The patch package could not be opened

[hikermann]

WIN XP Home Edition; WP12 Office - installed a new hard drive, so am rebuilding; Windows works fine, and programs loading fine. WP12, however, loaded (thought OK) but I didn't have the three service packs available right then, so it wouldn't open correctly; attempted to uninstall it @ Add or Remove Programs, but now I get a Windows Installer "The patch package could not be opened..." message, having something to do with "verify that this is a valid Windows Installer patch package" and there is no uninstall; attempted to reinstall from the disk, but it keeps coming back to this patch package business.

Typical error message, as it gives absolutely no information, useful or otherwise, how one is supposed to rectify the matter.

Any helpful directions out there?

Many thanks.

 

[goombawaho]

In the past, the solution was to use Windows Installer Clean Up utility to remove the previous installation. After you “cleaned up” the previous install, you would be able to reinstall the program that is giving you the problem. BUT... they advise that it's no longer supported/recommended.

You could search and edit your registry being very CAREFUL and remove all references to the product you installed. Reboot. Run CCleaner registry cleaner. Reboot and then try to reinstall.

Also, make sure your Windows installer is the latest BEFORE re-installation.
Link
Find out which version you have: go to start > run and type msiexec


"Living tomorrow is everyone's sorrow.
Modern man's daydreams have turned into nightmares.

 

[Rick998]

Try the automated Microsoft Fixit: Fix problems that programs cannot be installed or uninstalled. It appears to describe the symptoms you are experiencing.

Depending on your AV product, you may find it more successful to download it, disconnect from the internet, stop your AV and run the Fixit manually rather than just choosing 'Run now' from the web page.

Hope this helps...