Well it seems I did something wrong.

Downloaded Splat thru the store, not ccc. Went OK.

Installation failed due to plugin errors and missing system file.

Windows 7 update failed who knows why.

Norton disapeared & had to run its uninstall/reinstall app so its back.

Doing all this on a hotels wifi. Will try again Tuesday when back home.

OK, bought new Alienware laptop from Bestbuy on an open box deal (more on that in Computers) & installed Splat w/o a hitch. yay! Offline Activation went smooth & quick.
 
From new LP set up & Dell registration to Sonar install in less than 1 hr. WOW!
 
Alienware nice in many ways but will upgrade it soon. HP Envy is no envy no moe. It will be restored to factory setup & sold to highest bidder.