3DSMAX 9 error: The application failed to initialize properly (0xc0000005)

Hi to all TechyV readers and experts,
I hope I am posting in the right section, well anyway, whenever I open 3DS Max 9, I get this error: The application failed to initialize properly (0xc0000005). My only option is to click OK to terminate the application.
I am using Windows Vista and I have a great rig, processor-memory-and-video-card wise. This is a freshly installed 3DSMax. Maybe something went wrong with the installation, I don't know. Can anyone please give me some advise.
I would appreciate any help. Thanks in advance.
