Re-using Excel 97

[Melissa]

I purchased this product in 1997. I took it from storage
recently to put it on a computer purchased after the
original computer. It will not install stating that
setup shows that it has been installed several times and
could not be used again. Microsoft customer service was
puzzled as this is not an "activated" product nor
a "registered" product, however I did "register" the
product right after purchase. How can I reuse this
product?

 

[Jim]

Ah, it's a grand day...

Is it on a CD? I assume you have previously installed program(s) on your
computer, so I won't go into that. Nor will I mention that antivirus
programs sometime interfere with a clean installation and that you should
exit them while installing if you feel that could be the problem. However,
if you cannot figure it out even with the advise of MS Customer Service,
what help may I offer? If the setup "...states it has been installed several
times and cannot be used again..." what do you suppose would bring another
result? If you feel it will make a difference, I will go over to my
window, make a horrible face and shout some curses while shaking my fist in
direction of your computer (if only I knew which direction!). If you are
determined to "reuse this product" and do not know what else to do, I
suppose you could use it as a coaster. Take it outside and watch the colors
change as you slowly move it. Peek through the center hole. Look at the tiny
holograms and decide how they are created. Flip it a few thousand times to
determine if it lands "heads" or "tails" more often. Call MS Customer
Service and share your findings. Etc, etc, etc.

As I say, it is a fine day here and I wish you a "Happy New Year!" as I
splash a few eggs and nogs over the ol' scotch. My resolution for the coming
year is to pursue my calling: Help Line Associate! <g>

 

[Norman Harker]

Hi Melissa!

If you're happy that no-one else has been at the copy, then I suggest
you go back to your local Microsoft office and ask for more help. My
experience is that they are very friendly and helpful once you get
through to a human voice.

--
Regards
Norman Harker MVP (Excel)
Sydney, Australia
(e-mail address removed)
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