that is actually how i had it set up on the first install. I put the runtime in a D drive that has more space than the ssd C drive. thinking the lack of permissions might be the issue, i uninstalled and completely wiped poser 12 from all folders and reinstalled it clean with the runtime in the public documents folder, as it wanted to do. no luck:( I submitted a ticket earlier and am waiting to hear back, but i really cant set up other runtimes or use P12 till i get this worked out, as i dont want to have to undo a bunch of stuff later. i really want to try it as my previous version of poser is much much older... anyone has any suggestions id love to try them.thanks.