Troubleshooting When TSRs Are Loaded (78009)


The information in this article applies to:

  • Microsoft MS-DOS operating system 2.11
  • Microsoft MS-DOS operating system 3.1
  • Microsoft MS-DOS operating system 3.2
  • Microsoft MS-DOS operating system 3.21
  • Microsoft MS-DOS operating system 3.3
  • Microsoft MS-DOS operating system 3.3a
  • Microsoft MS-DOS operating system 4.0
  • Microsoft MS-DOS operating system 4.01
  • Microsoft MS-DOS operating system 5.0
This article was previously published under Q78009

SUMMARY

A terminate-and-stay-resident (TSR) program is a utility that resides in memory while other applications are executing.

In general, TSRs work around MS-DOS (that is, shortcuts are used). TSRs also make assumptions in the way MS-DOS acts. However, the assumptions that TSRs make with one version of MS-DOS may not apply in other versions.

For these reasons, it is a good general troubleshooting technique to not load TSR programs. TSRs can interfere with normal troubleshooting and testing.

MORE INFORMATION

Examples of TSRs are mouse drivers, some menu programs, Sidekick, Append, and Mirror. Note that batch files are never TSRs. To troubleshoot TSRs, do the following:
  1. Do not load any TSRs. Remark (rem) out all TSRs in the CONFIG.SYS and AUTOEXEC.BAT files. For example:

    rem c:\dos\doskey

  2. If the problem is resolved and MS-DOS 5.0 is being used, load all TSRs low. Some TSRs expand and contract. When loaded into high or upper memory, TSRs can cause conflicts with other devices or utilities.
  3. If a TSR is causing the problem, do the following:

    • Consult this knowledge base for information on the software.
    • Contact the TSR manufacturer for help and information.
Modification Type:MajorLast Reviewed:11/26/2003
Keywords:KB78009
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