I’m back on Windows XP now – and there are certainly things I miss about Vista already (DWM, in particular). Still, it’s nice to have access to all of my hardware and software services again. Mind you, Vista is still on this machine – on a different drive. I installed Launchy, and while it’s not perfect – it’s a near-perfect replacement for Vista’s Start Menu (at least, in terms of the way I used it). Copernic Desktop Search is back on my PC, although Outlook 2007 has already informed me that it needs Windows Desktop Search for full search functionality (oh god, please don’t make me use Windows Desktop Search again). I don’t think I’ll head into Vista again until I know that HP has updated its software for the LaserJet 3052 – and my “IP FAX” software is equally as important. Dunno. Seems FAX is taking a beating in Vista all the way around (and I’m not referring to the ghastly ‘FAX and Scan’ tool). Graham Neill just blasted me:

I just finished watching your rant on Windows Vista Ultimate. You brought up a few good points. However I am an survivor who is really interested in upgrading to Vista Ultimate. My only hold-back is whether Windows Fax & Scan supports V.34 (Super G3 or 33.6 kbps) faxing. All my equipment is supported under Vista and I have an ATI card so I don’t have the worry about the NVIDIA nonsense. I do, however, have a Multitech MT5634ZPX-PCI-U modem which is Super G3. I send out a lot of faxes for my business and this feature is very helpful in speed. For example, a 5 page fax can take up to 4 minutes to send with a regular modem but will only take 1 minute and 12 seconds with Super G3. I do possess a Vista driver for this modem. The Phone Tools software that I have been using is being discontinued…a major error in judgement as it is the best in the market…and will not be updated to support Vista. There are millions of alienated WinFax users who need software to a) import their WinFax data and fax records and b) give them the ability to migrate and move to updated software. Symantec really dropped the ball on this one. Avanquest could easily pick up these millions by simply supporting them, giving them an easy migration, and supporting Vista. With your connections, can you find out, before I spend CDN $300 on Vista Ultimate Upgrade, whether I am making the right move? Does Windows Fax & Scan support V.34 (Super G3)?

BTW, I’ve gotta send my thanks to SubWolf (Rob) and Sean for healing our servers today. At least our hosting provider didn’t ask us to submit requests by FAX. Of course, I’m now set up to send ‘em again.

Fast FAX Facts