Windows 7 - apps not launching

Having problems with Photoshop Elements 8, iTunes, and Acronis
backup software. They all (at times) refuse to launch. I keep trying
and sooner or later they do launch. I have shortcut icons for them
and all indicate the proper location on my C-drive.
Anyone else having these 'quirks'. Running Windows 7-64 bit w/all updates.

I have that problem from time to time with Outlook. It happens when I close outlook then try to go back in, because it is slow to shutdown. If I watch task manager/processes, when it ends I can then restart it, but otherwise I'll couple end up with multiple instances, non of which will display the gui.

When you try to launch them, do they show up in task manager under applications or processes?

I also had a problem with a DVD editing program.. I found it would not start unless I rebooted. It turned out to be someother program (cant remember which one - was a while ago), that seemed to be messing things up. If I didn't run that program the DVD Editing program would work fine.

DO you find that the problem you have occur after using other specific programs, or is it completely random?

tanya

Try a clean boot
How to troubleshoot a problem by performing a clean boot in Windows Vista or in Windows 7

Find the cause and uninstall or fix.

Appears to random, usually when I'm in a rush -

When it does this, how many applications are running that are actively accessing the HD?

What antivirus are you running?

Optimize Windows 7

IN addition follow this, without the reg cleaner
Suggestions for Proper Maintenance

Usually I'm not running anything, but for the usual system functions. Using AVG Antivirus.

What version of Acronis are you using -- 2010? Asking because the older versions have a nasty habbit of hanging when launched.

This may not be related, but worth a shot. Many people are ditching AVG because of weird issus and system slowdowns. Try MSE instead and see how your system runs.

Using the latest version of Acronis 2010. Not wanting to sound
like I just fell off the turnip truck, what is MSE?