Have you read the manual yet?

I don't believe SX-3 will run on the Vista OS. They just got it working for Cubase 4.

More info at:

Cubase.net

i am quite familiar with cubase thanks.

it has been working for the past few months, it's just acting up today

ftp://ftp.steinberg.net/Download/Cubase_SE_3/Docs_English/Getting_Started.pdf

"A PC with Windows XP installed"

Joshh wrote: i am quite familiar with cubase thanks.

it has been working for the past few months, it's just acting up today

Do you think that "help?" or "it has been working for the past few months, it's just acting up today" offer enough insight into your concern for anyone short of a mind reader to help you.

Maybe a short mind reader can help you, hopefully, one will meander along :)

What exactly is the error that pops up?

it just displays

MICROSOFT WINDOWS

Cubase Se3 isn't working properly

-> close the program

Have you tried an uninstall and reinstall? Have you installed any plugins lately? A valid version of Cubase will crash if you have a cracked version of a plugin. Yes, I'm speaking from past experience but currently my software is all legit.

"Yes, I'm speaking from past experience but currently my software is all legit."

Can I just point out, after getting rid of certain cracked crap (format and reinstall none of it) my PC runs better.
Cracks are a pain in the neck and while free software is still a pain in the neck it won't try and steal your credit card details.

only plugins i have bought are installed on the program

Still, have you tried uninstalling any recently installed plugs?

i shall have a go now, ill get back to you, thanks