Dec. 8, 2004

Hi, All!

This Week: How do I install two of the same programs in different folders?

I am going to be doing some computer work for 2 different people. They both use Quickbooks. One uses Quickbooks 2001 and the other uses Quickbooks pro 2002. When I try to load these programs on my computer, one overwrites the other. Is there a way to load both programs and keep them separate for each person?

Mary

Mary,

This is a very good question.
Most people don't know that they can change the folder or the hard drive where their programs are installed. Most software setup programs are created the same in that they have two ways to install the software.
On the first couple of windows on an install program there are usually two buttons. One says "express" and one says "custom." If you just click "next" on this screen, the program will install to the most common folder ("C:\program files\softwarename\" i.e., C:\program files\quickenw\").
But if, as for the user above, that does not work, then use the second button that allows you to "customize" your install. When you click on "custom," the install program displays a "Choose Folder" window that allows you to change the hard drive or folder to install your software into called the "Path." You can just change part of the displayed named folder, like changing - C:\program files\quickenw to - D:\program files\quickenw. This change alone will change the installation from a hard drive that may not have much space left on it to a second one that has lots of space. Luckily, most new PC's have huge C:\ drives and do not have a D:\ drive. But say you do not want to put the program in c:\program files\quickenw. By changing the file name on the "path," this installs the program from a sub-folder under the program files folder to its own folder on the C:\ drive. I.E., c:\quickenpro2002. Then, when you use Windows Explorer to view your C:\ drive, you will see a folder named "quickenpro2002" that has your program files in it.
This is a little hard to explain in 300 words, but it is very easy when you view your options during your next software install.

'Til next week, (ComputerFAQ#219)

Robert

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