WIR Display Modes

[Rasputitsa]

I am attempting to run WIR on a laptop, but am getting a graphics 'tearing' effect. I need to load a graphics driver with the same refresh rate as WIR. Can anyone tell me the refresh rate used by WIR? Thanks.

[Ed Cogburn]

Originally posted by Rasputitsa
I am attempting to run WIR on a laptop, but am getting a graphics 'tearing' effect. I need to load a graphics driver with the same refresh rate as WIR. Can anyone tell me the refresh rate used by WIR? Thanks.

WIR uses the standard EGA display mode 640x350x16 which isn't used anymore, so you'll need to check your video card's docs to see what refresh rate that mode uses. WIR does nothing fancy on the graphics side, its just using an old display mode that predates VGA and SVGA video cards.

[Rasputitsa]

Thanks Ed for taking the time to send the information. I am successfully running WIR under Win XP on another PC, but using the laptop would greatly increase the opportunites.

[Ed Cogburn]

Originally posted by Rasputitsa
Thanks Ed for taking the time to send the information. I am successfully running WIR under Win XP on another PC, but using the laptop would greatly increase the opportunites.

Laptops are always risky because they usually use specialized video controllers. Plus, as time goes on many manufacturers are "forgeting" to provide the necessary support for older display modes from old systems like the CGA and the EGA. I remember several conversations about Compaq machines that ended up requiring an update to its video ROM to properly display EGA. The only suggestion I can give is to investigate your laptop's tech support. Look for any patches to video ROM, or try asking one of the company's tech people if there is any patches or updates to allow older DOS programs using EGA video to run. I don't think this is a WinXP issue, WIR runs fine on a lot of WinXP machines.

[Rasputitsa]

You are right that it is not a Win XP issue as I am running WIR and PAC War in XP on my desktop. The laptop manufacturer has offered no support, no uogrades, no updates. They don't even allow customer contact, it has to be through the retailer. The only reason that I am persisting in trying to get it to run is that WIR was one of the reasons for buying the laptop. Still it is incredible that after all this time, its a piece of EGA low tech software which provides so much enjoyment and thanks to you for keepng us going.