A disk read error has occured, press Ctrl + Alt + Del to restart.

[kenichi]

So basically every time I start up my computer I get a "A disk read error has occured, press Ctrl + Alt + Del to restart" error. I have already tried using the Windows XP Reinstall CD to repair, but when I use a command like CHKDSK I get a "the volume appears to contain one or more unrecoverable problems" error. When I try FIXBOOT I get a "Failed to open Partition" problem.

Is it a problem with my HD?

IF so, is there any way I can save the data that is on it?

Thank you for your help.

 

[MrLinux]

By the sound of it your partition table is corrupt, there are various recovery programs available, the one I have used with some degree of success is TestDisk which is included with PartedMagic.

 

[kenichi]

I just tested it with multiple programs (I actually got it to start up once!) and it said there was no bad sectors and everything was fine.

Any other suggestions?

 

[mford66215]

get a copy of gibson research's Spinrite.

That way you can at least exclude it being a hard disk error (which I think it is, bad sectors)

 

[xbrainer]

I just got my new I7 system and i am having this same problem. I am using a WD Black 640GB and get this same error anytime the comp is abnormally shutdown such a random freeze or blue screen. Ive tried everything and even reformatted and re-installed Vista still get the error after some time. The only thing i can think to do would be to buy another hard drive.

 

[mike99]

xbrainer, if you have just bought this syste, take/send it back and get it fixed, it is BROKE!

Mike.