Video Studio X3 Activation program broken, blank messages

[DZComposer]

The activation tool for Video Studio X3 is completely broken. Every button I click, except the "activate later" button does nothing but bring up a blank message box. There is an OK button, but no message. Re-installing does not fix it.

I purchased the download version.

I did not install in the default location, which is impossible on my configuration due to disk space limitations (I only make my "C" drive big enough for Windows. Saves time for the inevitable reformat that comes in the life of a Windows machine). I installed it on a separate drive: F:\Corel\Corel VideoStudio Pro X3

I am using 64-bit Win7 Ultimate.

Any ideas?

[Ken Berry]

Like you, I have a separate drive for my Program Files (K:\), but mine installed fine. I also have the download version. But can you tell us if yours was the downloaded Try Before You Buy version. My own downloaded version did not required any activation...

[DZComposer]

I bought it here http://store1.corel.com/corel/product/i ... rod3620067 and selected "download" from the "Delivery Method" combo box. I don't recall seeing a choice for "try before buy."

The file name: VSX3_Pro_PF.exe

[Ken Berry]

When does the so-called activation process begin? As far as I am aware, with the full download version, you get a Serial Number which you insert right at the very beginning of the installation process, under your name... Is that what you are talking about?

[DZComposer]

I did put my serial number in during install. The install process finished fine.

When I try to run the program, I get this window:


Only the "Activate Later" button works. That lets me use the program, but there is this whole 30 day time bomb thing.

The other buttons just give me this:


There is no delay or other things that open. Hit the button, and that blank box comes up immediately.

Gods I hate DRM so much....

In case you're wonder, yes, that really is Windows 7. I like the no-aeroglass look better.

[Ron P.]

That is a TBYB (trial) version. You did not get an email from Corel, a purchase confirmation? That should contain links to download the full version. Also when you run an installer, even though your user account on your computer may have administration privileges, right-click on the file and choose run as administrator.

With other versions (full, upgrade), it just takes a serial number. This is the instructions provided to install it:

Download Instructions

When you buy a Download Version you can download your software install it on your computer and unlock with a serial number that will be provided after purchase. Note: Does not include User Manual or backup CD however you DO have the option to purchase the CD and Manual at an additional cost. Otherwise you receive a download link to your software and serial number only.

[DZComposer]

Hmm... I actually did not receive an e-mail yet.

And logging in to check status, it still says "processing."

*sigh*

They need to make it more obvious what you are getting when you download from the confirmation page. Nothing on that page led me to believe that I was downloading a trial version. Though, for the record, I did buy paint shop photo pro x3 at the same time, and it works just fine. Never asked for activation. Downloaded it from the same page.

That said, even though this is the try-first version, it is still broken.

[Black Lab]

I think this is a case for Customer Service.

[teknisyan]

Hello DZComposer,

I sent you a private message, please supply the requested information, so that we can help you with this issue.