The History and Features of Windows 98 Thai Edition: A Guide for Nostalgic and Curious Users
Windows 98 Thai Edition: A Review of the First Thai Version of Windows
Windows 98 is one of the most popular and successful operating systems developed by Microsoft. It was released in 1998 as an upgrade to Windows 95, and it introduced many new features and improvements, such as better performance, Internet integration, USB support, and more. However, Windows 98 was not available in all languages and regions, and some users had to wait for localized versions to be released.
Windows 98 Thai Edition
One of the countries that had to wait for a localized version of Windows 98 was Thailand. Thailand is a Southeast Asian country with a population of about 70 million people, and a rich and diverse culture and history. Thailand has its own official language, which is Thai, and its own writing system, which is based on an alphabet with 44 consonants and 15 vowels. Thai is a tonal language, which means that the pitch of the voice affects the meaning of words. Thai is also written from left to right, but without spaces between words.
Because of these characteristics, Thai is not an easy language to support on computers, especially on operating systems that were designed for English or other Latin-based languages. Therefore, Thai users had to rely on third-party software or hardware solutions to use their computers in their native language. These solutions were often expensive, unreliable, or incompatible with some applications or devices.
That is why Microsoft decided to create a special version of Windows 98 for Thailand, which was called Windows 98 Thai Edition. This version was released on October 31st, 1998, and it was the first official version of Windows that supported the Thai language natively. Windows 98 Thai Edition was not just a translation of the original Windows 98, but a customized version that included many features and benefits specifically designed for Thai users.
In this article, we will review Windows 98 Thai Edition in detail, and we will discuss its installation, usage, performance, and troubleshooting. We will also answer some frequently asked questions about this version of Windows. If you are interested in learning more about Windows 98 Thai Edition, or if you are a nostalgic user who wants to relive the experience of using this operating system, then keep reading!
Introduction
What is Windows 98 Thai Edition?
Windows 98 Thai Edition is a version of Windows 98 that was released by Microsoft for Thailand in 1998. It is based on Windows 98 Second Edition (SE), which was an updated version of Windows 98 that fixed some bugs and added some enhancements. However, Windows 98 Thai Edition also has some unique features that make it different from other versions of Windows 98.
The most obvious difference is that Windows 98 Thai Edition supports the Thai language natively. This means that the user interface, menus, dialogs, messages, help files, documentation, and other elements are translated into Thai. Moreover, Windows 98 Thai Edition also supports the Thai writing system natively. This means that the user can type in Thai using the keyboard or an on-screen keyboard (OSK), and that the text is displayed correctly on the screen with proper fonts and alignment.
Another difference is that Windows 98 Thai Edition includes some applications and utilities that are specific for Thailand or for the Thai language. For example, it includes a calendar application that shows the Thai lunar calendar, which is based on the Buddhist era and the phases of the moon. It also includes a dictionary application that allows the user to look up words in Thai or English, and a speech recognition application that enables the user to control the computer by voice commands in Thai. Additionally, Windows 98 Thai Edition comes with some pre-installed software that is popular or useful for Thai users, such as Microsoft Office 97 Thai Edition, Internet Explorer 5, Outlook Express, Windows Media Player, and more. Windows 98 Thai Edition is compatible with most hardware and software that work with Windows 98 SE. However, some devices or applications may require specific drivers or patches to work properly with the Thai language support. Windows 98 Thai Edition also supports dual-booting with other versions of Windows or other operating systems, such as Linux or DOS. This allows the user to choose which operating system to use at startup, depending on their needs or preferences.
Why was Windows 98 Thai Edition created?
Windows 98 Thai Edition was created as part of Microsoft's efforts to expand its market share and reach new customers in emerging markets. Microsoft recognized that Thailand was a potential market for its products, as it had a large and growing population, a developing economy, and a high demand for information technology. However, Microsoft also realized that it had to overcome some challenges and barriers to enter this market successfully.
One of the main challenges was the language barrier. As mentioned before, Thai is not an easy language to support on computers, and most Thai users had to rely on third-party solutions to use their computers in their native language. These solutions were often expensive, unreliable, or incompatible with some applications or devices. Moreover, they did not provide a consistent or user-friendly experience for the users, as they had to switch between different programs or settings to use different languages. This made using computers frustrating and confusing for many Thai users, and discouraged them from adopting new technologies or learning new skills.
Another challenge was the cultural barrier. Microsoft understood that it had to respect and adapt to the local culture and preferences of its customers, and not impose its own standards or values. For example, Microsoft had to consider the religious and historical significance of the Thai lunar calendar, which is widely used in Thailand for festivals, ceremonies, and astrology. Microsoft also had to consider the social and educational context of its customers, and provide them with relevant and appropriate content and services. For instance, Microsoft had to offer localized versions of its online services, such as MSN or Hotmail, that catered to the needs and interests of Thai users.
Therefore, Microsoft decided to create a special version of Windows 98 for Thailand, which was Windows 98 Thai Edition. This version was not just a translation of the original Windows 98, but a customized version that included many features and benefits specifically designed for Thai users. By creating Windows 98 Thai Edition, Microsoft aimed to achieve several goals:
To provide a high-quality and reliable operating system that supported the Thai language natively.
To offer a consistent and user-friendly experience for Thai users across different applications and devices.
To respect and adapt to the local culture and preferences of Thai customers.
To enable Thai users to access and use the latest technologies and services from Microsoft and other providers.
To empower Thai users to learn new skills and improve their productivity and creativity.
To increase its market share and customer loyalty in Thailand.
What are the features and benefits of Windows 98 Thai Edition?
Windows 98 Thai Edition has many features and benefits that make it a great operating system for Thai users. Some of these features and benefits are:
Thai language support: Windows 98 Thai Edition supports the Thai language natively, which means that the user interface, menus, dialogs, messages, help files, documentation, and other elements are translated into Thai. Moreover, Windows 98 Thai Edition also supports the Thai writing system natively, which means that the user can type in Thai using the keyboard or an on-screen keyboard (OSK), and that the text is displayed correctly on the screen with proper fonts and alignment.
Thai applications and utilities: Windows 98 Thai Edition includes some applications and utilities that are specific for Thailand or for the Thai language. For example, it includes a calendar application that shows the Thai lunar calendar, a dictionary application that allows the user to look up words in Thai or English, and a speech recognition application that enables the user to control the computer by voice commands in Thai. Additionally, Windows 98 Thai Edition comes with some pre-installed software that is popular or useful for Thai users, such as Microsoft Office 97 Thai Edition, Internet Explorer 5, Outlook Express, Windows Media Player, and more.
Thai online services: Windows 98 Thai Edition also provides access to some online services that are localized for Thailand or for the Thai language. For example, it includes MSN Thailand, which is a portal that offers news, entertainment, sports, lifestyle, and other content and services for Thai users. It also includes Hotmail Thailand, which is a free email service that supports the Thai language and offers 5 MB of storage space. Moreover, Windows 98 Thai Edition also supports other online services that are available globally, such as Windows Update, which allows the user to download and install the latest updates and patches for Windows 98.
Compatibility and performance: Windows 98 Thai Edition is compatible with most hardware and software that work with Windows 98 SE. However, some devices or applications may require specific drivers or patches to work properly with the Thai language support. Windows 98 Thai Edition also supports dual-booting with other versions of Windows or other operating systems, such as Linux or DOS. This allows the user to choose which operating system to use at startup, depending on their needs or preferences. Windows 98 Thai Edition also offers better performance than Windows 95 or Windows 3.1, as it has improved memory management, disk caching, multitasking, and stability.
Ease of use and learning: Windows 98 Thai Edition is easy to use and learn for Thai users, as it provides a consistent and user-friendly experience across different applications and devices. The user can navigate the operating system using the mouse, the keyboard, or voice commands. The user can also customize the appearance and behavior of the operating system according to their preferences. For example, they can change the wallpaper, the colors, the fonts, the sounds, and the icons. They can also add or remove programs, shortcuts, folders, or files from the desktop or the start menu. Moreover, Windows 98 Thai Edition also provides help and support for the user in case they encounter any problems or difficulties. The user can access the help files, the documentation, the online support center, or the phone support service in Thai.
Installation and Setup
How to prepare for installing Windows 98 Thai Edition?
Before installing Windows 98 Thai Edition on your computer, you need to make sure that your computer meets the minimum system requirements for running this operating system. These requirements are:
A personal computer with a 486DX/66 MHz or higher processor (Pentium processor recommended).
16 MB of memory (24 MB recommended).
A typical upgrade from Windows 95 requires approximately 195 MB of free hard disk space; a typical new installation requires approximately 225 MB of free hard disk space.
A CD-ROM drive.
A VGA or higher resolution monitor.
A Microsoft mouse or compatible pointing device.
A sound card and speakers or headphones.
A modem (optional).
If your computer meets these requirements, you can proceed to install Windows 98 Thai Edition on your computer. However, before you do that, you should also do some preparations to ensure a smooth and successful installation process. These preparations include:
Backing up your important data and files on another storage device or media.
Scanning your computer for viruses and malware using an antivirus program.
Uninstalling any unnecessary or incompatible programs or drivers from your computer.
Disconnecting any external devices or peripherals from your computer (except for the mouse, keyboard, monitor, CD-ROM drive).
Inserting the Windows 98 Thai Edition CD-ROM into your CD-ROM drive.
How to format the hard disk and start the installation process?
After you have prepared your computer for installing Windows 98 Thai Edition, you need to format the hard disk and start the installation process. Formatting the hard disk means erasing all the data and files on the disk and preparing it for a new operating system. This is necessary if you want to install Windows 98 Thai Edition on a new or empty hard disk, or if you want to replace or remove an existing operating system on your hard disk. However, if you want to keep your existing operating system and install Windows 98 Thai Edition as a second operating system, you do not need to format the hard disk, but you need to create a separate partition for Windows 98 Thai Edition. To format the hard disk and start the installation process, follow these steps:
Restart your computer and press F8 when you see the "Starting Windows 98" message on the screen. This will bring up the Windows 98 Startup Menu.
Select "Start computer with CD-ROM support" and press Enter. This will load the CD-ROM drivers and allow you to access the Windows 98 Thai Edition CD-ROM.
At the command prompt, type "format c:" and press Enter. This will format the C: drive, which is usually the primary partition of your hard disk. You will see a warning message that says "WARNING, ALL DATA ON NON-REMOVABLE DISK DRIVE C: WILL BE LOST! Proceed with Format (Y/N)?" Type "Y" and press Enter to confirm. The formatting process will begin and may take several minutes.
When the formatting process is complete, you will see a message that says "Format complete." You will also be asked to enter a volume label for the C: drive. You can enter any name you want, or just press Enter to leave it blank.
At the command prompt, type "D:" and press Enter. This will change the current drive to D:, which is usually the CD-ROM drive. If your CD-ROM drive has a different letter, use that letter instead.
At the command prompt, type "setup" and press Enter. This will start the Windows 98 Thai Edition Setup program, which will guide you through the installation process.
How to enter the CD-Key and configure the settings?
After you start the Windows 98 Thai Edition Setup program, you will see a welcome screen that introduces you to Windows 98 Thai Edition and its features. You will also see a button that says "Continue". Click on this button to proceed with the installation process.
The next screen will ask you to enter the CD-Key for Windows 98 Thai Edition. The CD-Key is a 25-digit code that is printed on the back of the CD-ROM case or on a sticker inside the CD-ROM package. The CD-Key is required to verify that you have a legitimate copy of Windows 98 Thai Edition and to prevent piracy. Enter the CD-Key in the boxes provided and click on "Next".
The next screen will ask you to choose between two types of installation: Typical or Custom. The Typical installation is recommended for most users, as it installs the most common components and settings for Windows 98 Thai Edition. The Custom installation allows you to choose which components and settings you want to install or change for Windows 98 Thai Edition. You can also use this option if you want to install Windows 98 Thai Edition on a different partition or folder than the default one. Choose the type of installation that suits your needs and click on "Next".
The next screen will ask you to enter your name and organization (optional). These information will be used to personalize your copy of Windows 98 Thai Edition and to register it with Microsoft (optional). Enter your name and organization in the boxes provided and click on "Next".
The next screen will ask you to select your region and language settings. These settings will affect how Windows 98 Thai Edition displays dates, times, numbers, currencies, and other formats. By default, these settings are set to Thailand and Thai, but you can change them if you want. Click on "Next" when you are done.
The next screen will ask you to identify your computer on a network (optional). If your computer is connected to a network, such as a home network or an office network, you can enter a name for your computer and a name for your workgroup or domain. These names will help other computers on the network recognize your computer and share resources with it. If your computer is not connected to a network, or if you are not sure about these settings, you can skip this step by clicking on "Next".
The next screen will show you a summary of the settings that you have chosen for installing Windows 98 Thai Edition. You can review these settings and make any changes if necessary by clicking on "Back". If you are satisfied with these settings, click on "Next" to start the installation process. The installation process may take several minutes, depending on the speed of your computer and the type of installation that you have chosen. During the installation process, you will see a progress bar and some messages that inform you about the status of the installation. You may also see some prompts or dialogs that ask you to confirm some actions or enter some information. Follow the instructions on the screen and respond to these prompts or dialogs as needed.
When the installation process is complete, you will see a message that says "Windows 98 Thai Edition has been successfully installed on your computer." You will also see a button that says "Finish". Click on this button to restart your computer and complete the installation process. After your computer restarts, you will see the Windows 98 Thai Edition logo and a welcome screen that congratulates you on installing Windows 98 Thai Edition. You will also see a button that says "OK". Click on this button to enter Windows 98 Thai Edition for the first time.
Usage and Performance
How to use the Thai language support and input methods?
One of the main features of Windows 98 Thai Edition is that it supports the Thai language natively. This means that you can use your computer in Thai without any additional software or hardware solutions. You can also switch between Thai and other languages easily and quickly. To use the Thai language support and input methods, follow these steps:
To change the display language of Windows 98 Thai Edition, go to Start > Settings > Control Panel > Regional Settings. In the Regional Settings tab, select "Thai" from the drop-down menu under "Your locale (location)". Click on "Apply" and then "OK". You may need to restart your computer for the changes to take effect.
To change the keyboard layout of Windows 98 Thai Edition, go to Start > Settings > Control Panel > Keyboard. In the Language tab, click on "Add" and select "Thai" from the list of languages. Click on "OK" and then "Apply". You can also set a hotkey to switch between different keyboard layouts by clicking on "Key Settings". For example, you can set Alt+Shift as a hotkey to switch between English and Thai keyboard layouts.
To type in Thai using the keyboard, press Caps Lock to activate the Thai mode. You will see a small icon on the taskbar that shows "TH" when you are in Thai mode. You can then use the ke