Installing CS3 LOCKED, CS3 is a dead product

[Guest]

Hello,

I recently picked up a new laptop, running Windows 10, and I am trying to install my CS3 program from the disc. Everytime I try to install it, I get the following error message: "the file 'adobepdf.dll' on windows vista cd-rom is needed."

I have looked online for solutions, and all I can seem to find are solutions to Windows Vista and 7, I need a solution for Windows 10. Most other online help seems to direct me to download something from their unrecognized site.

Please help!

Thank you,

Jason

[John T Smith · Accepted solution]

First, that Vista message is an error for Win10

-Says Vista, but is not https://forums.adobe.com/thread/1836232

Second, CS3 is FAR too old to be compatible with Win10

An idea that MAY work to install and/or run old programs in Windows 10... works for some, not for others

-http://www.tenforums.com/tutorials/15523-compatibility-mode-settings-apps-change-windows-10-a.html

-or Run as Administrator http://forums.adobe.com/thread/969395 to assign FULL permissions may help... says Encore, but sometimes required for ALL Adobe programs (this is NOT the same as using an Administrator account)

[craigs37070119]

You're wrong.

[alexanderbg78]

You can use adobepdf.dll at this location C:\Program Files (x86)\Adobe\Acrobat 8.0\Acrobat\Xtras\AdobePDF\AMD64\ADOBEPDF.DLL

[Charles_Mc]

For some reason some other answer was marked as the correct answer even though locating the file in the 'AMD64' folder and mentioned by alexanderbg78 is the answer that actually worked and got the installation to complete.  While it is technically correct to point out that CS3 is very long in the tooth, the OP did not ask for opinions on if it should be done but rather how it can be done.

[Jeff Arola]

Actually adobe has a KB on this:

https://helpx.adobe.com/creative-suite/kb/error-file-adobepdf-dll-needed.html

[rene_jr2577859]

This info. is correct... That work for me. 

[John T Smith]

The CS3 activation server has been removed... CS3 may not be activated, it is a dead product