error deleting registry key

Wondering if any of you folks may have a solution to my delema?

Running Windows XP Pro, Celeron 1.4, Asus TUA266.

Probelm Software ACT! 8 contact manager by Sage Software.

In summation of the software issue, since Sage took over ACT ownership and converted the database to SQL I've had no end of problems with the software. Their support has been unable to resolve my issues and now wants me to pay for continued support.

Anyway, corruption errors the program causes forces me to have to uninstall and reinstall the program regularly. Uninstall involves removing MS SQL Server, .Net Framework and ACT. This has issues of it's own but is not part of my question.

Recently I uninstalled the program but was unable to reinstall due to the following problem:

A registry key was left behind:

HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE_SOFTWARE\Microsoft\microsoft SQL Server\ACT7

I have tried to delet this key numerous ways; selective start, safe mode, safe mode command prompt, registry mechanic, crap cleaner, checked permissions, services and associations. All result with the error message: Cannot delete ACT7: Error while deleting key. I even tried a system restore to an earler date.

Any suggestions how to remove this key would greatfully apprecaited.

Steve aka WebStealth

 

IS SQL server also uninstalled?

With permissions, system and/or everyone has FULL control?

Also:

I know you checked permissions, I just find it odd, that you still can't do this. Only other thing is to use a live cd with xp on it, though, MS only approves their own PE builds of windows. Give BartPE a shot: http://majorgeeks.com/download.php?det=4007

Does this key affect anything?

 

Thanks for the reply

As best as I can tell all SQL Server was automatically removed by ACT's uninstall program. I don't see any reminants left

Double checked, "Full Control"

Is there a trail version available? I've already spent a few bucks on other utilities, registry cleaners etc. without results.

Unfortunately this key will not allow the reinstallation of MS SQL Server and therefore the ACT program won't reinstall.

Thanks again

 

Sorry, my bad. I clicked the wrong URL.

Tried the program however RegEdit appears only to open the Windows Registry on the RAM (X) drive. I can't see how to access the registry on my C: drive?

WS