Why are you trying to install APC? That won't get you uploadprogress.

What kind of hosting situation are you on? If you can't install PECL extensions you likely don't have permission to install what you need for the upload progress bar.

I cant install pecl extentions on my server I've checked,
is there another way?
it would really simplyfy things for the users?
should I move host?
what are your recomendations?
I'm a bit stuck

Can you download and compile new programs and then update the php config to add them in?

If you are on shared hosting the answer to this is no. You need to be on at least a VPS account and you'll most likely need root access to the server. Do you have this?

it wasnt my call! choice was mostly picking the cheepest option!
now if I have a reason to move to a better host/package I might be able to get some budget!
do you think its worth it?
or is there a workaround?
regards Graeme

There really isn't a work around.

If you switch solutions you might end up paying $30 - $50 a month. Is that price difference per month worth it for an uploader status bar?