PIF Optional Parameters and Different Modes in Windows (71346)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft Windows 3.0
  • Microsoft Windows 3.0a
  • Microsoft Windows 3.1
  • Microsoft Windows 3.11
This article was previously published under Q71346

SUMMARY

When you are in 386 enhanced mode, entries in the Optional Parameters field of a PIF do not appear in the same PIF when viewed in real (Windows 3.0 only) or standard mode. This is by design.

To have an optional parameter available in all three modes, do the following:

  1. Set up the PIF as you normally would.
  2. From the Mode menu, choose the mode not currently checked.
  3. Choose OK to confirm the mode setting.
  4. Enter the optional parameters.

MORE INFORMATION

There are two Optional Parameters fields in a PIF, one for real and standard mode and one for enhanced mode. This is by design. It allows different parameters to be passed to an MS-DOS application to match the memory management of Windows.

For example, let's say you have an MS-DOS application that uses expanded memory. 386 enhanced mode Windows can provide expanded memory to MS-DOS applications. Standard mode Windows cannot provide expanded memory. The Optional Parameters for the DOS application can be set to take advantage of expanded memory when run in enhanced mode, and to optimize use of conventional memory when run in standard mode.

Steps to Reproduce Problem

  1. Run Windows in enhanced mode.
  2. Open the PIF editor in the Accessories group.
  3. Enter COMMAND.COM in the Program Filename box and then enter "test" for the Optional Parameters.
  4. From the File menu, choose Save As and name the file "TEST.PIF."
  5. From the Mode menu, choose Standard.
  6. Choose OK to confirm the mode setting.
The Optional Parameters field will now be blank.
Modification Type:MinorLast Reviewed:7/7/2005
Keywords:KB71346
©2004 Microsoft Corporation. All rights reserved.