>What I'm asking is - what do I have to do so I don't go through this any more??
>
>Kevin, I don't have the answer that you're looking for, but let me give some food for thought...
>
>First, there are pre-reqs for just about every piece of software, even VFP.
>
>Second, John Ryan mentioned QuickBooks somewhere in this thread - even QB has installation issues on certain computers. There are no guarantees.
>
>Third, MS publishes pre-reqs for their products, but they don't cover every single possible detail. I go through install issues from time to time - sometimes I can google and hone in on the answer in a matter of minutes, and sometimes it takes longer.
>
>Last month I had over a dozen installation issues in trying to create a VM for the latest CTPs of SharePoint and SQL Server and VS. Yes, those were CTPs, but still it was a matter of research and some trial and error. There usually "is" an answer and a path, though sometimes it does feel like a maze. So I feel your pain.
>
>Fourth, it doesn't surprise me when someone runs into an install issue on "older" software with newer machines (or newest software on older machines). Maybe I've developed so much of a "solve it and move on" mindset from doing so many installs, that I don't let these get to me....segue to my final point.
>
>Lastly...I debated saying this...this is not meant as a personal attack, but a suggestion. You do seem to react pretty quickly when you run into a technical issue. It helps to stay calm. In my case, if I start getting pissed off when something doesn't work, I tend to lose focus. I sense you (and about a million other people) may be the same way. When things don't install correctly but are "supposed to", there's a good chance there is a resolution....so focus on that, and try to avoid getting worked up. I know, easier said than done.

That's definitely true of me. One thing I have found is that when I get so frustrated with something the computer is refusing to do the way I want it to do <g> that I am about to throw it through a window, it helps to get away from it for a while. Even if it's only walking for a few minutes or switching to a different task. Often the pieces fall into place after that, which tells me the frustration was getting in the way of finding a solution.