I'm not sure if I'm one of your "select few" or not, but reading that first line really is off putting.
The correct program to open Pronto files would be Prontoedit. Its in the downloads area.
Vert(ALso in the downloads area) can take all kinds of formats and convert them to Hex for ya as well.
You could also ask if anyone has the specific hex codes you need.
Doesnt demopad have an IR database of some sort? Its very rare that a manufacturer would change their codes, especially if we are talking about pronto files that are all 7+ years old at this point.
Many manufactures have their IR codes in Pronto Hex already as well.
Fact of the matter here is that you ARE indeed lacking info. You didnt even mention what hex codes you are looking for. Why go through all the trouble of getting 10+ year old program to run on your PC when its highly likely the codes are available from other channels.