No Sound on Skype (Vista)

Update 07/08/17:
The problem with Skype re-occured, probably because of an automatic update. This time I was able to make it work on Vista by downgrading Skype to version 7.34.0.102. Strangely, the version designed for Windows XP and Vista did not work with the same sound problem. The version for Windows 7 and above does work, but produces a security error at startup that can be easily bypassed.

Version 7.34.0.102 (Windows 7 version) can be downloaded here: http://www.skaip.org/skype-7-34-0-102-for-windows


There seems to be a problem with the latest version of Skype and Windows Vista.

The program starts and appears to operate normally, but when making a call, incoming audio does not function correctly. When calling the 'Sound Test Service' contact, audio works for a few brief seconds but then cuts out.

After looking at two Windows Vista computers (a laptop and a desktop with different sound chips), I concluded that the only way to resolve the problem was to downgrade the version of Skype to one that still worked OK.

Fortunately, 'oldversion.com' still has a copy of Skype 7.16.0.102 available, and this works with the audio:

http://www.oldversion.com/windows/download/skype-7-16-0-102

I was able to uninstall the newest version using 'Programs and Features' in Control Panel, then reinstall 7.16.0.102 using the above link. I then disabled automatic updates within Skype (Tools - Options - Advanced - Turn off automatic updates - Save) to prevent the same problem occurring.

Around the world in 80 days Access Violation 0X00580681 Error

A customer couldn't start the game 'Around the world in 80 days', purchased from Big Fish Games. Clicking on the icon resulted in the following error:

I was able to resolve the problem with the following steps:

1. Press and hold the Windows flag key in the bottom left corner of the keyboard and tap the 'r' key at the same time.

2. In the Run box that appears, type in %programdata% and click on OK.

3. In the new window that appears, locate and click on the folder titled Playrix Entertainment.

4. Press the delete key on the keyboard and click on Yes to confirm in the window that appears.

5. Click the cross in the top right corner of the screen to close the window down, then try starting the game again.