thanks y'all:
1st attempt - unloaded every Stardock file i had in my system. reloaded every program that was of any value to me. loaded SC- did not see any of the programs i just loaded. i did however see the subscription files i have (2 of them).
2nd attempt - unloaded all files (note: stripping out all registry references takes several hours)- loaded SD first put in my email and password - it recognized my account - it did not update any of the files - i reloaded the programs i wanted and SD still does not see them.
3rd attempt - removed ALL system protection including firewall and any programs that enhance and support W7 (like Tuneup 2013) - followed #2 - no luck.
4th attempt - same as 3rd attempt except i did the 1st try. no luck
total time trying to see if SD will work 12 and a half hours (not done yet - i have to replace programs that i figured SD didn't like). I am a little OCD.
anyway i see that i am not the only person with SC issues. i know that Tech support will not offer support for programs that are free. i would be willing to buy the program is i could get successful support. since i have a lot of Stardock product (both for cost and free) SD is a great program - probably the best utility - when it works.