Windows Installer & Windows XP SP3

September 7, 2008

I upgraded my sister's PC with a new motherboard, processor and hard drive

(SATA). I was able to use Western Digital’s tools to transfer files from the

old IDE to the new SATA. I ran into a slight snag and had to call &

reactivate Windows (twice) after the new motherboard & drivers were

installed. After Windows was happy, I applied all patches which included SP3.

PROBLEM: Office and Adobe icons have converted to the default icon. When I

try to use one of these applications, Windows Installer (version 3.1) pops up

and tries to install. Any attempt to install or uninstall results in an

error message saying "This patch package could not be opened. Verify that the

patch package exists and that you can access it...."

I’ve found and run the Windows Installer Cleanup Utility

(http://support.microsoft.com/kb/295823 ) many times with no luck. I’ve also

explored all the options discussed in this forum

with no success. Out of total desperation I also purchased a registry

cleaner program and ran it – still no success.

I'm beginning to suspect Windows XP SP3 and might be the reason the Cleanup

Utility no longer works. I have not uninstalled Windows Installer &

reinstalled because I'm thoroughly intimidated by the long list of

applications affected.

Does anyone have any other ideas on what to try? I'm at the end of my

wits.....

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