This Guide will take you through the basics of installing Microsoft Expression Graphic Designer.

Microsoft Expression Graphic Designer (Sept. 2006 Community Technology Preview Build) is currently available as a free download (118.8 MB).

System Requirements

Supported operating system: Microsoft Windows XP with Service Pack 2

Minimum system requirements:
Microsoft Windows XP with Service Pack 2
733 Mhz processor with MMX or equivalent
256 MB of RAM
400 MB available disk drive space
800×600 monitor resolution with 24-bit color
Mouse and/or digitizer tablet

Recommended system:
Microsoft Windows XP with Service Pack 2 (SP2) or later
Pentium 4 processor with MMX or equivalent
512 MB of RAM
600 MB available disk drive space
1024×768 or greater monitor resolution with 24-bit color

Installation
Download Graphic Designer and double-click on the installation file to begin the installation process.

1) Step 1: Choose Setup Type
Typical - This option will automatically install the program to your Windows drive. It is recommended for novice or less experienced computer users.

Custom - Recommended option for intermediate and advanced users. Currently, the custom options are very limited, though more options will likely be added when the full retail-ready version of the program is released. The custom option allows you to choose the destination location to install the program. It also allows you to install the program to run from a network.

We chose the Custom install option for this guide.

2) Step 2: Choose the directory to install Microsoft Expression Graphic Designer
Browse to the folder you want to install to or create a new folder. For our purposes, we will be installing Graphic Designer to our E: drive. Click the New Folder icon to create a new subdirectory and name it “Expression” and click OK.

3) Step 3: Installation
The program is now ready to be installed. If you need to make any changes, now is the time. Press the Back button to make any changes. We are now ready to install. Press the Install button to begin installation. Do not turn off your computer or close the installation status dialog box until installation is complete.

4) Step 4: Completing the Installation
Once all the files are finished installing. Press the Finish button.

Running Microsoft Expression Graphic Designer for the first time

Locate the program launch icon
If no desktop icon was created during installation, you will need open your Start menu and locate the Microsoft Expression program group. Click on the Microsoft Expression Graphic Designer icon to launch the program.