This is an update on the previous post How I Upgraded My Sony Laptop to Windows 7 Ultimate.
I am happy to report that Windows 7 is still running flawlessly.
I am also happy to report that Sony has changed its stance to "If your computer meets the system requirements to run the Windows® 7 operating system, your model should be able install and run Windows® 7." Sony still does not provide drivers or support for Windows® 7 for this model but this new stance is much better than "Don't upgrade, just go buy a new laptop if you want to run Windows 7."
As far as the drivers concerned, I have had two issues so far: Vaio update crashes anytime the customer starts. I just get a 'Close this program' notice. Second issue is that I was not able to get audio when I used the HDMI out. This is not something I do often but it would be nice to get it fixed. I have not had time to research solutions to these issues but as soon as I find new information, I'll post it here. It would be nice to hear from you if you know any way to solve these issues.
Well, there is one more thing: Running Windows XP on Windows 7!
I have another copy of Windows 7 installed on my desktop. I have downloaded and installed Windows Virtual PC and Windows XP mode. It is way cool to have your Virtual Windows XP PC running in its own window. Well, it is not possible to do that on Sony VGN-FZ180 because..., surprise surprise, Sony turned of the Intel Virtualization Technology and there is no way to turn it back on. According to Intel Processor ID Utility the CPU supports Virtualization Technology. There is no BIOS option to enable it though. Again, this is not a pressing concern at this time and I have not taking the time to find an updated BIOS or any other solution. If you know a way to enable it, please do so.
Aside from these issues, I can honestly say that Sony Vaio VGN-FZ180E is running much better and faster with windows 7.
It sure would be nice to get a new Sony Vaio Laptop with Windows 7 like the ones below, but sorry Sony, this laptop is still doing a great job and I wish you supported the Windows 7 upgrade.
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I have been running Windows 7 on my Sony Vaio VGN-FZ180E from almost when Windows 7 was released. I had problems for awhile getting the camera to work but finally got that fixed. The only problem I have left is getting the memory stick readers to work. I put the stick in from my camera and nothing. I have looked at everything I can find about drivers for this but nothing seems to works. I did find most of the drivers for Visio and reloaded them and that got almost everything but the memory stick reader working. I am almost to the point of put it back to the original setup so that I will have full functionality.
Any thoughts or suggestions.
Thanks Jim
I have been running Windows 7 on my Sony Vaio VGN-FZ180E from almost when Windows 7 was released, All drivers is working, but doesn’t work FN Functions brightness of video.
Did you get install this driver? Please Help me