Is it possible to run an old 16-bit DOS application under Windows 7 64-bit? [duplicate]

Possible Duplicate:
Why 64 bit OS can't run a 16 bit application?
How do I get 16-bit programs to work on a 64-bit Windows?

Here at work my new development machine is Windows 7 64-bit (so I can use extra memory and run VMs). However I have a dilemma: it appears that 16-bit DOS programs do not run under Windows 7 64-bit.

I have an old legacy program written in Clipper that I need to run periodically.

I cannot access the compatibility setting as Windows 7 just greys them out.

For older DOS programs you can try running them in DOSBox Emulator.

You gave your own solution in your question:

so I can ... run VMs

Just run a VM that is capable of running your Clipper application, VMWare with an earlier version of Windows or FreeDOS (or real MSDOS).

Just be aware that you generally need licences to run operating systems in virtual machines (which is why FreeDOS may be a viable option if you can't get a licence for the Microsoft DOS).

If you have Windows 7 Professional, Ultimate or Enterprise then you can use the built-in Windows XP mode.