The System File IsNot Suitable (16-Bit)

[Gramps63]

Trying to install an older game made for Windows 95/98, a
16-Bit Windows Subsystem error occurs. It reads as
follows; "The file is not suitable for running MS-DOS and
Microsoft Windows applications". Microsoft Knowledge Base
Artical-305521 gives a resolution to correct this
problem. However, I'm new at this medium, and the
instructions Microsoft gave seem like a foreign language
to me. If any one could walk me through it, please help.
thanks Gramps63

 

[Chris H.]

Most of the "older" games will run perfectly well on Windows XP. Some need
to use Compatibility Mode (details are in Help and Support), and this
TechNet article will help you:
http://www.microsoft.com/technet/prodtechnol/winxppro/maintain/lgcyapps.mspx

Basically, what Compatibility Mode does is allow the older program to
"think" it is being installed on the operating system for which it was
designed. You also need to pay attention to the game's requirements, and
some need to be installed using Compatibility starting with the installation
itself by going to Start/Run/Browse and locating the install.exe or
setup.exe file on the root of the CD. You can right-click that file, follow
the pattern to use Compatibility Mode and have it install.

After the install, make sure to update the program from the web site of the
creator, then right-click the icon you'll use to launch the game and make
sure the proper Compatibility settings are ready. You also need to make
sure the proper display and color settings are selected.
--
Chris H.
Microsoft Windows MVP
Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
Associate Expert
Expert Zone -

 

[Guest]

thanks Chris H.
The compatibility feature on xp seems not to work. I get the 16 bit windows
subsystem error report saying "this system file....."ect. I found a microsoft
resolution for this problem, but cannot figure out how to use it. Its located
at, "http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;305521". When I
type the instructions I get a "no destination specified for, or wrong the
syntax used on ....... and so on. Now there seems to be nobody online at
Microsoft one can ask for help. It would help if the instruction for the
"resolution" were written for the beginner. Gramps63

 

[Chris H.]

Actually, that's the wrong Knowledge Base file, Gramps. Try the information
in this one:
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;314452&Product=winxp
--
Chris H.
Microsoft Windows MVP
Tablet Creations - http://nicecreations.us/
Associate Expert
Expert Zone -

 

[Guest]

Hi Chris H. Thanks again for your response, but my problem is that I cannot
install the game at all. When I first start the Cd in the ROM drive, I keep
getting the message: "16 Bit Windows Subsystem
C:\windows\system32\autoexec.nt.
the system file is not suitable for running on MS-DOS and Microsoft window
applications. Choose close to terminate rhe application." At this point I
cannot go any farther in the installation process. This happens with or
without useing Compadibility Wizzard. Thanks again for all of your help.
Gramps63