Windows NT Incorrectly Handles Dongle Support

    Article ID: Q143126
    Creation Date: 13-NOV-1996
    Revision Date: 14-NOV-1996

    The information in this article applies to:

    • Microsoft Windows NT Workstation version 4.0
    • Microsoft Windows NT Server version 4.0

    SYMPTOMS

    An application that uses a third-party parallel port device known as a dongle will fail to function properly on Windows NT 4.0.

    CAUSE

    Windows NT 4.0 incorrectly handles initialization of the parallel ports, keeping third-party virtual device drivers from trapping any I/O. This problem only occurs when Windows NT runs on an Intel x86 or compatible system.

    RESOLUTION

    Microsoft has updated Ntvdm.exe to correct the problem.

    This update is available from Microsoft support channels or directly from the following Internet location:

       ftp://ftp.microsoft.com/bussys/winnt/winnt-public/fixes/usa/nt40/
       hotfixes-postSP1/ntvdm-fix
    
    
    STATUS

    Microsoft has confirmed this to be a problem in Windows NT version 4.0. A supported fix is now available, but is not fully regression-tested and should be applied only to systems experiencing this specific problem. Unless you are severely impacted by this specific problem, Microsoft recommends that you wait for the service pack release containing this fix. Contact Microsoft Technical Support for more information on the availability of this fix.


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KBCategory: kb3rdparty
KBSubcategory: ntdriver
Additional reference words: prodnt vdd dongle 4.00