How to fix a bad After Effects CS3 disk?

I don't think there is anything anyone can do from that end. You really must find someone who has a matching set of disks and have him make an image copy for you. Even a set of the trial DVD package would probably solve your problem. I'd simply ask around wherever you live. There's bound to be some other user, company or school that may be able to help you by lending a package...

Mylenium

Just curious, why did you buy the whole master collection if all you needed was Photoshop? In any case that's the matter of getting what you paid for. I myself had an issue with a DVD disc when installing AE (which was fortunately caused by my DVD drive), but why don't you call Adobe and explain your situation? I'm sure they have a way to verify your license and let you download the damaged elements or send you a repair disc.

PS. Once you do get it make sure to make a reserve copy and keep it in a safe place to avoid this in the future.

but why don't you call Adobe and explain your situation? I'm sure they have a way to verify your license and let you download the damaged elements or send you a repair disc.

I doubt that will work. CS3 is long past active support, so that in essence means they will advise him to buy an upgrade. AFAIK only volume licensing with paid support contracts has this option to go back the last two versions, all other users normally are stuck with one version back/ the current version. there's no harm in trying, of course...

Mylenium

My understanding is that support extends back to at least CS3. I do recommend contacting Adobe Customer Service.

https://www.adobe.com/support/service/