photo tech help please

[Naomixxx]

Hi,

I recently lost most of my software on my laptop (acer) and I'm now unable to open cds of photos - before my laptop crashed I had no problems. Does anyone know of any safe downloads etc which would enable me to open video dvds as well as photo cds? I've got msn windows live - is it possible to use that system to download/open photo cds etc? If so, how?
A big thanks in advance.

Naomi XXX

[Twingo]

Is your laptop running XP or Vista? If its Vista it should just work straight away.

However if its XP then you need to install a decoder, before it can playback the discs as XP does not include one by default. You can install a decoder by getting powerdvd/windvd/nero etc etc.

this link may help as well
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/usin ... ril15.mspx

[Naomixxx]

Hi Twingo,

Thanks very much for the info.
My laptop is running XP.
I'll try the link you've given and let you know - thanks again.

Naomi XXX

[Twingo]

There should be some software CD's that came with the laptop, these would probably include the DVD software you need, but failing that you can download a free trial from intervideo/cyberlink.

[Naomixxx]

Hi Twingo,

Thanks for your reply.
I downloaded what you suggested but was still unable to open my photo cds and my dvds. Do you think it would be better to pay for a decoder as oppposed to relying on a free download and if so, which one?
Thanks in advance and for all your help - much appreciated.

Naomi XXX

[Naomixxx]

Hi Captain Wow,

Thanks very much for that - I'll check out the link.
Really appreciate your help.

Naomi XXX