View Full Version : Add-on woes in Windows 7 HP SP1
Good evening all.
It has been a while since I've posted here and I'm sorry to say it's re: a problem with SH4 in Windows 7.
I just installed the sim into an external drive where it boots up fine. The problem lies in getting it to launch after I choose the saved game (first one in the list). I will get the scroll on the bottom of the sub screen and then the "wait" box - at which point it does a CTD.
My system:
Windows 7 Home Premium SP1
AMD Phenom II X4 940 processor, 3.00 GHz
4.00 GB RAM
64 Bit OS
Samsung monitor, screen res 1920X1080
Sim was playing outstanding well last night until I downloaded and installed a few "tweaks" for it. Last one I installed was the SH4 "Underwater Trip" but only the plankton removal add-on. It worked very well last night. I'd hate to lose it as it does enhance gameplay in my opinion. Oh, and I also added the "Fuso" add-on which played very well also. I should add I can play quick missions and training scenarios with no problem. What seems to be the problem with the saved missions?
It could be that the save file is broken. Can you load any other save files?
Also, some mods do not take well to being loaded when at sea.
It could be that the save file is broken. Can you load any other save files?
Also, some mods do not take well to being loaded when at sea.
Interestingly enough, I had begun a war patrol before adding the things I downloaded from this site.
First, I'm going to try resurrecting one of the other "saved" files. If that works, it's likely I'll have to just flush this patrol due to a damaged "save" file and start over. Not an issue, since this is the first patrol.
Second, we will know there is an even chance it's the mods themselves being installed after leaving port on the patrol.
I will report results.
les green01
03-13-15, 02:28 PM
if your loading saves you took before you added the mods that the problem start a patrol at base or a new game
merc4ulfate
03-13-15, 10:29 PM
When posting issues post your MOD list from JSGME as it comes from JSGME.
Do not post from memory, do not post what you wish to type please only post the clipboard list from the application.
Thanks, I'll do that. Here we are:
Fall of the rising sun v1.3
IJN Depth Charges Y Thrower Fix
IJN Akagi
Historical Prop rotation
Nisgeis_Range_Ring_and_Bearing
ParaB's fewer radio contacts
Ship pack 1
Pre Pearl Harbor campaign start
Crew Rank Fix
Eye Patch for 1.5
I've started "fresh" in the sim - new patrol - and so far everything seems to be going OK. One interesting glitch - in the sound pop-up panel, the sonar directional control instrument face - with the manual sonar head operation handle at the bottom of the screen - has an extremely blocky appearance to it, and a very rough finish overall. At the same time the handle's finish is smooth and problem-free.
Spoke too soon. Sim now refuses to start. I can go through the opening animations and get to the scroll screen w/Yamato & fleet boat - scroll completes, I then get box telling me the program has developed a problem and Windows is terminating. Earlier Avast gave me a notice saying a sound file had been detected as a potential threat to the system. No - I did not write it down - sorry. I have noticed some crew voices are faint, others are louder; some deck gun shots are louder than others. Getting ready to uninstall and start again from scratch.
les green01
03-14-15, 08:09 AM
this what I do when that happens is remove one mod restart game see if it happens still if so keep going on the list
OK, we'll do this the one-at-a-time way and see which one is causing the indigestion. In the interests of furthering the body of corporate knowledge vis a vis hexes/fixes I will report results as I go along.
CapnScurvy
03-14-15, 09:10 AM
Don't get me wrong, I'm not going to tell you that your mod list is just great.......no compatibility issues. I don't know if the mods you've chosen are going to work with each other or not. You should remove all mods; check your stock game files to see if they are as they were when you first installed the game (that's what the JSGME "Compare Snapshot" does); then do what les green01 says regarding loading one mod at a time to see if the game will work as expected.
What I am going to suggest is you should use Large Address Aware (http://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/large-address-aware.112556/) with the 4 gig ram memory you have. Your 64 bit OS will allow the game to double its availability of the memory you have (the game will only use 2 gigs of memory without LAA), which will help eliminate the possibility of CTD's from lack of memory. Take a look at this previous post (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showpost.php?p=2275145&postcount=25) for additional details and instructions.
Lot's of mods have memory hogging issues over the stock game. Trying to run added ship models with huge image files can really slow down your game. Getting more memory into the mix will help. After all, that's why you bought that new computer with the 4 gigs of ram anyway!
You may still have compatibility problems with your mod list, but with LAA, you at least will have the game running with more memory as you would expect with your computer.
As was already pointed out, never replay a save point that doesn't contain the mod list you currently have loaded through JSGME. The game expects certain files to be as they were when you saved them in order to replay the same event. Adding/removing mods......then replaying a save point is a bad idea! AND, never add/remove mods while out on patrol.....do it in port before going out again. Not all mods need this to happen, but some do. Just make it a habit, needing it or not.
I pulled ALL the mods out of the sim and wanted to see if it would start with no mods at all in it. I still get the notice as described above. I believe it's time for a complete uninstall/reinstall.
CapnScurvy, your post and my last one crossed in the email. Before I uninstall I'll give what you recommend a try. Thanks for the tip!
CapnScurvy, I've used the link in your msg, but don't see the download for the LargeAddressAware app. Where can I find that for download?
CapnScurvy
03-14-15, 11:07 AM
LAA is a great choice for any older game. Many games can be helped with its use. You have to realize that SH4 was released in 2007, with the same SHIII game engine that was first developed back around 2002-2003. Top end home computers only had a fraction of memory that's standard today. CRT monitors were still the standard at 4:3 aspect ratios.....no LCD/LED wide screen flat screens either. The game just wasn't developed for todays standard equipment.
Since your doing a clean re install, please read the documentation for adding JSGME and using it's "Snapshot" feature. It will help to have a future reference point for checking game corruption. And you will, if you add/remove mods on a regular basis.
CapnScurvy
03-14-15, 11:15 AM
CapnScurvy, I've used the link in your msg, but don't see the download for the LargeAddressAware app. Where can I find that for download?
Drill down the first post of LAA and find the "Attached Files:" at the bottom of the post. The LAA app is in the file "laa_2_0_4.zip" file. You need to download it (I usually "save" the compressed download in "My Downloads" folder to go back to at a later time). Make a new folder on your desktop, or put one onto your C:/ drive, then unzip it into there. Once it's unzipped, just follow the instructions.
*Make sure you follow the instructions I have in the earlier post (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showpost.php?p=2275145&postcount=25) regarding changing the games "sh4.exe" properties.
One more thing......If you read the LAA post, you should have read where your computer needs to have at least .NET Framework 3.5 or newer. Check your Windows Control Panel/Programs and Features folder to see if it states "Microsoft.NET Framework 3.5" is on your computer.
Found it. Using WinZip v.19 eval version to unzip but can not unzip to the file I created in C:\LargeAddressAware. For some reason the WinZip says the zip file is empty.
CapnScurvy
03-14-15, 12:01 PM
I use WinRAR for compressing/decompressing .zip files. WinZIP should be OK too.
I just downloaded the laa_2_0_4.zip file. Followed my own instructions, and have the "Large Address Aware Application 41 KB" as expected. Download was not empty.
It's an executionable file, which means left clicking on it will start the application installation to your path of the game.....where ever you put it.
You mentioned you have the game installed on an external drive. Make sure you make the path to the game correct (use the "Browse" feature, to the right of the Path window), ending up at the "sh4.exe" file.
Thanks Capn. I did as you said and got the "sav" file under the .exe for LAA, but when opening the next pane using "Mode - Advanced" there isn't anything showing.
Webster
03-14-15, 12:56 PM
well in the past I have had "occasional" corruption issues when unzipping and opening mods that are compressed using 7zip, but then not opened using 7zip, so I always suggest people "only" use 7zip to open mods because while these corruptions are rare, they do happen so using 7zip takes this risk away.
now as you go to do a clean reinstall of the game, don't forget to go into the main computer programs files to delete any remaining sh4 files still there after the uninstall. if you have a game corruption or any CTD issues it is almost a certainty that those corrupted files will be left behind after the uninstall because the uninstaller removes "known" files so modded or corrupted files are not removed and must be done so manually yourself before reinstalling.
CapnScurvy
03-14-15, 01:13 PM
Thanks Capn. I did as you said and got the "sav" file under the .exe for LAA, but when opening the next pane using "Mode - Advanced" there isn't anything showing.
Did you set the "Properties" of the sh4.exe file as I already mentioned, before trying to use LAA? The games .exe file must have it's "Attributes" changed so it does more than "Read-only".
==========
AND, as Webster just mentioned.......remove all older files from a previous install IF they were left behind. You won't know if they were left behind unless you look for them. Deleting all files/folders in the SH4 folder is a must too!! The SH4 folder is placed in your "Documents" or "My Documents" folder (depending on which OS you use), it contains game options like screen resolutions you chose to use, and all your auto or self made "Save" game points.....get rid of them. The game will make a new SH4 folder when you start the game.
In the middle of the reinstall and I get a msg saying, "The following error occurred on the file "F:\Program Files\Ubisoft\sound.act."
"The system can not find the file specified. 0x2."
Why can't this go smoothly, I wonder?
Here's another wrinkle - now the problem box with the update to v1.4 is saying the same thing the original install was saying, about the sound.act file and not being able to locate it.
I tried opening the SH4 disk and maybe installing the "sound.act" file from one of the two .cab files on that disk. WinZip says both are invalid archives and it can not open either.
I can get the "Ubisoft" and poetry animations, plus the opening screen and scroll. Scroll completes and as soon as it does I get an immediate CTD.
This reinstall has turned out to be a complete bust, I went from a malfunctioning sim to a non-functioning one.
CapnScurvy
03-14-15, 03:46 PM
Maybe we'd better start from the beginning. You gave us the specs of your computer, what about the game?
Is your Silent Hunter game a download or a disk version? If it's a download....from where did you get it.
What's the version of the game your loading? My original disk, bought in 2007, is version 1.0. There are many versions/patches out there, up to the latest Gold Edition DVD disk version 1.5 (which includes the U-Boat Missions).
......now the problem box, with the update to v1.4 is saying the same thing the original install was saying, about the sound.act file and not being able to locate it.
I see your trying to update to version 1.4. So, this tells me you've got some other version of the game to start with. This also tells me whatever original game your trying to load from has the problem with the Sound files. So, the issue is in the game files your starting with for your installation. If your using a DVD disk....any scratches on the face?
*As a side note:
If you're only patching the game to v1.4, are you sure your mod list is compatible with only a version 1.4 game? Any time you don't check to be sure a mod your trying to use is compatible to the version of the game your using spells trouble!!!! Ever here of buyer beware!! It's your responsibility to chose the correct mod for the game your playing. When in doubt....don't use it.
As far as I know, your Fall of the Rising Sun v1.3 is for the 1.5 version of the game. It even states it in the title.......found HERE (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=147988&highlight=fall+of+the+rising+sun).
This isn't your problem now, so let's fix your installation first.
Mescator
03-16-15, 12:27 AM
Just dropping in quickly - I'm also using Avast and I've noticed the same false positive on sound.act. Avast will delete the file every time you run it. Try disabling Avast and reinstalling SH. Provided Avast is disabled for the install and whenever you run it, it works fine.
HertogJan
03-16-15, 04:24 AM
Thanks, I'll do that. Here we are:
Fall of the rising sun v1.3
IJN Depth Charges Y Thrower Fix
IJN Akagi
Historical Prop rotation
Nisgeis_Range_Ring_and_Bearing
ParaB's fewer radio contacts
Ship pack 1
Pre Pearl Harbor campaign start
Crew Rank Fix
Eye Patch for 1.5
The team which created FOTRS remodeled so many vessels I doubt the mods in red will work with it.
If I recall correct the Mod crashed (at least when I run the Mod) when going through the rec. Manual.. it was somewhere between the sub-chasers and fishing trawlers.
CapnScurvy
03-16-15, 09:09 AM
Just dropping in quickly - I'm also using Avast and I've noticed the same false positive on sound.act. Avast will delete the file every time you run it. Try disabling Avast and reinstalling SH. Provided Avast is disabled for the install and whenever you run it, it works fine.
That's just what I was thinking.
Never heard of Avast, but if SSI01 would have popped back in, I would have suggested he check his anti virus vault (if Avast has one) to see what it's preventing from running. The "Sound.act" file is an un moddable file that makes up the basic Silent Hunter game. There's no reason to lose the file on installation except for some external process doing it.
You two guys should buy a lottery ticket together.......the odds of you both having the same problem, at the same time, is amazing!
================
Thanks, I'll do that. Here we are:
Fall of the rising sun v1.3
IJN Depth Charges Y Thrower Fix
IJN Akagi
Historical Prop rotation
Nisgeis_Range_Ring_and_Bearing
ParaB's fewer radio contacts
Ship pack 1
Pre Pearl Harbor campaign start
Crew Rank Fix
Eye Patch for 1.5
The team which created FOTRS remodeled so many vessels I doubt the mods in red will work with it.If I recall correct the Mod crashed (at least when I run the Mod) when going through the rec. Manual.. it was somewhere between the sub-chasers and fishing trawlers.
The "Eye Patch for 1.5" mod is suspect too. If SSI01 is only running a 1.4 version of the game, this mod probably won't work either.
He's got a lot going on with his game installation. I hope he returns to at least get the base game sorted out.
Maybe we'd better start from the beginning. You gave us the specs of your computer, what about the game?
Is your Silent Hunter game a download or a disk version? If it's a download....from where did you get it.
What's the version of the game your loading? My original disk, bought in 2007, is version 1.0. There are many versions/patches out there, up to the latest Gold Edition DVD disk version 1.5 (which includes the U-Boat Missions).
I see your trying to update to version 1.4. So, this tells me you've got some other version of the game to start with. This also tells me whatever original game your trying to load from has the problem with the Sound files. So, the issue is in the game files your starting with for your installation. If your using a DVD disk....any scratches on the face?
*As a side note:
If you're only patching the game to v1.4, are you sure your mod list is compatible with only a version 1.4 game? Any time you don't check to be sure a mod your trying to use is compatible to the version of the game your using spells trouble!!!! Ever here of buyer beware!! It's your responsibility to chose the correct mod for the game your playing. When in doubt....don't use it.
As far as I know, your Fall of the Rising Sun v1.3 is for the 1.5 version of the game. It even states it in the title.......found HERE (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=147988&highlight=fall+of+the+rising+sun).
This isn't your problem now, so let's fix your installation first.
Good morning Cap'n. Starting fresh after a day's rest.
To answer your questions -
My basic game is v1.0 on the disk, red in color. Surface of the CD appears to be OK. I installed that patch to v1.4 and have its shortcut on the desktop. When right-clicking the .exe file in the sim's main folder, the "read only" box is not checked.
The mods are currently in the installer, however, none of them have yet been installed - that is, they are all in the left-hand box.
After cold-booting the computer and starting from scratch, I still get the trouble window saying Windows has detected a problem with the game and closed it. No explanation.
EDIT: Should we be looking at completely uninstalling AGAIN and I keep you apprised of every step and problems encountered?
CapnScurvy
03-16-15, 09:45 AM
After cold-booting the computer and starting from scratch, I still get the trouble window saying Windows has detected a problem with the game and closed it. No explanation.
EDIT: Should we be looking at completely uninstalling AGAIN and I keep you apprised of every step and problems encountered?
Yes a complete un install/re install is in order. As was pointed out, your Avast anti virus may be preventing the game from installing all the files (Sound.act) as it should. So you need to disable Avast in some way to prevent it from removing the .act file. Check this (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=218987) thread out for the same issue.
With the game cleanly removed from your computer, I'd run a defrag too, just for good measure, before re installing.
==============
I'm assuming you've read this sticky thread (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=133290) about removing the game for a complete clean re install.
AND, have remembered to remove the "SH4" folder from the "Documents" folder of your computer.
DO NOT re install JSGME yet. Let's get the stock game up and running to version 1.4 first.
OK - will do it precisely as directed and report.
CapnScurvy
03-16-15, 10:17 AM
Good.
We will get your stock game updated to version 1.4 first, then get LAA running on your game before doing anything else.
How do I go about finding the "documents" folder in Windows 7? That's the folder referenced in the "complete uninstall" post that I have to remove files from.
CapnScurvy
03-16-15, 11:15 AM
How do I go about finding the "documents" folder in Windows 7? That's the folder referenced in the "complete uninstall" post that I have to remove files from.
Give me a minute, I'll post a picture of where you'll find it on a Vista OS (should be simular to Win 7).
CapnScurvy
03-16-15, 11:44 AM
You'll need to learn how to use your computer if you don't know how to find your basic folders/files on it.
Use Windows Explorer (do a search for it) and put a Shortcut of it on top of the Desktop. This will allow you to see what's loaded on your computer within folders and files (if you don't know the difference, better do a search for them too).
By using Windows Explorer you should find a screen something like this:
http://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w132/crawlee/SH4_zps7zqhixvi.jpg
My Documents folder is opened, notice the SH4 folder (where the cursor is)? That's the SH4 folder.......delete it.
I know the un install thread refers to the Registry........ Don't do it. You will get into all kinds of trouble if you don't know what your doing in there.
My structure isn't like yours, and there is no "documents" folder under my name in that string you've got on the left side of the pane. So, only option left was to just type "SH4" into the "search" function for the computer. I do not have an "SH4" folder anywhere. Also searched for "Silent Hunter," "SH4 WOTP," and found nothing to be deleted.
Interesting you should mention that stuff about the registry. I previously went through the steps as outlined in the forum post, there is no "0D00 . . ." in that section of the registry referenced in the post. There was no entry like that in the registry.
CapnScurvy
03-16-15, 12:26 PM
Try following this (http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows_7-files/where-is-windows-explorer-in-windows-7/27b3d85f-5b38-4e4a-86cd-8938e42a76d8) article for getting Windows Explorer to come up on a Win 7 OS.
Do you have a "Computer" link on your Windows Start Button (I don't know if Win 7 even has a Start Button in the bottom left corner or not?!?).
CapnScurvy
03-16-15, 12:31 PM
Interesting you should mention that stuff about the registry. I previously went through the steps as outlined in the forum post, there is no "0D00 . . ." in that section of the registry referenced in the post. There was no entry like that in the registry.
Well, that's good!
If you've looked into the Registry and found no remnants of UbiSoft/Silent Hunter there, then your removal was a success.
==============================
The second answer of the above article may be of help:
Windows Explorer is in Start > All Programs> Accessories. You can make a desktop shortcut to it by right-dragging it to the desktop and clicking Copy here .
Here's an image of what a Win 7 Windows Explorer should look like:
http://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w132/crawlee/Windows_Explorer_Windows_7%20copy_zpsjo3oeeot.jpg
There's a heading called "Libraries" now, but the "Documents" folder is there.
HertogJan
03-16-15, 01:17 PM
If you're gonna clean the Registry type this [Silent Hunter] in the registry 'find' box... This is... WITHOUT THE BRACKES!!!
Go through the entire registry, when you find a key delete it... make sure you select the correct line, then pres [F3[ to continue the search.
If you're unfamiliar with manual registry cleaning and second guess the key string to select (they can be pretty long), set the registry window so you can re-size it, than simply left klick on the bottom and hold so you can move the edge of the window up to the line.
I'm pretty sure the Silent Hunter.exe is still in the registry and a couple of other key leftover's.
Once you've done, restart Windows and after that do a registry defrag and a hdd defrag.
A good registry cleanup and defrag tool is Tuneup Utilities (Got a 30 day trial free of charge)
AVG PC tuneup is very good aswell.
OK, I'm going to do as recommended in this post. Will let you know if I come across any "SH4" stuff.
EDIT: OK, after using "regedit" to find the registry, I went to "registry editor" - "edit" and typed in "silent hunter" in the box as indicated.
The machine dug down to local settings - software - Microsoft - Windows - Shell - Mui cache.
Under this heading, in the box on the right, a series of "things" opened. One of them read:
C\Program Files\x86\Ubisoft\Silent Hunter Wolves of the Pacific\sh4.exe
It is an REG SZ file.
Should I delete this?
BTW this is one of the things that make one reluctant to go digging in the registry - one unwarranted action and there will be hell to pay.
CapnScurvy
03-16-15, 02:19 PM
Yes, delete the whole line. It will be recreated again when you're install again.
I hope you've printed off the instructions from AVGWarhawks first post. That {{0D00.....is the old install cache for the game wizard. Since your going to make another......that's why you delete it too, IF it hadn't been deleted through the games uninstall/install wizard.
OK here goes.
Deleted. Next?
CapnScurvy
03-16-15, 02:25 PM
That C:/Programs Files/x86/Ubisoft........shouldn't be there. Don't you have the game installing to a different drive (External Drive of some drive letter) other than the C:/??
CapnScurvy
03-16-15, 02:37 PM
OK here goes.
Deleted. Next?
Here's what AVGWarhawk posted:
3. Now, in the Registry, go to the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\Curr entVersion\Uninstall{{0D005F09-A5F4-473B-A901-5735C6AF5628} key. [This was the designation associated with SH4 version 1.4] Delete that key (looks like a file/folder).
4. You can also, in addition, go to the HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Ubisoft folder and delete all the Silent Hunter folder(s) there......you will have one or two or more. These don't seem to have any direct effect, but you can do without them. I'd say get rid of them. I did. [Note that it is this entry which identifies the specific designation of the associated key/file which you should delete from the previously mentioned HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\Curr entVersion\Uninstall folder]
5. Exit/close Regedit.
6. Re-boot your 'Puter.
If you've completed this and have removed the above (if they were there), we are ready to move on.
Have you found the "SH4" folder in the "Documents" folder of your computer......it is either there or not?
SH4 was originally installed in C drive until the scroll line beneath the drive turned red indicating it was approaching being full. After the first deletion, I redirected it toward F (external) drive which had more room in it. That C drive file in the registry is indeed an artifact from a previous installation, but never showed up before when I searched the registry. Typing in the value in the "search" box in Registry/Edit made it come up.
And, no, that other value (0D00) is nowhere to be found in the registry, after looking for it using directions provided. It must have been removed during this uninstall.
No "SH4" folder to be found anywhere.
CapnScurvy
03-16-15, 02:55 PM
No "SH4" folder to be found anywhere.
The only place the game creates it is in the "Documents" folder. If you've looked there, then we're ready to move on.
To review: we've uninstalled the game.
Checked for anything that shouldn't be in the Registry.
Checked for the SH4 folder in the Documents folder.
Now, we need to look at your Avast anti virus software. You either need to disable it, or at least re set the settings to have you notified when it plans to take action against a possible threat. It apparently thinks the games "Sound.act" file is going to cause harm.
Next on the agenda. Will open settings and change that parameter. Will be useful for other apps, too.
Will be back shortly.
OK, changed Avast to not scan either CD/DVD drives or any importable media. I now know how to change that parameter if for any reason I want to scan something someone has given or lent me to use, for example. Otherwise, for store-bought disks we can leave this setting off.
At any rate, I think we're ready to go.
CapnScurvy
03-16-15, 04:59 PM
If you've done a defrag on your F:/ drive (since you've uninstalled), you're ready to install the game from the original disk.
Set the path to your F:/ drive and let it install. Do not let it put a shortcut to start the game onto the Desktop. We'll do that later. If there is one still on your Desktop.....delete it.
When it asks to load the DirectX files......let it. I think the wizard uses the DirectX version 9.0c (which may be older than the DirectX version on your laptop, but that's OK) let it load what it wants. No harm in letting it check what files you may, or may not have already on your computer.
Don't add the "Shadow" thing. Or, the Adobe Reader (you definitely have a newer version of it).
When the install is done, DO NOT START THE GAME.
Do another defrag on the F:/ drive.
Then open the Patch 1.4 version and install it. If you don't have a saved copy of it, you can find it here (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/downloads.php?do=file&id=8).
When the 1.4 version is finished installing, we are then ready to put LAA into the game
*As a side note:
You said you couldn't load the game onto the C:/ drive because it's full??? This is going to cause trouble. The game needs space to save things. It uses the Documents/"SH4" folder for that reason. If you don't have enough "Free Space" on your C:/ drive you better make some.
Put pictures onto a flashdrive; delete old Programs/Files you don't need; copy/paste most of what you've added onto the C:/ drive putting it onto the F:/ drive. The game is going to have trouble if you don't give it a little breathing room on the C: drive.
I'll get started on the install/defrag but wanted to send you this first.
I right-clicked C drive to determine available space. Stats are:
417GB used
48.4GB available.
CapnScurvy
03-16-15, 05:36 PM
Wow, I don't understand why it would balk on putting the game onto the C:/?!
48 gigabytes is plenty for an SH4 installation.
I'd say you could always do a little spring house cleaning, but 48 gigs should be more than enough to work with.
OK, I'm installing per your instructions. Will let you know when the basic install is done.
F drive is a 1.81TB drive. Only .98TB is used, the rest is free space. I'm defragging that right now. This may take a while. After that comes the install. I will proceed, as previously noted, IAW your instructions. Do you want to knock off for the night?
CapnScurvy
03-16-15, 08:38 PM
Sure can. I'll check in with you tomorrow. I'm thinking things are going to be alright. So much so, I've got your next steps lined out for you. Here's what to do next after getting the game installed up to version 1.4:
Add the Large Address Aware.
Using Windows Explorer, go to your F:/ drive and find the "Silent Hunter Wolves of the Pacific" game folder. Left clicking on it will open it. If your "View" menu is set to display "Icons" you should see something like what's in the right pane:
http://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w132/crawlee/SH4_1.4_zpsdv2gmirk.jpg
All these folders/files make up the game. Notice on the lower line, 2nd from left, is the Sound.act file that was missing on your install. Your's may not look like these, they probably aren't in the same position. But, the number of files and what they are, should be the same.
The mouse cursor is positioned next to the "sh4.exe" file (one of two with a black sub as an icon). Right click the file, you'll find a group of tabs, open "Properties" and make sure the "Attributes" section has nothing check marked.
If the Read-only checkmark box is clear, close the file.
You should have the LAA download somewhere on your computer, open it and follow these instructions:
Basic mode:
http://img.techpowerup.org/100219/basic.png
1) Open an executable to modify (click on the "..." button to browse). Alternatively, you can drag and drop a file on the gray text box.
2) Check or uncheck the box specifying whether or not you want to make it large address aware.
3) Click on save to commit the changes.
Step One, means for you to display the complete "Path" to find the sh4.exe file.
Step Two, put a check mark in the box.
Step Three, save your settings by pushing the Save button.
=========
To check your app, open it again, this time open the Advanced Mode. You should find the correct path to your sh4.exe....with the LAA line showing "True". LAA is now configured to the game.
=========
I would start the game for the first time now and check a few things.
Make sure the version of your game (1.4) is displayed in the lower right hand corner of the Main Game Screen.
Open the "Options" menu and set your resolution to whatever your native Windows OS uses. Your resolution won't change until you close the game, and restart for a second time. Change any other options to your liking.
At this point I'd shut things down, returning to Windows. Make a Shortcut of your "sh4.exe" file, putting it on your desktop (if that's how you like to start the game). It's now time to add JSGME.
=============
DO NOT use the original JSGME from the older setup. NONE of IT. Delete it all, including the "MODS" folder with the older mods you used. As far as I can tell most of them were for a version 1.5 Silent Hunter game. Get a fresh copy of JSGME and install it to your main Silent Hunter Wolves of the Pacific game folder. When you've done it right there should be these four folders/files found in your main game folder that are from JSGME:
http://i175.photobucket.com/albums/w132/crawlee/b567b8d1-8986-4f5a-b782-3a072e2a735f_zps6556a379.jpg
Open the JSGME.exe file, and find in the center of the window the "Tasks...." menu. Open it, now click on "Generate snapshot of game files". This will take some time, but its making a record (Snapshot) of your clean game files. Once done, your ready to play.
Any time you think something has happened to your game that doesn't seem right, use the "Compare Snapshot" task to see if anything has changed with your stock game files. Do this with NO MODS activated in-game. This can easily save you time to see if a re install is in order.
You should be good to go after this.......just don't use mods for a version 1.5 Silent Hunter game!!
Mescator
03-17-15, 04:06 AM
OK, changed Avast to not scan either CD/DVD drives or any importable media. I now know how to change that parameter if for any reason I want to scan something someone has given or lent me to use, for example. Otherwise, for store-bought disks we can leave this setting off.
At any rate, I think we're ready to go.
This isn't enough mate. It will leave the discs alone for a scan, but when you try install or run it the file will be copied to the RAM for execution. Anti-Virus programs watch this like a hawk as virus's must generally be copied there to execute properly as well.
You'll need to either exempt the file or, for the sake of trouble shooting, disable all avast shields while trying to get it going. That'll let SH run with impunity while you sus out your issues.
Obviously that will open you up to threats, so remember to turn it back on or just use the timed options!
I've been doing some research into the Avast application. Right now it's disabled until I restart the computer, which I will do after the install.
I also run Sniper Elite V2 via Steam on this machine, and now some program is blocking the .exe file in that sim to keep it from running. Until last night it was working fine. I've sent an email to Avast Support to have them tell me EXACTLY, step by step, how to allow SH4, SE2, MS Flight Simulator 2004 and others to run on this machine without interference. For some reason Avast is determining any .exe file from any source is a threat to this machine and blocks that action. I'm trying to get comprehensible instructions that allow me to permanently block that action by Avast. Disappointing.
CapnScurvy
03-17-15, 08:54 AM
I'm not going to be much help. I've used AVG anti virus for years without a problem. I would think Avast has a setting for allowed files to be accepted. You just need to find the proper menu to allow user preferences to be made.
I don't know how you added Avast to your system (download, or off a disk), you may need to remove Avast completely (including Registry references) then install SH4. You'll re install Avast after. Making note of any possible interference in the future.
I'm going to shut down Avast using the "restart when computer restarted" option. Still waiting for their tech services dept to email w/the cure for this tendency to eat .exe and sound files.
F was defragged last night. SH4 1.0 was installed this morning, w/Avast disabled. No apparent glitches in the installation. I did NOT run the game after installation. Did another defrag on F. I am now downloading patch silent_hunter_4_1.4.exe as I write this. Will then install the patch. At that point I will come back up and let you know it's done.
EDIT: Patch to 1.4 installed without any notifications re: problems. Ready for the next installment.
HertogJan
03-17-15, 10:11 AM
redo a defrag first... it might seem a bit much but I can tell you first hand, you'll have a 2% fragmentation after 1.4 is installed and suppose you install 1.5 after, defrag again :shifty: its a pain but really need to do it.
HertogJan
03-17-15, 10:17 AM
Once last defrag has been done make a clean copy of the data folder and save it somewhere safe. You don't want to do the whole procedure again when thing get FUBAR, if that happends you simply copy and past the Data folder back over the old and your done!
Install JSGME in the main directory folder of Silent Hunter and run it once, it will have created a new folder called [MODS].
After running it close it and restart JSGME, in the window (in the middle) you'll see tasks, click on it. There you'll see options like make snapshot, do that let it do it's thing and you'll be ready to put Mods in to the [MODS] folder.
Proceeding IAW your instructions.
CapnScurvy
03-17-15, 11:53 AM
I'm going to chime in on defraging.
Anytime you plan on removing programs/files, or adding new ones (games, Photoshop, Favorites List, E-Mails......whatever) you should consider doing a defrag on your computer. With a 500+ gig C:/ drive that's nearly full, there's a lot of "stuff" on it. You might want to move/delete some of it seeing you have that big external drive. Without a doubt defraging the drive your moving things to, then defraging the drive you opened up is very important. Keeping things nice and neat; bunching related files together will increase access time. It will keep your computer humming along, with as little lag time as possible.
SH4 requires 6 Gb drive space to install and operate within. Anytime a program requires that kind of space......do a defrag before adding it, then another after. Do a "maintenance defrag" every once in a while too.
It may take a while to complete, but it's well worth it on all your drives.
Doing the post-install defrag on F drive now. 23% completed. Will advise.
Forgot to mention W7 has an auto-defrag built into it. Mine is done every Wednesday at 1AM.
Hello everyone. Just got the machine back from the shop after I had problems with it, besides fixing the problem got a general cleanup that seems to have boosted performance a little. It was also eating some sims' .exe files. That seems to have been fixed as well. So far no problems with that.
I've gotten everything done as described in the last post. I haven't added any mods yet. Does anyone recommend a personal preference for loading them?
HertogJan
04-02-15, 02:41 AM
Okay,
Couple of questions for yah...
1 _ Installed game on drive other than C:\?
2 _ Updated to 1.4 and did a defrag of that drive?
3 _ Installed LAA as per instructions?
3a _ Checked if SH4.exe is in fact LAA (Go to LAA and open advanced settings to check).
4 _ Installed JSGME as per instructions?
5 _ Check marked 'Run as Administrator' in SH4.exe properties?
6 _ Did you start SH4 to see if the game starts?
I'm asking this so everything is as it should be, it should run 'vanilla'.
When it does, make a copy of the Data folder (put it somewhere safe) and make a snapshot with JSGME (can be found under 'Tasks').
When all this is done post your Mod list so we can help you with the install order. If you want to use the Mods you listed in post #6, I'd recommend not installing the the Mods marked in red in post #27 and the "Eye Patch for 1.5" CapnScurvy suggested.
(It's basically putting one Mod in first and try it out, then add a new one and test again.. and so on).
merc4ulfate
04-02-15, 07:32 AM
The is no need to defrag any computer after Vista. The OS does that for you.
Why people load games and programs to system drives I'll never know but:
One: your OS is fine
Two: your Ram is fine
Three: you do not need the LAA adjustments
Four: people would do well to have an extra hard drive and have all your programs loaded on to that drive not your system drive.
I run Win7 Professional
My system drive is 300 gigs with 200 used
My program drive is 2 terabyte partitioned into two 1 terabyte partitions.
It sounds like you have unstable hardware or an unstable OS.
I built my system 7 years ago. My mods :
Generic Mod Enabler - v2.6.0.157
[Z:\SHOM\MODS]
1_TriggerMaru_Overhaul_2-5
1_TMO_25_small_patch
RSRDC_TMO_V502
RSRDC_V5xx_Patch1
Improved Ship Physics 2.6_TMO_RSRDC
TMO_Visuals_for_RSRDC
FJB_Navigation_Maps
FJB Color Navigation Map
Gyoraitei
11 New Ships + Yamato AA Fix by Miner1436
Ship pack 1
More_DDs_for_AITorpedoLauncher
SMALLER SEA PLANTS SMALL
SMALLER SEABED ROCKS
#5 Depthcharge Sound
#2 Other Clouds
Webster's Eliminate Floating Plankton for v1.4 and v1.5
Aircraft_reflections
Hull_Numbers
TMO Smoke Mod
AITorpedolauncher
By the way it is always best practice if you change your mods list to create a new, fresh unaltered game with a new, fresh unaltered JSGME. You can even have multiple SH4 installation with different mods list in them but removing mods and then adding other can sometimes cause errors to pop up. No it doesn't happen all the time but then there will be that one time it does and you'll be pulling your hair out trying to figure out why your game has turned into Captain Evil on you so it is best to to do clean installs with mod changes.
CapnScurvy
04-02-15, 09:16 AM
I've gotten everything done as described in the last post. I haven't added any mods yet. Does anyone recommend a personal preference for loading them?
Hello SSI01
If you've followed the procedure outlined in this post (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showpost.php?p=2297919&postcount=53), then I would play the stock game for a while to see what's what? No glitches, or problems after a few hours of play......then, try a mod. Get used to the stock game before modifying it.
Remember, you only have version 1.4 of the stock game. Any mod you use must be made for version 1.4.
A shameless plug......why not try Optical Targeting Correction (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/showthread.php?t=181172). The correct edition of "Optical Targeting Correction for SH 1.4" is further down the thread; the direct link can be found HERE (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/downloads.php?do=file&id=3333) (but, I would still read the thread about the OTC modification to know what you're getting). Also, add the "OTC for 1.4 Patch_1 (http://www.subsim.com/radioroom/downloads.php?do=file&id=3937)" for the 1.4 edition.
Play the game to see the difference between the stock game and the OTC modified game. Play for a few hours, then remove the mods in reverse order they were added within JSGME (last one in.....first one out). Open the JSGME "Tasks...." menu and allow the "Compare Snapshot" to check the stock game for any changes. Do this whenever you think something isn't as it should be.
All's good?.....play as you like.
==========
Just a word of caution to you, or anyone modding for the first time.
Don't load up your game with every mod that sounds good. Not only does the version of the stock game determine which mod(s) to use, but so does the compatibality of the mods you plan to use. Not every mod will be compatibale with another. If a mod doesn't say its compatibale with another.......it's probably NOT.
So, don't use it until you become familiar with what the two mods do, and what becomes changed when you add the second one after the first. It's always been my opinion, less is better.
Gentlemen:
Everything was defragged/installed/settled as instructed in the various posts. Yesterday I went ahead and added the OTC and attendant patch for 1.4, as a little treat and based upon a totally unbiased recommendation. I also ensured the LAA modification took as intended.
I am happy to say the results are UNBELIEVABLE. Graphics are now incredibly smooth; gameplay is likewise like glass. There are a great number of additions in the OTC add-on, little things that contribute to the atmospherics of the sim, thus making SH-WOTP a truly "immersive" experience (no pun intended).
So far the only add-ons are the OTC and patch, plus Ship Pack 1 which seems to be functioning fine. Intentions are to add Historical Prop rotation, Sofu Gan, and ParaB's Fewer Radio Contacts after review to ensure they are compatible with v. 1.4.
Is there something available that will allow one to set acceleration to, say, 32X when nearing home port and let it stay there despite every last lookout call under the sun about ships, aircraft, land installations, etc that cause gameplay to drop back to 1X?
I want to thank everyone who contributed their time and patience to the regeneration of this excellent sim on my machine. It has particular meaning to me as the copy I have I bought in Hawaii years ago - the same place where so many fleet submarines departed from and never returned.
CapnScurvy
04-03-15, 04:58 PM
Gentlemen:
Is there something available that will allow one to set acceleration to, say, 32X when nearing home port and let it stay there despite every last lookout call under the sun about ships, aircraft, land installations, etc that cause gameplay to drop back to 1X?
You can adjust Time Compression yourself by using Notepad to open the Data/Cfg/Main.cfg file. Here's what to do:
Remove all mods from the "Activation" list within JSGME. Find the stock game "Main.cfg" file using the Data/Cfg/... path; then copy/paste it into the OTC mod's Data/Cfg folder.
Open (Double click) the Main.cfg file you just copied/pasted and replace the [TIME COMPRESSION] parameters with this one:
[TIME COMPRESSION]
TimeStop=0
RealTime=1
LandProximity=1
CriticalDamage=1
CrewEfficiency=256
AirEnemyDetected=1
SoundEffects=256
CharacterAnim=32
EnemyDetected=4
RadioReport=32
Particles=32
PrayState=8
HunterState=32
3DRender=32
Maximum=1024
Save your changes.
This configuration may not stop all what you feel is slowing you down, but it should be better for you in the long run.
The stock v1.4 game looks like this:
[TIME COMPRESSION]
TimeStop=0
RealTime=1
LandProximity=4
CriticalDamage=1
CrewEfficiency=128;1
AirEnemyDetected=1
SoundEffects=2
CharacterAnim=4
EnemyDetected=8
RadioReport=8
Particles=8
PrayState=8
HunterState=32
3DRender=32
Maximum=8192
Let me tell you why I like the change.
LandProximity should drop to "Real Time" for obvious reasons.
So should Critical Damage, and AirEnemyDetected. (Actually, Time Stopping=0 isn't a bad idea for these...it will pause the game).
EnemyDectected is for surface ships, a parameter of 4x is good for it (they won't sneak up on you as fast as aircraft).
The rest will lower time compression, but not as much as stock.
In my opinion, Maximum=1024 is the most one should use with this game...to keep slowdowns/ctd's at a minimum.
**One other thing to do before restarting the game. Go to your "Documents/SH4" folder and delete the "Cfg" folder and all of its contents. If you don't your modified changes to the Data/Cfg/Main.cfg file won't appear in-game. Yes, you'll need to reset your "Options" again....but this will be the last time you need to do it.**
Try the Time Compression changes and see what you think.
I've read where in SHIII if the Watch Officer is not on deck when your running on the surface, your watch crew won't report neutral/friendly targets. I don't know if this is true or not with SH4, but remove him from the Crew Management slot to see if that helps. I know if your running submerged, keeping your periscope down will eliminate unwanted reports.
HertogJan
04-04-15, 02:25 AM
:Kaleun_Applaud: WELCOME TO THE PACIFIC! :Kaleun_Party: SSI01
**One other thing to do before restarting the game. Go to your "Documents/SH4" folder and delete the "Cfg" folder and all of its contents. If you don't your modified changes to the Data/Cfg/Main.cfg file won't appear in-game. Yes, you'll need to reset your "Options" again....but this will be the last time you need to do it.**
Why not change the .CFG file there :06:
CapnScurvy
04-04-15, 08:14 AM
Why not change the .CFG file there :06:
You're talking about the "Main.cfg" file within the "Documents/SH4" folder, compared to the "Main.cfg" file within the "Silent Hunter Wolves of the Pacific/Data/Cfg" folder.
They are both the same file.....the game creates the "SH4" folder (with all of its contents) anytime it finds the SH4 folder is deleted (or just parts of it deleted). It will not change the SH4 folder as long as the SH4 folder is intact with its core folders/files.
What this means is anytime you delete the contents of the SH4 folder, you'll have to remember to add your modified Main.cfg file to it again in order to keep your changes (like the Time Compression changes). With the modified Main.cfg file within the game.....it will be added to the SH4 folder automatically every time the SH4 folder needs to be re created.
This then brings up the question.....Why delete the SH4 folder at all?
The number one reason is to keep the game running smoothly. Here's a couple of reasons:
1. To delete the corrupted Saved game points that seem to never replay right (your automatic game saves, as well has the player created saves are kept within the SH4 folder).
2. To eliminate the conflicts between a modded game that has leftover files from a previous mod that JSGME lost track of. We have all heard of the rule "Add this mod while in port". That's because the game will automatically create a saved game point with your modified files, within the SH4 folder, when you leave port. If you remove the mod at a later time, then try to play the same saved game point without the same modified files in-game.....CTD's are in your future.
What's the cure.....let the game re create the SH4 folder.
Sure, if your trying to complete the entire war campaign and you're in 1945......well, don't change mods. Keep what your doing and finish the campaign. But, if you change mods like changing your socks.....delete the SH4 folder as often as you can.
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