Sill having ikernal problems

Have two separate software problems that are connected.  When I try to install either my minidisc or my software for my new digital camera Ithe process stops and gives me the message that the install engine (ikernel.exe) could not be launched.  Have looked and cannot find that ikernel is running for anything else.  Have tried working with the software for the two items but with two giving me the same message I think this has to be a Dell Dimension problem.  Any ideas?