Scotty,
I don't know if this applys to your case but
you might be more specific in your requests
to Hal.
Ex: Hal search for diamonds or Research submarines.
Hal will open IE and list sites with Diamonds or subs.
You might also ask Hal to Open Internet Explorer or
however you have the file named in your system (MSIE).
If reinstalling HAL be sure to uninstall all previous
installations (like you said you did). I think your brain
files will remain.
Keep us posted on your progress.
- Art -