Good luck Steve.
I have the SAME PROBLEM, and have been trying FOR 2 YEARS to get NCH to help me out.
No such luck. Its like they want you to purchase it and dont care about customer support.
I have done ALL the things you have mention.
MY problem is that the software does NOT recognize my VCR.
In the pull down menu, it only shows my Microsoft Web Cam and NOTHING else.
I have deleted and reinstalled the program 2X.
I have double/tripple checked every thing, and still no results and no word from NCH.
If their product doesn't work with the Demo version, (and I can't get Customer Support),
I'm sure as heck not going to BUY it!