How to REALLY make sure a program is TOTALLY uninstalled?

[NJRonbo]

A new Mac user here.

Been using APPZAPPER to uninstall programs, and for the most
part I thought it worked pretty thoroughly at removing all traces
of any installed program....

that is, until I tried uninstalling ADOBE PHOTOSHOP CS2.

I removed all traces of the program, or so I had thought, but
it still resides in my system's memory as when I try to install CS3
there is a conflict with the old software.

How can I make absolutely certain that all traces of a software
installed are completely removed from the system's memory
including registration keys, etc?

Thanks!

 

[Brown Study]

Go to macupdate.com or versiontracker.com and download the free EasyFind search app, then punch in Photoshop and trash the files. EasyFind reveals files that Spotlight won't.

Photoshop's install disk might have an uninstaller. If it does, you might have to reinstall Photoshop to uninstall all of it.

 

[Kash]

Adobe has its own uninstaller, so using AppZapper won't get rid of it. You might have to install CS2 again and then use the uninstaller to get rid of everything

 

[technologist]

This is why I don't care for programs like AppZapper.

They only work well on simple apps, which can be just as effectively removed by Trashing them. They're not as effective at removing Adobe and Microsoft-type infestations, where you really need an uninstaller.

 

[Brendan]

I think all applications should be able to be "App-Zapped" or trashed, without running an uninstaller. Thats a big convenience that the Mac has, and I love it.

 

[Kash]

Programs like AppZapper are great 99% of the time. It's only when programs come in a folder in the Applications folder that I think twice before zapping them. Thankfully, there are only three programs like this in my Applications folder: Microsoft Office, Adobe Photoshop, and iWork. So if I ever need to get rid of them, I'll be sure to check for an uninstaller, and will do so for any future programs that sit in a folder instead of as an icon.

 

[NJRonbo]

Problem is, I don't see an uninstaller icon for Adobe Photoshop
anywhere.

 

[Kash]

Are you looking for one after having dragged the folder to the Trash?

Also, take a look at Adobe's page for installing/removing Photoshop CS2:

Understanding the Photoshop CS2 installation and removal process