Bought new pc with windows 8.1 and 64bit, cannot install x3

[caspia1]

I have just bought a new pc. with Windows 8.1 and is 64bit.
My previous one was Windows 7 and was a 32 bit system.
I cannot install X3 Ultimate from the CD. I cannot remember the password but I have the serial number ok.
It accepts the serial number but after a while says installation incomplete, followed by -21 It appears to stop when "directx" is being assessed.
What do I do? I need to have access!
Please advise.
Thanks

[dwalby2]

Well, FWIW I bought a Win8 desktop this year and attempted to install X2, X3 and X4 onto it. X2 worked without a hitch. X4 worked after I installed a couple of service packs, but not before. X3 never seemed to work at all. Since I have X2/X4 running I didn't knock myself out trying to get X3 to work, but you may be able to find the magic technique with a little experimentation with service packs, etc.

[caspia1]

Thanks for the advice. I will give it a try and let you know.

[caspia1]

Unless i can install the X3 I am not able to add any service packs.
Nobody seems to know what the -21 symbol means in the installation failure.
Cannot get anywhere near Corel themselves. All their lines are wither engaged or not working.