i've tried it both ways. the double forward slash doesn't work - and neither does the double back slash. i'm still getting the same error.

i'm not sure exactly what you mean by "single quoting", philip. any other suggestions? i've already reinstalled the script, checked my cgi settings, permissions, paths etc.

hrm. maybe i should contact my hosting administrator and ask what might be going on, and maybe for some hands-on help.

thanks for your help in any case, guys. i really appreciate the support.