One stumbling block was the licensing issue with VMware. A few days ago I downloaded and installed the trial version of VMware [link] while I was waiting for the hard copy on CD from Amazon.com.

Of course, despite some setbacks, I was able to get VMware up and running before I received the software on CD. Now the dilemma was how to register the new software key on the current install, without de-installing the trial version, and re-installing the paid version.

I did try to RFM it, with no luck. Same with the online knowledgebase at VMware.com , and one email sent to customer service a couple of days ago is still unanswered.

So today I try again and I stumble across the VMware Forum: I post my query at 7:36 AM (EST) and etung gets me the correct answer at 9:06 EST. One and a half hour, perfect solution [link].

Of course it was a DUH! moment, but – in my defense – Google has made us lazy. Why look for something when you can search it Google it ? Have a problem? Google the problem! Do you have a weird error message using your computer, software, HDTV, iPod? Google the error message and you’ll find the answer. And if the lazy way doesn’t work out, you’ll find a gentle soul, one of the savvy gurus willing to share with you their knowledge [link].

No so fast ! The entire process gets stuck at the Windows install level, when it says “Setup will complete in approximately: 39 minutes”, and the machine just sits there . . . I have left it there for hours, no good.

And of course it wreaks havoc on the entire system.

So I thought . . . why not get VMware Fusion , which seems to have great reviews everywhere, including Chris, who makes a very compelling argument. I surely did not want to drive to the Apple Store, and while I was at VMware site, I found out that you can actually download a fully functioning 30 day evaluation copy: enhanced functionality, and a chance to solve my install problems . . . it’s a no brainer!

[It's a good idea to remove the Boot Camp partition before proceeding.]

So, registering and downloading it’s a breeze, installation of VWware Focus it’s a piece of cake, virtual partition, etc . . . but the windows install gets stuck at the same exact point: “Setup will complete in approximately: 39 minutes”.

So now I am thinking that the only logical explanation in this illogical mayhem is that there’s something wrong with the media itself. A look at the Windows XP Professional CD-ROM (and YES, I am using XP Professional SP2) doesn’t show any sign of abuse. The only way to check is to make a back-up copy and see, if there’s damage, it will not copy.
Nope, the back-up copy comes out perfect, so perfect that once I use the copy to try to install Win on the Mac, it gets stuck at the same place . . .

. . . the sage continues.