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If this helps, here's the breakdown:
There are 3 versions of Windows 8:
Windows 8 RT (Run Time): a scaled down version designed to run on low-powered chips (e.g., the ARM processor) used in tablets and netbooks. This is only available pre-installed on devices, just like the iPad, Kindle Fire, Nexus, etc. Any device that runs RT should clearly say so. This is the OS on the Surface RT (the one that just came out).
Windows 8 Pro: "Normal" Windows that you see on desktops and laptops. You can buy it as a separate piece of software and upgrade existing PCs. (Windows 8 actually runs really well on older PCs or low-end hardware. If you have a machine that’s painfully slow on Windows 7, give Windows 8 a try before you give up on the machine.) This is the standard OS on the Surface Pro (which is due to come out at the end of the year).
Windows 8 Enterprise: “Normal” Windows with additional features for data security and corporate domain support. This is mainly for organizations with a network and IT department, and it’s primarily sold through site licenses. Some PCs and laptops might have this version installed.
About Hero Lab (and other software):
Windows RT can only run programs written for that platform. It does support Remote Desktop, though, so you could theoretically run Hero Lab on your desktop and remote in from your RT device. (Assuming proper connections and configurations, of course. I have not yet tried this, but unless Hero Lab blocks remote desktop somehow, it should work fairly seamlessly.)
Windows 8 Pro and Enterprise should run any Windows 7 program with no visible difference except adding touch capabilities. I am currently running Hero Lab under Windows 8 on an old Toshiba Satellite and a new Samsung Ativ tablet: It works perfectly on both.
When you install Hero Lab on Windows 8, it creates a static tile at the end of the Start screen, which is just like a shortcut on the desktop. (Windows 7 programs do not support live tiles.) If you don’t see the tile, just search for the program, right-click/touch-and-hold the icon, and select Pin to Start.
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