For Windows 7, you must set Java to Run as Administrator ! Otherwise it will have difficulties such as connection problems. I also incurred the same problem at one time.

Since LPE seems not to run with the newest Java 1.7 which I suspect is really a beta, it will probably be easiest for you to reinstall Java 1.6.

Right-click the Java 1.6 installer & choose 'Run as Administrator'. You may need to reboot after installing I'm not sure. Download the safer 'Offline' Java Installer For Windows: Java Downloads for All Operating Systems.

It would also not hurt to do the same for LPE, right-click the short-cut on desktop for LPE & choose Run as Admin. when you get to that point.

Thanks Lord of the Rings. I can now connect and am happily downloading successfully where possible. I ignore the license pop-up and it seems to go ok. However I have downloaded some items which have informed me in an American accent that 'this is an illegal download' and directing me to a website where I can download for free legally. I think it is the newer stuff that it complains about: ie James Taylor ok - Rumer - not ok.

What is your experience or take on this?

Again thank you and thanks to Birdy also and all of you for your invaluable experience and guidance. It is much appreciated by all of us.

best regards

TaffStuart