Java SE (Java Platform, Standard Edition)

I have a totally corrupted JDK, and can't go anywhere with it.

I attempted to first install the NetBeans/JDK on my D: drive, which resulted in an incomplete installation. I went through the entire remove-programs process, but it was not complete. So, I needed to delete folders, and delete "Java" registry entries through the registry program ("regedt32.exe"). I tried again with only the JDK; this effort also resulted in an incomplete installation. I then tried to clean up what ever I could, and start again with the NetBeans on the C: drive. What resulted was an incomplete installation, once more.

Apparently, the system thinks that the JDK is still there, but it is not. The NetBeans installation cannot be removed because the uninstaller program also wants to uninstall the Java JDK environment, which isn't there. And the JDK can't be removed completely from the environment, so any attempt to re-install only the JDK results in travail, as an installation is refused and results in a "Cannot Install JDK" error message. And, of course, the JDK can't be uninstalled, because the XP environment thinks it's there. I'm completely satisfied that the Installshield Corporation was bought up, because they had huge buggy problems.

I have started in a Java class at a local college, and can't get through the courses without a functioning JDK--I don't really need the NetBeans yet. And I'm between the rock and the hard place.

Many thanks.