Re: Can't switch the postgres user..

Marvin ( you are posting everthing twice)

Re:
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When I execute the command:

postgres(at)guaj215desa ~
$ chmod 777 /usr/share/postgresql/data
chmod: changing permissions of `/usr/share/postgresql/data': Permission denied
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You also might try granting postres account administrator status when you perform the procedures.

Essentially give the postgres account all the rights and permissions you can, that enable you to succesfully run initdb, start the postmaster and connect to the database back in the Owner account
Worry afterwards about getting all the folder/file rights and permissions set correctly.

Looks like you already installed things right but JIC:

Make sure that you have done step 4 correctly (if necessary, re-install everthing from a clean machine startup, delete and recreate the postgres account again (with adminsistrator rights etc.) and the ../data and is subfolders. Check 'login-as' setting in windows services (as per last post)
Try the chmods i suggested again with administrator rights on postgres.
Make sure you have done footnote [13] (but i dont think it is that)
Ensure that you started the ipc-daemon from the Owner account before you try to create database.
Fiddle around 5,6,7,8, from there.
Remember that if the ../postgresql/data folder is not empty then initdb will not run.
Do'nt forget to at least let Jason know, if you identify the key step/action that clears the problem.
If all else fails
Read ALL of the footnotes again for clues, stand back from problem and to try understand what it is you are actually trying to do.
Remember that if you are doing this on XP Home you are trying to do something that Microsoft were hoping you would upgrade to XP Professional for. Only 170GBP about 300USD (here anyway). That would 'fix' it right away and is the means by which Microsoft makes a lot of its money.
There are also some cygwin/postgresql upgrades in the pipeline I think, that should eradicate the problem for XP Home users. Remember that this is open source and that things get fixed when the expert (Jason) and his team has 'spare' time to fix them and does not expect to get paid. Be thankful to the expert groups and help them all you can.
I understand your frustration with all this.

Roger