Cannot reinstall QB Pro 2008 desktop on new PC

Hello all,

I am a very unhappy camper right now.  Here's my sad story.

We purchased a copy of QB Pro 2008 (desktop) when we opened our small business in early 2008.  The software has been working perfectly for our relatively simple, little business.

Unfortunately, our desktop computer failed with a firmware issue on the mother board, and we were forced into getting another desktop.  Professional technicians moved all that they could and reinstalled what was possible.  However, we are responsible for reinstalling QB.  The files were recovered and are waiting to be imported into a fresh copy of QB. 

The problem we have run into that even using the original installation disk and key, the software thinks we have a trial version.  And as we go through the set-up process, it recognizes our previously installed company but gives a pop-up message "QuickBooks has reached the maximum number of unregistered uses. To continue using QuickBooks, you must register now."

When we go through this process, we end up at a screen that says our production registration cannot be completed online and gives us a number to call.

We have contacted support three times and each time we end up at the same place, "we can't help you, buy a new version".  We will not do this as the cost of the newer software exceeds what we currently make and our time with this company is short.  So, it is foolish to spend what they want to resolve this.

I have read a number of posts but do not see one that matches this situation exactly.  If anyone has any suggestions, we would appreciate hearing them.  If we can't fix this, we will probably find a free low-end accounting package to get us through for while.