Windows 7 Old software compatibility issue and ntvdm.exe missing

[Isaacs]

I am having problems installing a copy of Signlab ES2 on a new Sony laptop I have recently bought with Windows 7 x64. At the end of the installation I get the error message “The program can’t start because ntvdm.exe is missing from your computer. Try reinstalling the program to fix this problem” . After the computer has restarted Signlab opens normally and the HASP dongle is recognised by the computer. As soon as I start using Signlab it kicks me out with the error message “ERROR LOCATING SECURITY DEVICE: 1” – it seems that Signlab cannot find the HASP dongle.
I have reinstalled the program many times and updated the driver for the HASP dongle. I have run all the updates from Window and Sony Vaio – and still the same errors. I have tried running the program in several compatibility modes - Window XP (SP2), Windows XP (SP3), Windows 2000 and Windows 98 – and still the same problem. I tried ringing Cadlink, but they could only suggest I buy a Signlab upgrade or downgrade my new laptop to windows XP as they say it is a compatibility issue. There are issues with upgrading Signlab, as the newer versions are not suitable for my business, and I really don’t want to be downgrading a 3 day old laptop to window XP.
My knowledge is limited, so I am unsure as to whether the ntvdm.exe file is causing Signlab not to recognise the security dongle. I would appreciate any help I can get to fix this problem.
Many Thanks

 

[cybercore]

Hello and Welcome,

if the software was designed for earlier windows versions and compatibility mode doesn't help, you can try running it inside a virtual machine such as Windows XP Mode, Virtual Box, VMPlayer.

 

[Joel Gyllenskog]

Isaacs,
Some customers had trouble on 64 bit Windows 7 with dongles because of a filter that AMD added. This software is supposed to improve the quality of audio files, but it has the nasty side effect of disabling dongle drivers. Here is a link to a page on the SmartDongle web site that tells how to remove the filter: Remove AMD USB Filter Driver from ATI Catalyst Install Manager | SmartDongle Many users have found this helpful.

Joel