Windows 8.1 Upgrade

[PeterBJ]

I have just upgraded my new computer from Win 8 to Win 8.1.

The upgrade claims to be free for owners of Win 8 computers. It is free in terms of money, but I think you pay by giving Microsoft information. The upgrade is not available from Windows Update, nor can it be downloaded as a program or an .iso file from the web. I consider the upgrade a service pack, but Microsoft thinks otherwise.

I tried to get the upgrade from the App Store, but was told I was not connected to the internet (?). I found out the problem was I had never created a Microsoft account, so I had to do this. To get this account you need to provide name, date of birth, and E-mail address, to get a security/confirmation code.

After this I could start the online upgrade, and after finishing I had to log onto my computer using my new Microsoft login. My old login no longer worked. This login also logged me onto my newly created Microsoft account. I then had to configure my computer, especially with regards to the Microsoft account. I disabled some tracking services and the cloud drive.

After restart my computer would no longer boot directly to the desk top, but to the Metro UI. Somehow the "Classic Shell" feature to boot directly to the desktop had been disabled. I found out how to log on to a local account in stead of the Microsoft account. I was told that by doing so, I would have to log in to my Microsoft account if I wanted to use the App Store and other services. Yes and so what? Did I put a spanner into the works to Big Brother?

"Classic Shell" still couldn't get my computer to boot directly to the desktop, the option to do so had mysteriously vanished from the properties, but the start menu function still worked. Upgrading my version 3.6.8 to the newest version 4.0.2 solved the problem. According to the Classic Shell FAQ I could do so by installing on top of the old version, and it worked. Now Classic Shell is fully functional again, but maybe only until the first update of the new OS?

Another very annoying thing is that all my printers, except for my iP5200 that was connected to the computer and turned on during the upgrade, were deleted, so I now have to do a reinstall. Hopefully that won't give problems. If I encounter problems with the reinstall I will post them in a new thread, in the Canon InkJet Forum.

 

[The Hat]

My heart bleeds for you PeterBJ,
that’s why I won’t be up-grading to the new O/s any time soon.

I have enough problems trying to come to terms with the new changes on Nifty
without subjecting all my printers to a reinstall.

I’d have a seizure if I couldn’t print for one day.

We do have one computer running on Win 8.1 but I only have the Samsung
laser printer connected to that.

The one big problem I could see is having to upgrade all the drivers
for the Canon printers and I wouldn’t like that one little bit..

 

[PeterBJ]

The one big problem I could see is having to upgrade all the drivers
for the Canon printers and I wouldn’t like that one little bit..

I wonder if getting the drivers from Windows Update could sneak in a firmware upgrade for the newest printers? Maybe only the PGI-5/CLI-8 and older printers are immune to an online firmware upgrade.

Everybody has free access to the Canon Creative Park site, where you can download a lot of stuff ready to print and use a lot of supposedly OEM ink, but with the PGI-x25/CLIx-26 generation, a new site called Creative Park Premium was introduced. You could only get access to this site if you had not disabled ink monitoring, so somehow the site checked the status of your printer. You are supposed to give your money to Canon not to Image Specialists or other refill ink manufacturer, but the resetter changed that.

Thanks for the sympathy. I'm much more a hardware than a software man. I would much prefer to try to bring an old printer back to good working order, instead of having to search the web to find tricks and work-arounds to turn a fancy new OS into something less annoying and more useful.

 

[thanhhuy123]

I'm trying Windows 8.1 on a virtual machine created by VirtualBox. To be honest, I wouldn't move to Win8 unless I get a touch screen. Win 8 UI is kind of designed for touching and wipping with fingers, not mouse...The UI is very fancy and nice, and performance is better...But...no!

As a comparation, Canon vs HP, I don't know much about Canon, but I can still leave the ink mornitoring on, the chip report "empty" but my HP printer still allow me to use all of its functions including the ePrint Web App! I was lucky not buying Canon since resetter is not available in here...HP doesn't need resetter, just refill and go. Epson...well, when we talk about Epson then everyone go for the CISS! I don't know why they all go CISS and not use resetter + refill cart (I myself prefer refilling cart).

 

[PeterBJ]

I admit that Windows 8 is good for use with small portable devices with a touch screen, but for use with a stationary computer with a mouse and keyboard and a non-touch screen the Metro UI is a nuisance, only the old desktop UI is useful IMO.

I'm not an Epson expert, but I think one reason for CISS being popular with Epson printers is that Epson OEM cartridges are very difficult to refill, forcing users to refill compatible cartridges with ARC chips. The Epson print head to cartridge interface is much more suitable for CISS use than the one used by Canon and HP. Also the ARC chips are better suited for CISS use than use with refilled cartridges. A false full indication could ruin a Canon/HP printer, and cause problems with re-priming an Epson print head. With a CISS you can visually monitor ink levels, and avoid running out of ink.

 

[stratman]

I get why people do not want to use Windows 8, preferring a previous OS. And that's all good for them. But that's not my story, and I procrastinated long and hard before installing Windows 8 because of what others had written about it. But then I also read of apps and fixes to tweak Windows 8 and I eventually readied and steadied for the plunge.

Windows 8 does require work in order to get the Desktop to perform similar to previous iterations ow Windows OS. This is a user comfort issue and not the OS itself issue. I have never had a GUI OS from Windows that I did not have to do many things in order to have it look and feel the way I wanted. There is, however, more work to be don with Windows 8 to have the comfortable traditional look and feel enabled.

Any OS upgrade that specifically discusses the Start button should be expected to mess with your Classic Shell app until proven otherwise. This is not anyone's fault. It is what it is. It's a PITA you need to upgrade the Classic Shell software but even they knew it was coming and prepared.

While Microsoft did not push the 8.1 update directly to me when I check for new updates (I don't let MS do automatic upgrades in the background), I did see today an update the then allows 8.0 users update to 8.1.

Update is available that enables a notification to be displayed that helps you update Windows 8 or Windows RT to Windows 8.1 or Windows RT 8.1
Article ID: 2885699

Yeah, it is circuitous and a few days past the start of availability of 8.1 but MS has done rolling updates before and an extra couple clicks of the mouse to get to the 8.1 update isn't a big deal. I do like it doesn't force the update and gives you ample opportunity to figure out the need/value of 8.1 before it's done. I do not know how easy or even possible a rollback from 8.1 to 8.0 is.

The Start screen or Metro UI does present a change in paradigm beyond the idiosyncrasies of the Desktop. Yet some of these issues can be surmounted as well. First, when you have set up Desktop to your liking then the need for using the Metro UI can be little or none. Additionally, and outside of the increased functionality to arrange/manipulate the Metro UI with Windows 8.1, there is at least one app that can add minimize and close/exit to the top right of a typical Windows app screen from within the Metro apps -- no more need to grab the screen top and drag to the bottom to close the window. I would bet there are more solutions available and will continue to pop up over time, so the dislike of Metro UI or even Windows 8.x Desktop is just a matter of getting things to work as you are comfortable with, which means spending some time and effort and using Google or some other search engine to find what it is you want to do or figure out.

I have no desire to use the Metro UI and once I add an image viewing app for the Desktop, and then figure out how to place Notepad and Calculator where I want in Desktop, then I will be fairly good to go with leaving the Metro UI in the dust. I am living with the Charms Bar, lack of a useful Start Menu, not having open apps as tiles spread out across the Task Bar, and having to go to the bottom right of the screen to go to a clean Desktop and I am "Ok" with it

The power under the hood of Windows 8 is better than any other Windows OS system and is a reason to use it. I understand the desire to stick with an older OS. I just upgraded from Win XP Pro 32 bit to Win 8 Pro 64 bit. I also built an entirely new computer except for printer, one hard drive and a couple DVD burners so there has been much more of a learning curve than the OS. I won't say I loved every minute of research and modifying but I do love the power and capabilities of Windows 8, even over my beloved XP Pro.

So feck Metro and 2.5/3 cheers for Desktop. I've always had to use a little elbow grease to tweak an OS to where I've wanted it. No touchscreen wanted or needed. So I'm not looking back on what was because I've got all that and more today.

 

[PeterBJ]

An update. I have now received and installed two updates for Windows 8.1 and Classic Shell is still functioning normally.

 

[stratman]

I have just upgraded my new computer from Win 8 to Win 8.1.

The upgrade claims to be free for owners of Win 8 computers. It is free in terms of money, but I think you pay by giving Microsoft information. The upgrade is not available from Windows Update, nor can it be downloaded as a program or an .iso file from the web. I consider the upgrade a service pack, but Microsoft thinks otherwise.

I tried to get the upgrade from the App Store, but was told I was not connected to the internet (?). I found out the problem was I had never created a Microsoft account, so I had to do this. To get this account you need to provide name, date of birth, and E-mail address, to get a security/confirmation code.

After this I could start the online upgrade, and after finishing I had to log onto my computer using my new Microsoft login. My old login no longer worked. This login also logged me onto my newly created Microsoft account. I then had to configure my computer, especially with regards to the Microsoft account. I disabled some tracking services and the cloud drive.

After restart my computer would no longer boot directly to the desk top, but to the Metro UI. Somehow the "Classic Shell" feature to boot directly to the desktop had been disabled. I found out how to log on to a local account in stead of the Microsoft account. I was told that by doing so, I would have to log in to my Microsoft account if I wanted to use the App Store and other services. Yes and so what? Did I put a spanner into the works to Big Brother?

After backing up my SSD OS and files I took the plunge into upgrading from Windows 8 to 8.1. First there was a Windows Update file that needed to be installed in order to get the 8.1 update which is found in the Apps Store rather than Windows Update as you had said. I do not have a Microsoft account, at least that I can remember but was able to download and install 8.1 UNTIL I got to the MS Account sign in window at the end of the install. Unable to go further and not wanting to sign up for a MS account I backed out of the upgrade. On reboot, Windows 8 was restored.

I then looked up "Windows 8 to 8.1 upgrade Microsoft Account" and found the following instructions on how to log on to Windows 8.1 using a local account instead of a Microsoft Account. The instructions detail how to do this during the install of 8.1 as well ass after you have installed 8.1 so that you can revert back to a local account log on. I imagine you have already done this but the following may help others DURING the install as well as after.

http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/wi...-tip-change-to-a-local-account-in-windows-81/

Also, MS states that the downloaded ~3.5 GB for the installation of Windows 8.1 will be deleted. this is not enitirely true. I have an SSD I use for the OS and applications and have been told that when something is deleted, ie not in the Recycle Bin, then it will be gone without ability of recovery due to the nature of garbage collection / trim with SSD drives. I found Windows 8.1 installation files but clicking on Setup or the executable file gives an error of a missing file. I'm sure someone will figure out how to deploy the 8.1 upgrade via flash drive or DVD soon if not already.

I am going to redo the upgrade now that I understand the process and workarounds better.

BTW, I did leave my printer on during the upgrade process. We'll see if that makes a difference in it remaining installed.

Also, just to let you know, I successfully printed on a disk!

 

[stratman]

I have just upgraded my new computer from Win 8 to Win 8.1.

The upgrade claims to be free for owners of Win 8 computers. It is free in terms of money, but I think you pay by giving Microsoft information. The upgrade is not available from Windows Update, nor can it be downloaded as a program or an .iso file from the web. I consider the upgrade a service pack, but Microsoft thinks otherwise.

I tried to get the upgrade from the App Store, but was told I was not connected to the internet (?). I found out the problem was I had never created a Microsoft account, so I had to do this. To get this account you need to provide name, date of birth, and E-mail address, to get a security/confirmation code.

After this I could start the online upgrade, and after finishing I had to log onto my computer using my new Microsoft login. My old login no longer worked. This login also logged me onto my newly created Microsoft account. I then had to configure my computer, especially with regards to the Microsoft account. I disabled some tracking services and the cloud drive.

After restart my computer would no longer boot directly to the desk top, but to the Metro UI. Somehow the "Classic Shell" feature to boot directly to the desktop had been disabled. I found out how to log on to a local account in stead of the Microsoft account. I was told that by doing so, I would have to log in to my Microsoft account if I wanted to use the App Store and other services. Yes and so what? Did I put a spanner into the works to Big Brother?

After backing up my SSD OS and files I took the plunge into upgrading from Windows 8 to 8.1. First there was a Windows Update file that needed to be installed in order to get the 8.1 update which is found in the Apps Store rather than Windows Update as you had said. I do not have a Microsoft account, at least that I can remember but was able to download and install 8.1 UNTIL I got to the MS Account sign in window at the end of the install. Unable to go further and not wanting to sign up for a MS account I backed out of the upgrade. On reboot, Windows 8 was restored.

I then looked up "Windows 8 to 8.1 upgrade Microsoft Account" and found the following instructions on how to log on to Windows 8.1 using a local account instead of a Microsoft Account. The instructions detail how to do this during the install of 8.1 as well ass after you have installed 8.1 so that you can revert back to a local account log on. I imagine you have already done this but the following may help others DURING the install as well as after.

http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/wi...-tip-change-to-a-local-account-in-windows-81/

Also, MS states that the downloaded ~3.5 GB for the installation of Windows 8.1 will be deleted. this is not enitirely true. I have an SSD I use for the OS and applications and have been told that when something is deleted, ie not in the Recycle Bin, then it will be gone without ability of recovery due to the nature of garbage collection / trim with SSD drives. I found Windows 8.1 installation files but clicking on Setup or the executable file gives an error of a missing file. I'm sure someone will figure out how to deploy the 8.1 upgrade via flash drive or DVD soon if not already.

I am going to redo the upgrade now that I understand the process and workarounds better.

BTW, I did leave my printer on during the upgrade process. We'll see if that makes a difference in it remaining installed.

Also, just to let you know, I successfully printed on a disk!

 

[stratman]

I have just upgraded my new computer from Win 8 to Win 8.1.

The upgrade claims to be free for owners of Win 8 computers. It is free in terms of money, but I think you pay by giving Microsoft information. The upgrade is not available from Windows Update, nor can it be downloaded as a program or an .iso file from the web. I consider the upgrade a service pack, but Microsoft thinks otherwise.

I tried to get the upgrade from the App Store, but was told I was not connected to the internet (?). I found out the problem was I had never created a Microsoft account, so I had to do this. To get this account you need to provide name, date of birth, and E-mail address, to get a security/confirmation code.

After this I could start the online upgrade, and after finishing I had to log onto my computer using my new Microsoft login. My old login no longer worked. This login also logged me onto my newly created Microsoft account. I then had to configure my computer, especially with regards to the Microsoft account. I disabled some tracking services and the cloud drive.

After restart my computer would no longer boot directly to the desk top, but to the Metro UI. Somehow the "Classic Shell" feature to boot directly to the desktop had been disabled. I found out how to log on to a local account in stead of the Microsoft account. I was told that by doing so, I would have to log in to my Microsoft account if I wanted to use the App Store and other services. Yes and so what? Did I put a spanner into the works to Big Brother?

After backing up my SSD OS and files I took the plunge into upgrading from Windows 8 to 8.1. First there was a Windows Update file that needed to be installed in order to get the 8.1 update which is found in the Apps Store rather than Windows Update as you had said. I do not have a Microsoft account, at least that I can remember but was able to download and install 8.1 UNTIL I got to the MS Account sign in window at the end of the install. Unable to go further and not wanting to sign up for a MS account I backed out of the upgrade. On reboot, Windows 8 was restored.

I then looked up "Windows 8 to 8.1 upgrade Microsoft Account" and found the following instructions on how to log on to Windows 8.1 using a local account instead of a Microsoft Account. The instructions detail how to do this during the install of 8.1 as well ass after you have installed 8.1 so that you can revert back to a local account log on. I imagine you have already done this but the following may help others DURING the install as well as after.

http://www.techrepublic.com/blog/wi...-tip-change-to-a-local-account-in-windows-81/

Also, MS states that the downloaded ~3.5 GB for the installation of Windows 8.1 will be deleted. this is not enitirely true. I have an SSD I use for the OS and applications and have been told that when something is deleted, ie not in the Recycle Bin, then it will be gone without ability of recovery due to the nature of garbage collection / trim with SSD drives. I found Windows 8.1 installation files but clicking on Setup or the executable file gives an error of a missing file. I'm sure someone will figure out how to deploy the 8.1 upgrade via flash drive or DVD soon if not already.

I am going to redo the upgrade now that I understand the process and workarounds better.

BTW, I did leave my printer on during the upgrade process. We'll see if that makes a difference in it remaining installed.

Also, just to let you know, I successfully printed on a disk!