I have a need for slotted pads on 1 project which I see the new 2.1.9 beta supports. I currently have 2.1.0.5 on the machine and read someplace that if you use 2.1.9 you can't go back and use 2.1.0.5. Can I install both on the same XP machine?

Thanks
Geoff

You can try to install both versions, but it may lead to some minor problems because some settings are stored in registry and they will be common for both versions.
My suggestion is the following. Save backup copy of .exe files from version 2.1. Install the beta version, then rename exe files of ver.2.1 and move them to a folder with the beta version. You will be able to run the beta version from start menu and version 2.1 by clicking on exe file.

Thanks , that seemed to worked. I notice in the beta the W - switch layer key doesn't switch layers and in one mode, edit trace i believe, brings up a window with line widths.

Thanks
Geoff

Yes, the W hot key opens submenu of changing trace width.
There are alternative hot keys for changing layers (T, B, 1..9) in the beta version.