Windows Vista and CS3

By now you've probably heard enough about Mac OS X Leopard, so I thought I'd break away and talk about Windows Vista and Adobe CS3.

We all know that Windows Vista has its own plethera of issues with its operating system. Bu there are several things you can do to ensure that Adobe CS3 is not the cause of any headaches or (eek!) crashes.

Many different factors can cause system errors, including conflicts among device drivers, applications, operating system settings, hardware, and corrupt elements in specific files. Although a system error may occur only when you work with CS3, the application may not necessarily be the cause -- it may be the only application that uses enough memory or processor cycles to expose the problem.

Here are some guidelines from Adobe. Please not that you must be logged on as an administrator to perform some of the procedures.

Some of these procedures require you to locate hidden files and hidden folders. Some procedures require you to locate files by their full file names, which include extensions (for example, example_filename.ini). By default, Windows Explorer doesn’t show hidden files, hidden folders, and file name extensions that it recognizes.

To show hidden files, hidden folders, and all filename extensions in Windows Explorer:
In Windows Explorer, choose Tools > Folder Options.
Click the View tab in the Folder Options dialog box.
In Advanced Settings, select Show Hidden Files And Folders.
Deselect Hide File Extensions For Known File Types.
Click OK.

Make sure you meet the minimum system requirements for Adobe CS3.
Seems simple enough but there are people out there that like to cheat and try to get by.
It doesn’t work. Pony up and buy more RAM.

Here are the requirements:
Intel Pentium 4 or Pentium 5, Centrino or equivalent processor
Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium, Business, Enterprise Ultimate (certified support for 32-bit editions only)
1GB recommended; 512 MB minimum
2GB of available hard-disk space
1024 x 768 minimum screen resolution 16-bit video card (24-bit screen display recommended)
Internet or phone connection required for product activation
DVD-ROM drive

Install current Windows service packs and other updates.
Updates to the Windows operating system improve its performance and compatibility with applications. You can obtain Windows service packs and other updates from the Microsoft website at www.windowsupdate.com. For assistance installing service packs and other updates, contact Microsoft technical support.

Reinstall and run Adobe CS3 with no other applications running.
After you install, be sure to run the Adobe Updater for the latest patches and updates. Then run your applications with no other software running. If the problem persists, contact Adobe.

If you still experience fatal errors or your application lags, contact us or go to the Adobe Support Center at http://www.adobe.com/support/ for more information. Be sure to make notes on what application you were in, the file size, what command it crashed on, etc. The more information you can throw at them, the more accurate and helpful they will be.

Good Luck!