More Than Just Windows Dressing
On Monday, Microsoft will release Windows 3.1, the newest version of its popular operating system software for IBM compatible PCs. This is the first major upgrade since Windows 3.0 was introduced about two years ago, and it will compete against IBM’s OS/2, which was unveiled Tuesday.
I’ve had a chance to use the new version and find that it has subtle but significant improvements over 3.0.
Windows, a graphic interface that makes it easier to issue commands and run programs, requires an IBM compatible with at least a 286 central processing unit, a hard disk and 1 megabyte of memory. However, I strongly recommend a 386SX or higher CPU and at least 2 (preferably 4) megabytes of memory. Microsoft recommends that you have at least 10 megabytes of free disk space, not counting room for additional programs and data. Windows programs, in general, take up a lot of room.
At first, Windows 3.1 seems pretty similar to Windows 3.0, but there are some important improvements.
To begin with, it’s much more stable. Some Windows 3.0 programs would just stop running (“crash”) for no apparent reason. When this happened, the screen displayed the message “Unrecoverable Application Error,” and you were forced to restart your computer. You weren’t even informed which program caused the problem. Data that hadn’t been saved to the disk was lost.
Programs are less likely to crash under Windows 3.1. If they do crash, you can usually terminate the offending program without interrupting any other programs currently in use. Still, it’s a good idea to save your data frequently.
Although Windows programs still run a bit slower than regular MS-DOS software, the new version causes programs to load and, in some cases, run noticeably faster. I tested Windows 3.1 on several machines and found its performance to be acceptable on a 386SX notebook PC, quite good on a 33-megahertz 386 desktop system and stunning on a fast 486. Microsoft also improved disk performance, allowing Windows to load and save files more quickly.
The Windows file manager--used to locate, copy, delete, move and otherwise manipulate files and disks--is much better.
It’s significantly faster and easier to use. Unlike its predecessor, it works properly with local area networks.
Windows 3.1 is better at managing memory so you can run more programs at the same time. With Windows 3.0, I sometimes found myself running out of memory, even on machines with 8 megabytes of RAM. This is no longer a problem. Windows also uses “virtual memory,” which means that it can use space on your hard disk to simulate RAM.
Like the old version, you can run regular MS-DOS applications inside Windows. DOS versions behave better under Windows 3.1. You can now use the mouse and you can adjust the size of the type.
Windows, which comes on six high-density diskettes, is relatively easy to install. Just type setup and follow the directions on the screen. If you are upgrading from Windows 3.0, the setup program preserves your existing settings.
Most programs designed for Windows 3.0 work fine under Windows 3.1. Some don’t. If you have a program you depend on, it’s always a good idea to check with its publisher before upgrading to a new operating system or environment.
Until June 1, current Windows owners can upgrade to 3.1 for $49.95 by calling Microsoft at (800) 642-7676. Retailers may have it for less. For new users the street price is expected to be about $100.
