found.
Music Tab: No problems found.
Input Tab: No problems found.
Network Tab: No problems found
Display Devices
---------------
Card name: SiS 650_651_740
Manufacturer: SiS
Chip type: SiS 651 Rev 00
DAC type: Internal
Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_1039&DEV_6325&SUBSYS_811C104D&REV_00
Display Memory: 32.0 MB
Current Mode: 1280 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Res: 1600,1200
Driver Name: SiSGRV.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.2211 (English)
DDI Version: 9 (or higher)
Driver Attributes: Final Retail
Driver Date/Size: 10/23/2003 19:44:40, 1079040 bytes
WHQL Logo'd: n/a
WHQL Date Stamp: n/a
VDD: n/a
Mini VDD: sisgrp.sys
Mini VDD Date: 10/14/2003 03:57:34, 426752 bytes
Device Identifier: {D7B71ED9-2065-11CF-5E7B-16A1A1C2CB35}
Vendor ID: 0x1039
Device ID: 0x6325
SubSys ID: 0x811C104D
Revision ID: 0x0000
Revision ID: 0x0000
Video Accel: ModeMPEG2_D ModeMPEG2_C ModeMPEG2_A ModeMPEG1_A
Deinterlace Caps: n/a
Registry: OK
DDraw Status: Enabled
D3D Status: Enabled
AGP Status: Enabled

Thanks for any help anyone can give!

 

[Jimmy S.]

Hi Starshine,

Home users can install these cards themselves.

It does require opening the case however to secure the
new card in the appropriate slot with the PC unplugged.

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S. http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site: http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support: http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any rights.
_________________________________________________________

 

[Guest]

Oh, I see. If I need to open that case, that may prove to be a bit
problematic. In the model pc I have, everything is all in one. There is no
tower. It's the Sony Vaio PCV-W600G. Don't know if you're familiar with that,
but I don't think I can open it myself.

Hi Starshine,

Home users can install these cards themselves.

It does require opening the case however to secure the
new card in the appropriate slot with the PC unplugged.

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S. http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site: http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support: http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any rights.
_________________________________________________________

One more question (if you don't mind), if I get a graphics card can I install
it myself, or must I have someone come in and do it for me?

 

[Chris H.]

As Jimmy said, you can do it, but use extreme caution and make sure you've
shut down the computer and unplug the power cord before opening the case.
If you have an AGP-type slot, make sure you document which card will work
with your system. You may even need to go to the manufacturer's web site to
see if they have further information on the motherboard and what it can
accommodate. If you have a free regular PCI slot, you may be able to use
one of those cards if your motherboard doesn't support AGP.
--
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/meetexperts/nichol.mspx
In memory of a true friend, Windows MVP Alex Nichol

Chris H.
Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
Associate Expert
Expert Zone -

It's got a slot for a memory stick and another slot for pc cards, I don't
know if that's what you mean, though. This is so frustrating! I've quite a
few new games and up until now have never had such a problem. And like
you, I
want to play this game so badly, lol.

Hopefully, your machine has a slot for a "real" graphics card. Make sure
you investigate the documentation which came with your computer before
you
invest in a card. My daughters would love to have Sims 2, but none of
the
machines here they use will support the higher requirements. The only
one
which would has enough RAM and a fast enough CPU, but no slot for a real
card, and onboard graphics is too poor. 8-( And I've been hearing about
it
since Sims 2 was first announced. LOL!
--
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/meetexperts/nichol.mspx
In memory of a true friend, Windows MVP Alex Nichol

Chris H.
Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
Associate Expert
Expert Zone -


message

Ok, thanks. I'm going to give it a try! If it doesn't work I suppose
you're
right, I'll just have to invest in one of the supported graphics cards.

:

Hi Starshine,

Those links lead to drivers for either of the supported
makes of video cards for SIMS 2. Without the actual
hardware, the drivers won't be of any use to us at all...

Try the two sites that Paul suggested in this thread:
Sony's website (http://esupport.sony.com/) or
SiS (http://www.sis.com/download/) however if you
want to play SIMS 2, you might need to invest in your
PC and purchase one of the supported Graphics Cards.

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S.
http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site:
http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support:
http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any
rights.
_________________________________________________________

message
Hi Jimmy,

Sorry to sound incredibly naive, but can I download something from
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21 ,
http://www.nvidia.com/content/drivers/drivers.asp or
http://www.ati.com/support/driver.html to help me work this out? Or
is
this
something that there's no way around? I hate to think that I've
purchased a
game I'll not be able to play.

Thanks for your help though!

:

Hi Starshine,

You only have a SiS graphics chipset on your system.
You don't have a SIMS 2 compatible Video Card...
For the list of graphic cards supported by SIMS 2:
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S.
http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site:
http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support:
http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any
rights.
_________________________________________________________

message
I've already installed the game, and don't seem to have a problem
with
DirectX that a lot of others seem to have. But when I try to run
the
game,
the Sims 2 splash comes up, but then - nothing! Maybe my video
card
or
whatever isn't compatible, but I could really use some help.

Here's some information which might be of use:
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600)
Service
Pack 1
(2600.xpsp2.050301-1526)
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Sony Corporation
System Model: PCV-W600G
BIOS: Award Medallion BIOS v6.0
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.80GHz, ~2.8GHz
Memory: 480MB RAM
Page File: 513MB used, 609MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
DX Setup Parameters: Not found
DxDiag Version: 5.03.0001.0904 32bit Unicode
DirectX Files Tab: No problems found.
Display Tab 1: No problems found.
Sound Tab 1: No problems found.
Music Tab: No problems found.
Input Tab: No problems found.
Network Tab: No problems found
Display Devices
---------------
Card name: SiS 650_651_740
Manufacturer: SiS
Chip type: SiS 651 Rev 00
DAC type: Internal
Device Key:
Enum\PCI\VEN_1039&DEV_6325&SUBSYS_811C104D&REV_00
Display Memory: 32.0 MB
Current Mode: 1280 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Res: 1600,1200
Driver Name: SiSGRV.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.2211 (English)
DDI Version: 9 (or higher)
Driver Attributes: Final Retail
Driver Date/Size: 10/23/2003 19:44:40, 1079040 bytes
WHQL Logo'd: n/a
WHQL Date Stamp: n/a
VDD: n/a
Mini VDD: sisgrp.sys
Mini VDD Date: 10/14/2003 03:57:34, 426752 bytes
Device Identifier: {D7B71ED9-2065-11CF-5E7B-16A1A1C2CB35}
Vendor ID: 0x1039
Device ID: 0x6325
SubSys ID: 0x811C104D
Revision ID: 0x0000
Revision ID: 0x0000
Video Accel: ModeMPEG2_D ModeMPEG2_C ModeMPEG2_A ModeMPEG1_A
Deinterlace Caps: n/a
Registry: OK
DDraw Status: Enabled
D3D Status: Enabled
AGP Status: Enabled

Thanks for any help anyone can give!

 

[Jimmy S.]

Here's what the inside of the case and an AGP slot will look like:
http://www.waterwheel.com/Guides/how_to/video/video_cards.htm

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S. http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site: http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support: http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any rights.
_________________________________________________________

As Jimmy said, you can do it, but use extreme caution and make sure you've shut down the computer and unplug the power cord before
opening the case. If you have an AGP-type slot, make sure you document which card will work with your system. You may even need
to go to the manufacturer's web site to see if they have further information on the motherboard and what it can accommodate. If
you have a free regular PCI slot, you may be able to use one of those cards if your motherboard doesn't support AGP.
--
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/meetexperts/nichol.mspx
In memory of a true friend, Windows MVP Alex Nichol

Chris H.
Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
Associate Expert
Expert Zone -

It's got a slot for a memory stick and another slot for pc cards, I don't
know if that's what you mean, though. This is so frustrating! I've quite a
few new games and up until now have never had such a problem. And like you, I
want to play this game so badly, lol.

Hopefully, your machine has a slot for a "real" graphics card. Make sure
you investigate the documentation which came with your computer before you
invest in a card. My daughters would love to have Sims 2, but none of the
machines here they use will support the higher requirements. The only one
which would has enough RAM and a fast enough CPU, but no slot for a real
card, and onboard graphics is too poor. 8-( And I've been hearing about it
since Sims 2 was first announced. LOL!
--
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/expertzone/meetexperts/nichol.mspx
In memory of a true friend, Windows MVP Alex Nichol

Chris H.
Microsoft Windows MVP/Tablet PC
Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
Associate Expert
Expert Zone -


Ok, thanks. I'm going to give it a try! If it doesn't work I suppose
you're
right, I'll just have to invest in one of the supported graphics cards.

:

Hi Starshine,

Those links lead to drivers for either of the supported
makes of video cards for SIMS 2. Without the actual
hardware, the drivers won't be of any use to us at all...

Try the two sites that Paul suggested in this thread:
Sony's website (http://esupport.sony.com/) or
SiS (http://www.sis.com/download/) however if you
want to play SIMS 2, you might need to invest in your
PC and purchase one of the supported Graphics Cards.

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S. http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site: http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support:
http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any
rights.
_________________________________________________________

message
Hi Jimmy,

Sorry to sound incredibly naive, but can I download something from
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21 ,
http://www.nvidia.com/content/drivers/drivers.asp or
http://www.ati.com/support/driver.html to help me work this out? Or is
this
something that there's no way around? I hate to think that I've
purchased a
game I'll not be able to play.

Thanks for your help though!

:

Hi Starshine,

You only have a SiS graphics chipset on your system.
You don't have a SIMS 2 compatible Video Card...
For the list of graphic cards supported by SIMS 2:
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S.
http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site:
http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support:
http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any
rights.
_________________________________________________________

message
I've already installed the game, and don't seem to have a problem
with
DirectX that a lot of others seem to have. But when I try to run the
game,
the Sims 2 splash comes up, but then - nothing! Maybe my video card
or
whatever isn't compatible, but I could really use some help.

Here's some information which might be of use:
Operating System: Windows XP Home Edition (5.1, Build 2600) Service
Pack 1
(2600.xpsp2.050301-1526)
Language: English (Regional Setting: English)
System Manufacturer: Sony Corporation
System Model: PCV-W600G
BIOS: Award Medallion BIOS v6.0
Processor: Intel(R) Pentium(R) 4 CPU 2.80GHz, ~2.8GHz
Memory: 480MB RAM
Page File: 513MB used, 609MB available
Windows Dir: C:\WINDOWS
DirectX Version: DirectX 9.0c (4.09.0000.0904)
DX Setup Parameters: Not found
DxDiag Version: 5.03.0001.0904 32bit Unicode
DirectX Files Tab: No problems found.
Display Tab 1: No problems found.
Sound Tab 1: No problems found.
Music Tab: No problems found.
Input Tab: No problems found.
Network Tab: No problems found
Display Devices
---------------
Card name: SiS 650_651_740
Manufacturer: SiS
Chip type: SiS 651 Rev 00
DAC type: Internal
Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_1039&DEV_6325&SUBSYS_811C104D&REV_00
Display Memory: 32.0 MB
Current Mode: 1280 x 768 (32 bit) (60Hz)
Monitor: Plug and Play Monitor
Monitor Max Res: 1600,1200
Driver Name: SiSGRV.dll
Driver Version: 6.14.0010.2211 (English)
DDI Version: 9 (or higher)
Driver Attributes: Final Retail
Driver Date/Size: 10/23/2003 19:44:40, 1079040 bytes
WHQL Logo'd: n/a
WHQL Date Stamp: n/a
VDD: n/a
Mini VDD: sisgrp.sys
Mini VDD Date: 10/14/2003 03:57:34, 426752 bytes
Device Identifier: {D7B71ED9-2065-11CF-5E7B-16A1A1C2CB35}
Vendor ID: 0x1039
Device ID: 0x6325
SubSys ID: 0x811C104D
Revision ID: 0x0000
Revision ID: 0x0000
Video Accel: ModeMPEG2_D ModeMPEG2_C ModeMPEG2_A ModeMPEG1_A
Deinterlace Caps: n/a
Registry: OK
DDraw Status: Enabled
D3D Status: Enabled
AGP Status: Enabled

Thanks for any help anyone can give!

 

[Paul Smith]

Oh, I see. If I need to open that case, that may prove to be a bit
problematic. In the model pc I have, everything is all in one. There is no
tower. It's the Sony Vaio PCV-W600G. Don't know if you're familiar with
that,
but I don't think I can open it myself.

Oh dear... From the looks of it even if you can open the case it won't have
the space.

Although PCs have never been cheaper, you can probably pick up a cheap
system from Dell that will do the job, and even if it won't you could buy a
graphics card for that fairly cheaply that will run the Sims 2 ok.

--
Paul Smith,
Yeovil, UK.
http://www.dasmirnov.net/
http://windows.dasmirnov.net/ Windows XP Resource Site.

*Replace nospam with smirnov to reply by e-mail*

 

[DosFreak]

Check this link:

3. Run the game with the -w switch which forces the game to run in a
window. To add this switch, follow these steps:

a. Right-click on the The Sims 2 game and left-click on Properties. You
can do this either on the game's shortcut on the desktop or on the
game's entry in the Start menu.

b. Add a space and -w to the end of the Target field, so that it looks
like this:

"C:\Program Files\EA Games\The Sims 2\TSBin\Sims2.exe" -w

Note: The actual path may vary depending on where the game was
installed. Make sure that the -w goes outside the quotation marks and
that there is a space between the last quotation mark and the -w.

6. Q: Why does the game crash at 'Blurring Reality Lines' in the
loading screen?
A: This is usually caused by an error with your video card. First,
verify that your video card is compatible with The Sims 2. You need (at
minimum) a T&L-capable video card with at least 32 MB of video RAM.

 

[DosFreak]

Sorry, http://www.ntcompatible.com/thread31437.html

 

[Guest]

Thanks, Paul. You were right... my pc doesn't have the space. I'm currently
looking into a Dell, and was wondering if someone could tell me if this one
would do the trick:

IntelTM PentiumTM 4 processor 520 with HT Technology (2.8GHz, 800 FSB, 1MB
L2 cache)

Microsoft® Windows® XP Home Edition

256MB Shared7 Single Channel DDR2 SDRAM at 400MHz

17" (16.0"vis) CRT Monitor

40GB6 Serial ATA hard drive

Integrated IntelTM Graphics Media Accelerator 900TM

Processor: Intel® Pentium® 4 processors with HT Technology - 500 sequence
processors - Up to 3.4-GHz speed. The processors include Hyper-Threading
Technology which can handle multiple productivity and multimedia applications
simultaneously including productivity, gaming, music and movies.

Memory: DDR2 Memory (256MB up to 4GB) that enables clock speeds at 400MHz
for exceptional PC performance.

Graphics: The new 128MB PCI ExpressTATI RadeonT X300 SE graphics card for a
true to life video and game experience.


Seeing as I would be purchasing this pc solely for gaming and such (as I
love my current pc, despite this issue), I just want to be certain that it
would do the job. From what I've checked, I do believe it would be fine, but
I would like to make certain before going ahead with the purchase.

Thanks,
Amanda

 

[Jimmy S.]

Hi Starshine,

Everything is great, including the most important factor:
the ATI RadeonT X300 SE graphics card which is one
of the supported video cards listed by EA Games:

ATI RadeonTM series (7000 or better)
a.. Radeon 7000/VE series (non-T&L; requires 2.0 GHz processor)
b.. 7200, 7500
c.. 8500, All-In-Wonder 8500
d.. 9000, 9200, 9500, 9600, 9700, 9800
e.. X300, X600, X800

For the list of graphic cards supported by SIMS 2:
http://thesims2.ea.com/help/detail.php?help_id=21

--
Cheers, Windows XP MVP Shell / User
Jimmy S. http://mvp.support.microsoft.com

Game FAQs: http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=FH;[LN];gms
Visit my MSN Zone.com and Gaming Help Site: http://mvps.org/nibblesnbits
MS Assisted Support: http://support.microsoft.com/select/?target=assistance
My advice is donated "AS IS" without warranty; nor do I confer any rights.
_________________________________________________________

| Thanks, Paul. You were right... my pc doesn't have the space. I'm currently
| looking into a Dell, and was wondering if someone could tell me if this one
| would do the trick:
|
| IntelTM PentiumTM 4 processor 520 with HT Technology (2.8GHz, 800 FSB, 1MB
| L2 cache)
|
| MicrosoftR WindowsR XP Home Edition
|
| 256MB Shared7 Single Channel DDR2 SDRAM at 400MHz
|
| 17" (16.0"vis) CRT Monitor
|
| 40GB6 Serial ATA hard drive
|
| Integrated IntelTM Graphics Media Accelerator 900TM
|
| Processor: IntelR PentiumR 4 processors with HT Technology - 500 sequence
| processors - Up to 3.4-GHz speed. The processors include Hyper-Threading
| Technology which can handle multiple productivity and multimedia applications
| simultaneously including productivity, gaming, music and movies.
|
| Memory: DDR2 Memory (256MB up to 4GB) that enables clock speeds at 400MHz
| for exceptional PC performance.
|
| Graphics: The new 128MB PCI ExpressTATI RadeonT X300 SE graphics card for a
| true to life video and game experience.
|
|
| Seeing as I would be purchasing this pc solely for gaming and such (as I
| love my current pc, despite this issue), I just want to be certain that it
| would do the job. From what I've checked, I do believe it would be fine, but
| I would like to make certain before going ahead with the purchase.
|
| Thanks,
| Amanda
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| "Paul Smith" wrote:
|
| > | > > Oh, I see. If I need to open that case, that may prove to be a bit
| > > problematic. In the model pc I have, everything is all in one. There is no
| > > tower. It's the Sony Vaio PCV-W600G. Don't know if you're familiar with
| > > that,
| > > but I don't think I can open it myself.
| >
| > Oh dear... From the looks of it even if you can open the case it won't have
| > the space.
| >
| > Although PCs have never been cheaper, you can probably pick up a cheap
| > system from Dell that will do the job, and even if it won't you could buy a
| > graphics card for that fairly cheaply that will run the Sims 2 ok.
| >
| > --
| > Paul Smith,
| > Yeovil, UK.
| > http://www.dasmirnov.net/
| > http://windows.dasmirnov.net/ Windows XP Resource Site.
| >
| > *Replace nospam with smirnov to reply by e-mail*
| >
| >
| >

 

[Buzz]

256MB is quite low spec these days. You'd be wise to upgrade that to at
least 512 MB.

Apart from that, I'm sure you'll be fine.