Troubleshooting FAQ

1. Processor Problems?

The first thing you should check is that you have downloaded the correct program for your particular device. There are three different types of processor to be found on Pocket PC's (see the Processor Guide); it's important to make sure that you download a program that is compatible with your device's processor.

2. Invalid format?

If you're trying to install the program on your regular PC and you receive an error message stating that the program is an invalid format and that Windows cannot run it, then the chances are that it's the actual program rather than an installer. As such, you should copy it across to your Pocket PC and run the program from there.

Likewise, if you're trying to run a program on your Pocket PC and it stubbornly refuses to work, try copying it back to your regular PC as it may be an install program.

3. Blank screen?

If the game appears to run, but all you can see is a blank screen, then the most likely cause is that you need to install the latest version of GAPI. Copy across the appropriate gx.dll to your device's \Windows folder, and hopefully the game should now display correctly.

4. Forgotten the memory?

Some games, especially graphics-intensive ones, are memory-hungry. You should check the readme file, FAQ, or manual to see if a minimum amount of memory is needed to run the game.

Whether an amount is mentioned or not, try increasing your device's Program Memory. To do this, tap Start, Settings. Select the System tab, and tap Memory.

This will bring up a display indicating available storage and program memory. To increase the amount of program memory, drag the slider to the right. You may need to do this more than once to increase the amount of program memory sufficiently to allow the game to run.

If the amount of program memory won't increase beyond a certain point, then the chances are that you need to free up some storage memory. The only way to do this is by uninstalling programs no longer needed, or deleting unwanted files - please be careful when doing this!

5. Need more help?

If the game still refuses to work, there are several options open to you aside from contacting the developer. The discussion boards at BrightHand tend to be populated by friendly and knowledgeable people; likewise, a post to the Pocket PC newsgroup will nearly always be answered. Alternatively, you're always welcome to send me a mail.