I used SPDv3.x to backup a laptop to an external hard drive.  I used 4.3GB splits in the event I needed to put these to DVD.

I used VMware 6 Workstation to try to open the existing VM, chose my StorageProtect SPF file and I received the error message: "failed to query source for information".

What do I need to do in order to be able to boot the VM?

Will I have to boot VMware6 Workstation with the Shadow Protect Desktop ISO file, then restore the SPF files to it?  Anyone have a step-by-step on how to use this?  Better to use VMware6 or Parallels?
 

> Better to use VMware6 or Parallels?

Vmware workstation 6 is superior, just look at the number of features. Bugs are fixed much faster on vmware because there is a constant trickling-down of bugfixes from their data center flagship "ESX server". If you want to try out a freebee you could check out Virtualbox from Virtualbox.org, they are a new player but growing fast in popularity (can only speak for central europe though).