ddhelp errors can usually be fixed by reinstalling DirectX.

If you are running Microsoft Netmeeting, disable it immediately in msconfig.

Don't use a program called RegClean. It is known to mess up your DirectX files. It may be CleanReg, can't remember. In fact, I have seen problems with others of these types, and you should avoid all.

Turn off all programs running in the background, especially anti-virus, during any software install. If you are concerned about the program or it's source, scan the compressed file, before installation.

Thanks for the responses. I assume I download this from the Microsoft web site? I found 3 downloads with DirectX in the title:

DirectX
DirectX 8.0a Developer Runtime
DirectX: D3DX 8.0b

Which do I choose?

Thanks again

What is your current version? Go to Start, Run, type dxdiag and OK. Look at the long DirectX version number, not the dxdiag version number.

If it is DirectX 7 (4.07.00.xxxx), theen look for the full version of DirectX 7.0a (6.3 MB).

If it is DirectX 8 (4.08.00.xxxx), then use the DirectX 8.0a version. It is on the Microsoft DirectX page.

The items you show/list may not be correct. If you can't find it, I will have to look when I get home.