Microsoft reminded the world again this week that XP will mostly go away in less than two years.
Already changed to a newer system? Then you don't have to worry.
Those who still have that wonderful old beater notebook that just doesn't die, or that print server/extra computer, yes I'm talking to you, take note!
While most affected will be business/corporate users it still is worth being aware that changes are coming.
Microsoft link:
Microsoft Ends Support of Windows XP, Office 2003 in 2014!
One concern for many of us is that specialty photographic hardware may not make the transition. There are printers and calibration devices that already don't work beyond XP. Can you afford without planning to suddenly replace that 'go to' print system?? Two years isn't that long really.
Software is already emerging that won't work on older Operating Systems or 32-bit only systems. It may be 32-bit in functionality but it is designed to only work on 64-bit (or greater) environments. Plus you're going to need access to all that added memory capability for some of these mondo camera files already out there.
Finally if you shoot film or are sitting on a pile of unscanned stuff, it is already a problem that most film scanners have not made the transition to Windows 7. There are some, but even compatibility modes hinder and reduce the functionality of many high end products that are no longer made.
Tried to buy a high quality new technology film scanner lately that wasn't manufactured several years ago?? Particularly a drum scanner???
A word to the wise. Get your archives in order and plan your transition.