TECHNICAL HELP FAQ [done]

[pyrothijs]

This part of the FAQ is meant to help with the most common technical issues. We give the standard answers we would give you on the forum, so you can try the solutions yourself without having to wait for help. This FAQ will not distinguish between EM3 and EM4/911FR/EM4D because most of the technical stuff depends on your own computer, not on the version of the game you have. In some specific cases a distinction has to be made, it will be clearly presented in the table of contents and the question if that's the case.

Off course technical issues are pretty specific issues, so it is possible that the standard answers will not work for you. In that case feel free to ask for help on the forum. While doing that please let us know which solutions from the FAQ you have already tried so we won't have to look into those again.

Also please make sure to upload a DXDIAG file and a logfile with each help request. Without these files we can't help you and your request will not be answered!

This FAQ will consist of the following subjects:

*Usefull files:

-DXDIAG file

-Logfile

-configuration file (config file or cfg).

-how to upload these files using the upload function

*Patch 1.3 for the EM3 version

-finding/downloading the patch (with NOTE about the versions you should install patches for)

-installing the patch

-installing older patches (1.1 and 1.2)

*Patch 1.3 for the EM4 version

-finding/downloading the patch (with NOTE about the versions you should install patches for)

-installing the patch

-installing older patches (1.1 and 1.2)

*Crash to desktop

-see if you meet the minimum system requirements.

-updating your graphic drivers

-removing un-used codecs (with NOTE about codec finder)

-running without anti-virus/firewall

-increasing your virtual memory

-lowering the graphics settings

-setting the configuration file to read only

-setting the screen mode

-replacing the configuration file

-running on one core (DUAL core PC's only!)

-auto reparing files (Emergency 4, 911 First Responders and Emergency 4 Deluxe only)

-uninstalling the game/mods (with NOTE about mod bugs)

*Modinstaller & mods

-modinstaller missing

-modinstaller not correctly installed

-how to install a mod

-mod package is corrupted

-game freezes while loading mod

-loading freeplay takes very long

*Game play is lagging

-see if you meet the minimum system requirements.

-updating your graphic drivers

-increasing your virtual memory

-lowering the graphics settings

-running on one core (DUAL core PC's only!)

-disable your internet connection

*Multiplayer/online game (not possible in EM3)

-opening correct ports

-no servers online

-not able to host (with NOTE about HAMACHI)

-incorrect files error

© 2008 www.emergency-planet.com and related sites.

Nothing from this FAQ may be cited, reproduced or distributed in any way by other sites (except www.emergency-planet.com and related sites) without written permission of the author and www.emergency-planet.com.

[pyrothijs]

Usefull files

I need to upload a DXDIAG file, where can I find it?

You need to order the PC to create a DXDIAG file. You can do that in the following manner:

1: Press start

2: click Run (for the Dutch members: uitvoeren), a text box will appear

3: type 'DXDIAG' (without ' ' ) and press enter. The PC will now run a self test of its systems, it should only take a couple of minutes.

4: When the test is done click save all data (bottom of the pop up screen) and save the result.

5: Now UPLOAD the file with your help request. If you don't know how to upload, see below. DO NOT copy and paste all the information in your post, this would create an immense post with lots of space between the results. It is very hard to read through such a document which means it could be the answer to your question is missed.

I need to upload a logfile, where can I find it?

The logfile can be found in the main folder of EM3/EM4. By default this folder is loctaed at

C:\program files\[Name of the game publisher]\Emergency 3 or;

C:\program files\[Name of the game publisher]\Emergency 4 or;

C:\program files\[Name of the game publisher]\911 first responders or;

C:\program files\[Name of the game publisher]\Emergency 4 Deluxe

depending on the version of the game you bought.

The file is called logfile.txt

Rember to UPLOAD the logfile with your help request. If you don't know how to upload, see below. DO NOT copy and paste all the information in your post, this would create an immense post with lots of space between the results. It is very hard to read through such a document which means it could be the answer to your question is missed.

I need to find my configuration file, where can I find it?

The configuration file can be found in the EM3 or EM4 main folder. By default this folder is located at

C:\program files\[Name of the game publisher]\Emergency 3 or;

C:\program files\[Name of the game publisher]\Emergency 4 or;

C:\program files\[Name of the game publisher]\911 first responders or;

C:\program files\[Name of the game publisher]\Emergency 4 Deluxe

depending on the version of the game you bought.

The file is called em3.cfg (for Emergency 3), or em4.cfg (for Emergency 4), or [need to check the name for 911 FR, but the extension of the file still is .cfg], or em4deluxe.cfg (for Emergency 4 Deluxe).

You can also dowload a configuration file from our Download database. You can find the file for Em3 here (click). The files for EM4/911 FR/EM4D can be found here (click).

How do I upload a document?

When you write a post you can use the forums upload function to attach files to the post. You can find the upload function directly beneath the white box where you type you text. It's called attachments (see screenshot).

There are two ways of attaching a file:

1A: Enter the URL of a file that is al ready on the internet. After filling in the URL press UPLOAD (#2)

1B: Search for the file on your computer and select it with the browse function. After selecting the right file press UPLOAD (#2)

For more information about the uploadfucntion see the FORUM FAQ.

Edited March 5, 2009 by pyrothijs

[pyrothijs]

Patch 1.3 for Emergency 3

Where can I find patch 1.3 (also called patch 3) for Emergency 3?

There are two versions of patch 1.3. There is a German version, that can be found here (click). There is also a UK version, that can be found here (click).

NOTE: you only need to install patches when you have one of these versions. If you have the US version, you do not need to install patches, in fact installing patches could corrupt the game! You can check if you have the US version or the UK version by following these steps:

1: Install Emergency 3.

2: Go to start --> programs --> [publishers name] --> Emergency 3

3: If you have the US version you should be able to see a program called 'Emergency 3 Editor' and a program called 'Emergency 3 ModInstaller' in the drop down menu.

If you have the UK version one or both of these programs are missing.

How do I install Patch 1.3 for Emergency 3?

When you have downloaded the patch for the right version (see above), you have to unzipp/unrar the files. At least two file folders (SETUP & TNTfix) and a read me will appear. If you downloaded the UK version a third file folder will also appear (CRACK). Open the read me with notepad and minimize it so that you can read the instructions while you are installing the patch.

1:Now open the file folder called TNTfix and run the TNT-FIX.reg file, if you are asked to confirm the action click yes. Your computers registry will now be cleared (don't worry that's a good thing).

2: Now open the folder called SETUP and run the SETUP.exe file. NOTE: if this file won't run try running SETUP2.exe. This will install the German patch. So if you downloaded the German patch you're done after this has been installed. If you downloaded the UK version: don't worry this is supposed to happen

3: You only have to follow these steps if you downloaded the UK version! Inside the CRACK folder there are two files (EM3.exe and OPTGRAPH.dll) copy both files and paste them in the EM3 main folder (by default this is C:\program files\[Name of the game publisher]\Emergency 3).

4: Now open the file EM3.cfg with notepad and search for the following line of text:

<var name="s_language" value="de" /> (press CTRL+F to find it faster).

When you've found it replace "de" by "en" so the line will look like this: <var name="s_language" value="en" />

5: Save the file and you're done. The english patch has been installed.

Do I need to install patches 1.1 and/or 1.2 too?

No you don't. Patch 1.3 includes patch 1.1 an 1.2 so you do not have to install those patches if you have patch 1.3 installed.

Edited March 5, 2009 by pyrothijs

[pyrothijs]

Patch 1.3 for Emergency 4

Where can I find patch 1.3 (also called patch 3) for Emergency 4?

There are two versions of patch 1.3. There is a German version which can be found here (click). And there is a French version that can be found here (click).

NOTE: you only need to install patches when you have one of these versions. If you have the US version, you do not need to install patches, in fact installing patches could corrupt the game! So if you have Emergency 4 in a different language or if you have 911 first responders or Emergency 4 Deluxe you do not need to install these patches!

How do I install patch 1.3 for Emergency 4?

When you have downloaded the patch for the right version (see above), you have to unzipp/unrar the files. When you have unzipped the files one folder will appear with two files in it (a read me and a file with the extension .exe).

Now doubleclick the file with the extension .exe (either Emergency4_Patch1.3DE.exe or Emergency4_Patch1.3FR.exe) and the patch will auto-install itself, how's that for comfort!

Do I need to install patches 1.1 and/or 1.2 too?

No you don't. Patch 1.3 includes patch 1.1 an 1.2 so you do not have to install those patches if you have patch 1.3 installed.

Edited March 5, 2009 by pyrothijs

[pyrothijs]

Crash to desktop

A crash to desktop (or CTD) means the game shuts down on it's own (so you haven't pressed quit). You will return to the desktop and will have to restart the game if you want to play the game. Since there are a lot of causes for the crashes to desktop, there are also a lot of possible solutions. We will describe the solutions that work best in this topic. If possible we will also add the text from the logfile or DXDIAG file indicating what the problem is. That way you can self diagnose the problem and find a solution for it. If all the solutions do not help, then feel free to ask for help on the technical help sections of the forum.

Solution 1: check to see if you meet the system requirements

You can't run the game if you do not match the system requirements. It is therefore vital you make sure that your PC fits the system requirements.

For EM3 the minimum requirements are:

-1.2 GHz processor

-256 MB RAM

-Microsoft Windows XP or 2000 (but it is compattible with Vista)

-Direct X 9 compattible sound card and video card

-Geforce 2 or similiar chip set

-Direct X 9 or higer installed

-1 GB free space on the hard disk

-Original CD must be inserted while playing

-Mouse

For EM4/911 FR the minimum requirements are:

-1.7 Ghz processor

-512 MB RAM

-Operating system windows 2000 or XP (but it is compattible with Vista)

-Direct X 9 compattible sound and video card

-Direct X 9.0C installed (is included on the CD)

-Emergency 4 supports the following types of graphic cards: GeForce 3 / GeForce 4200, 4400, 4600, 4800 / GeForce 5xxx and all higher versions / ATI 9500, 9600, 9700, 9800 / ATI X700 and all higher versions

-1 GB free hard disk space

-Original CD must be inserted while playing

-Mouse

-IDSN or DSL for playing multiplayer mode (DSL for hosting a game)

If your PC or laptop does not fit the system requirements you have two options: customize your current PC/laptop to fit the system requirements (e.g. adding an external hard drive with at least 1 GB free disk space) or buy a new PC/laptop that does fit the system requirements.

We recommend always checking if your PC or laptop fits the system requirements before buying or installing a game.

Solution 2: updating your graphic drivers

After posting your DXDIAG file you can open it like any attachment. In the beginning of the file you will see these lines of text about your graphic driver.

--- Display Devices --- Card name: ATI Radeon HD 4800 Series Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc. Chip type: ATI Radeon Graphics Processor (0x9442) DAC type: Internal DAC(400MHz) Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_9442&SUBSYS_05021002&REV_00 Display Memory: 512.0 MB Current Mode: 1280 x 1024 (32 bit) (60Hz) Monitor: Plug and Play Monitor Monitor Max Res: 1600,1200 Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6844 (English) DDI Version: 9 (or higher) Driver Attributes: Final Retail Driver Date/Size: 7/31/2008 23:32:35,

The orange text part displays the last date on which you updated or installed your video drivers. The blue text part lists your drivers version. If you updated your graphic drivers more then 6 months ago, it might be worth checking for an update. You can find driver updates on the website of the manufacturer. The manufacturer is mentioned in the green text part. You can usually find their website by googling their name, but just in case: you can find updates for NVidia drivers here and for ATI drivers here.

To find the updates you have to fill in your operating system (windows XP, Vista, etc.) and the name and series of the video card. You can find the card name in the red text part. Some websites also have a 'scan my pc' feature that can be used to determine the type of video card you have and automaticly searches updates for it.

We especially recommond updating your video drivers if you can find one of these lines of text in your logfile:

Please make sure you have the latest video drivers installed for your 3D card.

ERROR: dynlight.vsf Version 3.0.0.0 or higher required!

Solution 3: uninstalling un-used codecs

Codecs are programs that are able to compress and decompress digital audio and video files. Sometimes codec packs can interfere with the acces to the game folders. The game can't open certain files and that causes it to crash. The solution would be to update or to delete the codec packs.

Codec packs that are known to cause a crash to desktop are: K-Lite codec pack, Samsung PC studio, Nokia PC software, Magixx, Sony pc guide, ffdshow, Halli Media Splitter.

If you encounter these lines of text in your logfile (alone or in combination with a driver error), you probably have a codec problem:

 ?BLFileSystem::Open("????",BLFM_READ): Could not open

?UIPage: Could not load 'base:UI/Game/VehicleBrowser/VehicleBrowser.xml'

If you can't seem to find the codec responsible for the crash, you can use a codec detective like Sherlock (click and scroll down for download) to find out which codecs cause problems on your PC.

NOTE: emergency-planet.com does NOT except ANY responisbility for the use of exterior programs or the removal of codec pakcs. Please make sure you read the warranty and user manual for Sherlock if you want to use it.

Solution 4: running without anti-virus or firewall

Because Emergency 4 enables online multiplayer games, some anti-vrus programs or firewalls need to 'give permission' to the game to start or to connect to the internet. This can also lead to the anti-virus program or firewall to block off acces to certain files. The best way to see if this is causing the problem is simply trying it. Just disable your anti-virus or firewall and launch te game. If it runs without any problems the anti-virus or firewall was the cause of the crash.

A solution could be to update your anti-virus or firewall. Usually manufacturers recieve lots of complaints and will create a fix for those problems.

Another option could be to set the anti-virus or firewall to 'allow' the program to connect to the internet. Most firewalls have a 'program controll option' that regulate which programs are allowed to connect to the web. If you add Emergency4.exe to that list you probably won't have anymore problems.

We especially recommend this solution if you have ZoneAlarm firewall and you keep seeing a black screen after startup. That is usually caused by ZoneAlarm asking permission to allow the game to acces the internet. The problem is that ZoneAlarm uses a desktop pop up for this, you can't see that pop up after the game is started. Thus you remain staring at a black screen.

NOTE: we strongly recommend you do not go online while your anti-virus and/or firewall is disabeld.

Solution 5: increasing your virtual memory

Virtual memory is an addition to your computers RAM memory. It makes sure that enough memory is available when extra memory is needed (for example to run games). If it is set on a very low number, it is possible your PC has trouble keeping up with the game. This causing the game to lag and eventually crash.

You can increase your virtual memory like this: go to the configuration screen --> open the sytem menu --> click the advanced tab --> click settings (in the performance section). Now you are in the settings tab. Click the advanced tab, you wil see the virtual memory settings at the bottom of this tab. You can alter the settings by pressing the button and increasing the maximum value of the virtual memory.

We recommond this solution if your game lags a lot and/or if it crashes right after big events like earthquakes, gas explosions etc.

Solution 6: lowering the graphic settings

If your game lags a lot or if you have problems with parts of the map not appearing on the screen correctly you could lower your graphic settings to stress your pc a little less, making the game run smoother. You can adjust the options like this:

For EM3: start EM3, in the main menu select the options button. Now select the graphics tab. Set the detail level to 'low' and disable all shadows. Now press the OK button. You will have to restart the game before the changes have any effect.

For EM4(D)/911 FR: start the game, in the main menu select the options button. Now select the graphics tab, set both detail levels to 'low' and disable all shadows. Press the OK button.

Solution 7: setting the configuration file to read only

Every time you start your game your logfile will be cleared. If you have a very big logfile or if your logfile contains some errors (e.g. because of a crash last time you played) it could make your game crash. If you right click your logfile and select propreties you can set your logfile to "read only", this will prevent it from clearing the logfile and rewriting it while playing the game. Since the writing of the logfile also takes up memory, it could prevent your game from crashing.

NOTE: if you ant to ask for help on the forum, upload your logfile BEFORE you set it to read only.

Solution 8: setting the screen mode

If you encounter this error message in your logfile

ChangeScreenMode(): VERR_NOSCREENMODE - Screen mode could not be set

you need to open your configuration file with notepad. You need to look (CTRL+F) for the values <var name="r_xres" value="..." /> and <var name="r_yres" value="..." />

On the place of the dots ("...") you need to fill in your screen resolution. In the standard configuration file the xres value is 1024 and the yres value is 768. You can also try to download a configuration file from our site (see below).

Solution 9: replacing the configuration file

In some cases people who edited their game accidently replaced something in their configuration file or changed another setting that doesn't work with the contents of their configuration file. The easiest option to fix this problem is to replace the configuration file.

We have the original versions of the configuration file stored in our download center, just in case.

You can find the file for EM3 here (click). The files for EM4/911 FR/EM4 D can be found here (click).

We especially recommend this option if you recieve the error that your configuration file is corrupted or if your logfile states that the screen settings could not be set.

Solution 10: running on one core (DUAL core PC's only!)

In some cases people who experimented with their computer settings found that the game is much more stable when it runs on one core. We cannot exactly explain why this seems to work, but if it works for you it might be worth to try.

Off course this solution can only be used when your computer has multiple cores. If your unsure wether or not your computer is a DUAL CORE, take a look in the DXDIAG file. If you can find the words dual core with the search function, you have a dual core.

You can make the game run on one core in the following way: start the game. After the game has started and you see the main menu press CTRL+ALT+DELETE. You will see the taskmanager screen. Right click EM4.exe and select the option 'run on one core'. Now close the taskmanager and return to the game.

NOTE: the only downside is that you will have to adapt the core settings each time you start the game.

Check out this topic if you need a more detailed manual on how to set your game to run on one core.

Solution 11: auto reparing files (Emergency 4, 911 First Responders and Emergency 4 Deluxe only)

EM4(D) and 911: FR contain an autorepair function for damaged files. If everything else failed it's always worth a shot. This function basicly checks if the files on your computer are the same as the original files on the disk and replaces them if they're not the same.

Insert the CD, open the CD-drive folder and select the setup.exe file. Run this program. The setup screen will now start, you have three options: modify, repair and remove. Choose repair and click next. The game will replace the damaged files and lets you know when it's done. Click finish and restart your computer.

I'm not sure if digital downloads include this function. Maybe some of you who have a digital download can enlighten me.

NOTE: when you choose this option you will also loose all the modifications you made to the game, since it works basicly like a reinstall of the game.

Solution 12: uninstalling the game/mods

If non of these solutions worked you can always try to reinstall the game or some mods. Some mods or adjustments you made yourself could have had greater consequences then you initially thought. The only way to resolve that is to start all over again.

If the problem occurs with only one mod, you can choose to uninstall that mod before doing anything else. DO NOT use the ModInstaller to uninstall or remove the modification. In some cases files will remain on your PC making it impossible to reinstall the mod and probably cause another crash. It's better to manually uninstall the mods. Go the the EM3/EM4 main folder, and open the mods folder. You will see all installed mods displayed as folders. Select the mod causing the problem and press DELETE, if the PC asks you to confirm the complete removal click yes. You can now download the mod again and install it.

NOTE: Although all mods are usually tested before someone releases them, it can still occur that mistakes aren't noticed and that the mod is thus released with bugs. Some of these bugs can cause the game to crash. The easiest way to find out if a crash is caused by a bug is to find a topic about that mod in a forum (this forum or the mods own forum) and check if there are any known bugs. Also if a crash is caused by the same thing over and over again (for example sending vehicles back to base), you can safely assume that this the cause of the crash. If other users of the mod have the same problem it is probably a bug. There is not a lot you can do about these bugs unless you know what causes them. Modders will try to find out and remove the bug by adapting scripts and other files.

If your problem occurs in the normal game or with multiple mods you can also try to uninstall the entire game. First uninstall all mods manually as described above. Next:

For EM3: go to start --> programs --> [publishers name] --> Emergency 3 and select Uninstall Emergency 3. If the game asks you to confirm the uninstall, click yes. The game will now be uninstalled. You will recieve a message after the game has been succesfully removed. Restart your computer, insert the EM3 disk and reinstall the game. Don't forget to install the patches if you have the German or UK version (see above).

For EM4(D)/911 FR: insert the CD, open the CD-drive folder and select the setup.exe file. Run this program. The setup screen will now start, you have three options modify, repair and remove. Select remove and click next. If you are asked if you're sure you want to remove the files, click yes. Setup will now remove the game and let you know when the uninstall has been succesfully completed, in that case click finish. Restart the computer and insert the CD again. Open the CD-drive folder and select the setup.exe file. Run this program. You will now be given the option to install the game, choose that option. If you have the German or French version of EM4 (so not 911:FR or EM4D), don't forget to install the patches.

If you do not have a CD but a digital download simply select the EM4 folder and remove it from your pc. DO MAKE SURE YOU PLACED THE DIGITAL DOWNLOAD FILE YOU NEED FOR THE REINSTALL IN ANOTHER FOLDER. Then reboot the computer. Now select the digital download and reinstall the game. If you have the German or French version of EM4 (so not deluxe), don't forget to install the patches.

Again I'm not sure if digital downloads also include the setup menu, maybe somone who has a download can contact me about that.

NOTE: if you are using a digital download (hopefully legal) please make sure before uninstalling that you still have the confirmation code required to install the game. WITHOUT THIS CODE YOU CANNOT REINSTALL THE GAME AND YOU NEED TO BUY A NEW COPY!

Edited January 8, 2010 by pyrothijs

[pyrothijs]

ModInstaller & Mods

Help, I can't find my ModInstaller

Normally you should find the modinstaller under

start --> programs --> [publishers name] --> Emergency 3 --> Emergency 3 ModInstaller (for EM3)

start --> programs --> [publishers name] --> Emergency 4 --> Emergency 4 ModInstaller (for EM4)

start --> programs --> [publishers name] --> 911 First responders --> 911 First responders ModInstaller (for 911: FR)

start --> programs --> [publishers name] --> Emergency 4 Deluxe --> Emergency 4 Deluxe ModInstaller (for EM4D)

You can also find the ModInstaller.exe program in the EM3/EM4(D)/911 FR main folder, double click it to start the ModInstaller. By the way when you want to install a mod you can also just double click the file with the extension .e3mod / .e4mod, the ModInstaller will then start and auto-install the mod.

I get the error message my ModInstaller isn't correctly installed, what can I do about it?

This usually happens with digital downloads. Some companies don't add the ModInstaller correctly, causing it to mallfunction. If this is the case, you can try these solutions.

For EM3:

You can try to install patch 1.3 if you have the German or UK version of EM3 (see above for install instructions). If that doesn't work you can try this solution. It was found by CrazyLion425 in this topic (click). NOTE: WRONGLY EXECUTING this solution can SERIOUSLY DAMAGE your computer, so make sure you stick to the manual. If you don't trust yourself with this, don't try it.

1) Go to Start --> Run, type 'regedit' (without ' ') and press enter.

2) Select 'HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE' and press the '+' button (to the left) to expand the list.

3) Now select 'SOFTWARE' and press the '+' button (to the left) to expand the list.

4) Right-click on 'SOFTWARE' and select New --> Key.

Enter the new key name: sixteen tons entertainment

5) Right-click on 'sixteen tons entertainment' and select New --> Key.

Enter the new key name: Emergency 3 US

6) Right-click on 'Emergency 3 US' and select New > String value.

Enter the new key name: Installdir

7) Right-click on the 'Installdir' string value and select Modify.

In the 'Value Data' field, enter the full path of your installation directory.

By default, this value is C:\Program Files\Strategy First\Emergency 3

Now, exit the registry editor by selecting the File menu and then clicking

on Exit. The Emergency 3 Mod Installer should now function correctly.

For EM4:

If you have the German or French version of EM4 (so not 911:FR or EM4D), you should install patch 1.3 in order to get the ModInstaller working. If that doesn't work you can try this:

1) Go to the EM4/911 FR/EM4 D main folder

2) check the files present there: there should be at least two folders, Data & Mods

3) If the Mods folders is missing (some companies don't include the folder because it's empty), you need to create one your self.

4) Go to File --> New --> folder

5) Name the folder 'Mods' (without ' '). The ModInstaller should work fine now.

How do I install a mod?

Download the file and save it in the Mods folder of EM3/EM4/911 FR/EM4D.

A downloaded mod is usually compressed into a smaller file ending on .zip or .rar. You need to decompress the files first. In the case of a .zip file you can use winzip, in the case of a .rar file you can use winrar. Simply select the file, right click and choose extract here.

When the mod file is unpacked (=decompressed) a file with the extension .e3mod or .e4mod will be visible. Double click that file and the ModInstaller will autoinstall the mod. Once it's done you will see the mod appear as a seperate folder in the Mods folder and the name of the mod will be added to the ModInstaller list.

You can play the mod by starting the game and choose 'modifications' in the main menu. Select the mod you want to play and press load.

I get the message "mod package is corrupted", what can I do?

There can be 2 causes for this problem:

1:You will have to redownload the mod package. Go to the download page, clear your browsers cache (for IE7: Tools --> delete browsing history --> delete files & delete history). Also make sure you accept all cookies from the download page. Now refresh the page and download the mod again. You should be able to unpack and install the mod as described above.

2: There is no "mods" folder in the EM4(D) or 911:FR main directory. If that's the case then you need to go to the main directory of the game using windows explorer and create that folder yourself (file --> new --> folder. Name it "mods" (without " ")). Now save the mod package in that folder, unzip/unrar it and install it as described above.

When I try to load a mod, the game freezes and it is not responding. How can I prevent this?

The game is supposed to freeze some time when the mod is loaded. Depending on your computer and the size of the mod, the time the screen freezes can be about 2 to 10 minutes. Once the mod is loaded you will return to the main menu.

It takes a long time to load a mod or a freeplay game, can I do something about that?

Besides making sure your pc is in tiptop shape there isn't much you can do. Make sure you have the latest videodrivers installed and that your hard drive has sufficient free disk space. Also make sure no programs (MSN, Internet explorer etc.) are running on the background.

Some mods just take a long time to load, especially the Winterberg Mod can take about 15 minutes (depending on your computer specs). It is because of all the changes and complex scripts added to those mods. So I'm sorry but you'll just have to wait some time.

Edited April 14, 2009 by pyrothijs

[pyrothijs]

Game play is lagging

Again there can be many causes for this problem. We will mention the solutions that work best. Some of the soultions are the same is in the crash to desktop part.

Solution 1: check to see if you meet the system requirements

You can't run the game if you do not match the system requirements. It is therefore vital you make sure that your PC fits the system requirements.

For EM3 the minimum requirements are:

-1.2 GHz processor

-256 MB RAM

-Microsoft Windows XP or 2000 (but it is compattible with Vista)

-Direct X 9 compattible sound card and video card

-Geforce 2 or similiar chip set

-Direct X 9 or higer installed

-1 GB free space on the hard disk

-Original CD must be inserted while playing

-Mouse

For EM4/911 FR the minimum requirements are:

-1.7 Ghz processor

-512 MB RAM

-Operating system windows 2000 or XP (but it is compattible with Vista)

-Direct X 9 compattible sound and video card

-Direct X 9.0C installed (is included on the CD)

-Emergency 4 supports the following types of graphic cards: GeForce 3 / GeForce 4200, 4400, 4600, 4800 / GeForce 5xxx and all higher versions / ATI 9500, 9600, 9700, 9800 / ATI X700 and all higher versions

-1 GB free hard disk space

-Original CD must be inserted while playing

-Mouse

-IDSN or DSL for playing multiplayer mode (DSL for hosting a game)

If your PC or laptop does not fit the system requirements you have two options: customize your current PC/laptop to fit the system requirements (e.g. adding an external hard drive with at least 1 GB free disk space) or buy a new PC/laptop that does fit the system requirements.

We recommend always checking if your PC or laptop fits the system requirements before buying or installing a game.

Solution 2: updating your graphic drivers

After posting your DXDIAG file you can open it like any attachment. In the beginning of the file you will see these lines of text about your graphic driver.

--- Display Devices --- Card name: ATI Radeon HD 4800 Series Manufacturer: ATI Technologies Inc. Chip type: ATI Radeon Graphics Processor (0x9442) DAC type: Internal DAC(400MHz) Device Key: Enum\PCI\VEN_1002&DEV_9442&SUBSYS_05021002&REV_00 Display Memory: 512.0 MB Current Mode: 1280 x 1024 (32 bit) (60Hz) Monitor: Plug and Play Monitor Monitor Max Res: 1600,1200 Driver Name: ati2dvag.dll Driver Version: 6.14.0010.6844 (English) DDI Version: 9 (or higher) Driver Attributes: Final Retail Driver Date/Size: 7/31/2008 23:32:35,

The orange text part displays the last date on which you updated or installed your video drivers. The blue text part lists your drivers version. If you updated your graphic drivers more then 6 months ago, it might be worth checking for an update. You can find driver updates on the website of the manufacturer. The manufacturer is mentioned in the green text part. You can usually find their website by googling their name, but just in case: you can find updates for NVidia drivers here and for ATI drivers here.

To find the updates you have to fill in your operating system (windows XP, Vista, etc.) and the name and series of the video card. You can find the card name in the red text part. Some websites also have a 'scan my pc' feature that can be used to determine the type of video card you have and automaticly searches updates for it.

We especially recommond updating your video drivers if you can find one of these lines of text in your logfile:

Please make sure you have the latest video drivers installed for your 3D card.

ERROR: dynlight.vsf Version 3.0.0.0 or higher required!

Solution 3: increasing your virtual memory

Virtual memory is an addition to your computers RAM memory. It makes sure that enough memory is available when extra memory is needed (for example to run games). If it is set on a very low number, it is possible your PC has trouble keeping up with the game. This causing the game to lag and eventually crash.

You can increase your virtual memory like this: go to the configuration screen --> open the sytem menu --> click the advanced tab --> click settings (in the performance section). Now you are in the settings tab. Click the advanced tab, you wil see the virtual memory settings at the bottom of this tab. You can alter the settings by pressing the button and increasing the maximum value of the virtual memory.

We recommond this solution if your game lags a lot and/or if it crashes right after big events like earthquakes, gas explosions etc.

Solution 4: lowering the graphic settings

If your game lags a lot or if you have problems with parts of the map not appearing on the screen correctly you could lower your graphic settings to stress your pc a little less, making the game run smoother. You can adjust the options like this:

For EM3: start EM3, in the main menu select the options button. Now select the graphics tab. Set the detail level to 'low' and disable all shadows. Now press the OK button. You will have to restart the game before the changes have any effect.

For EM4(D)/911 FR: start the game, in the main menu select the options button. Now select the graphics tab, set both detail levels to 'low' and disable all shadows. Press the OK button.

Solution 5: running on one core (DUAL core PC's only!)

In some cases people who experimented with their computer settings found that the game is much more stable when it runs on one core. We cannot exactly explain why this seems to work, but if it works for you it might be worth to try.

Off course this solution can only be used when your computer has multiple cores. If your unsure wether or not your computer is a DUAL CORE, take a look in the DXDIAG file. If you can find the words dual core with the search function, you have a dual core.

You can make the game run on one core in the following way: start the game. After the game has started and you see the main menu press CTRL+ALT+DELETE. You will see the taskmanager screen. Right click EM4.exe and select the option 'run on one core'. Now close the taskmanager and return to the game.

NOTE: the only downside is that you will have to adapt the core settings each time you start the game.

Solution 6: disable your internet connection

Forum users have found that when you disable your internet connection (unless you want to play multiplayer, you do not need to be connected to the internet) significantly reduces the lag. This is probably caused by a lower activity of background programs such as firewalls or (in case of a wireless connection) the wireless configuration trying to find the best network to connect to.

If you disabled your internet connection and you stil experience a lag you might also want to shut down your firewall. Forum users found this works especially well when you have a F-secure or ZoneAlarm firewall.

Edited August 10, 2009 by pyrothijs

[pyrothijs]

Multiplayer/online game

In Emergency 4 (and with 911FR and EM4D) there is the possibility to play multiplayer games. You manage the emergency services together with other players and need to cooperate in order to succesfully complete missions. Unfortunatly some members have troubles with connecting to the multiplayer games. Here are som of the most frequently reported errors:

Which ports do I need top open in order to be able to play multiplayer

If you want to play EMERGENCY 4 in a local network (LAN) or in the internet and if you are using a router or a firewall, you have to pay attention that the following ports have been unlocked:

• port 80
  
• port 58282 for TCP (Gameport)
  
• port 12345 for UDP
  

To open ports on your router or firewall please refer to the manual of your router/firewall. For the most commenly used routers, you can check the 'how to' guide in this topic.

I can't see any servers online, what can I do?

• First check if there is an open internet connection on your computer. You should already open an internet connection before the game starts! It is best to use a DSL connection to play multiplayer games.
  
• Also make sure you haven't selected "LAN" as connection mode in stead of "Internet".
  
• Check if your anti-virus or firewall needs 'permission' from you to allow programs acces to the internet. ZoneAlarm for example needs you to give the computer permission to allow EM4 to go online. You need to do that before you start the game. Also you need to make sure the correct ports (see above) are openend.
  
• You can try the direct IP option if you know the IP adres of the server.
  

And off ourse there is also the possibility that no one is online at the moment when you are loggin on. You can try the refresh button to see if people went online after you did. The easiest way to prevent you have nobody to play with is to get together and set a time on which you will play. You can use this topic (general EM4) or this topic (LA MOD) to make appointments with other members.

I can't host an online game, how can I fix that?

• First check if there is an open internet connection on your computer. You should already open an internet connection before the game starts! It is best to use a DSL connection to play multiplayer games.
  
• Check if your anti-virus or firewall needs 'permission' from you to allow programs acces to the internet. ZoneAlarm for example needs you to give the computer permission to allow EM4 to go online. You need to do that before you start the game. Also you need to make sure the correct ports (see above) are openend.
  
• Check to see if the IP-adres of the router is the same as the IP-adres of the computer hosting the game. If not you need to forward the ports of the router to your PC. If you want to know how to do that please refer to the manual of your router or contact it's manufacturer.
  
• If your server isn't visible on the list of servers please make sure you selected it to be a "public server".
  

NOTE: hosting frequently gives problems with Emergency 4, why we don't really know. There is however an alternate program you can use to start online games. It's called HAMACHI. It creates a virtual network allowing you to recieve the IP of a host and enter that IP to join the game. Some of our members have found it very usefull. You can find more about how HAMACHI works in this topic. You can download HAMACHi here.

ALSO NOTE: emergency-planet.com does NOT except ANY responisbility for the use of exterior programs. Please make sure you read the warranty and user manual for HAMACHI if you want to use it.

I get an error message stating my files do not match with the other player, what can I do about it?

When you get this error:

Checksum Error. Server and Client using different files.

it means the files you are using and the files the other player(s) are using differ from each other. When you want to play multiplayer not only the names of the files have to be the same, but also the contents of the files needs to be the same. So if you made any changes to a mod or if you installed submods, you can only play multiplayer if the other player(s) have exactly the same files.

There is a very easy solution for this problem:

don't change the files of the game. If you have changed the files you can always send the other player(s) all your files and they can overwrite their own files so you can play. Or you could simply reinstall the game (but you would lose your adjustments).

Edited August 10, 2009 by pyrothijs