I have the same problem and re-installing does not seem to work. Is there a way to completely remove the hot key program/driver first before reinstalling? I can't seem to find anywhere to initiate the uninstall.
I have right-clicked on the item in the taskbar and closed it. The hot keys still work but there is no on screen display (ie the volume bar). The next time I boot windows the program does not appear in the taskbar but it does come back after the second reboot.
This is more anoying than anything else but I would like to get rid of it - not sure when it started - must have been after an install or reinstall of something else.
BTW I have an AW 7700 but since you Sager guys got your 9860's first I always check here as you have had longer to work out the bugs.
Appreciate any assistance you can give to one of your close cousins!