Vista - Unable to validate Vista RC1

I acquired the trial version of Vista RC1 in response to a Microsoft online
offer. Popups keep insisting that I validate and direct me to a help screen
for that purpose. Therein I find two options: First is to click on the Active
X controls in the Information Bar, second is to declare how I acquired Vista
RC1.

An Active X bar does not appear in the validation window so I cannot
validate using that method. The second option, to list how Vista was
purchased, is available but “Microsoft trial offer� or similar is not
included in the ‘selections’ dropdown menu.

In the Internet Options Security menu Active X Scripting is enabled, Local
Internet security level is set to Medium-Low and under Trusted Sites the
"Enable Protected Mode" box is unchecked. http://office.microsoft.com is
listed in the Trusted Sites Box. I used the Product key listed inside the
Vista CD case to install.

Other Microsoft applications requiring Active X controls appear to work
normally.

Did I miss anything and how can I make my copy of Vista RC1 validate?