e-Machine stuck in continual loop

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

I have a T-2042 eMachine that was pre-loaded with Windows XP Home Edition.
So I do not have a Windows XP installation CD. I have tried to boot to
Windows XP, but it just continually loops restarting over and over. I have
tried to go into safe mode and it won't let me enter safe mode of any kind,
nor will it allow me to enter windows using the last know good configuration.
I am trying to find a way to gain access somehow to be able to pull off
some recent docs that were not backed up yet. I only have the restore CDs
that came with the pc, and I am trying to avoid wiping out my HDD at least
until I can get the docs. Does anyone have any suggestions for doing
this???? Thanks!
--
nlee788

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

Install the hard drive as a slave in another computer and then copy
everything you want.
You may need to Take ownership if NTFS file system was used:
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=308421

Contact eMachines for other possible options.

--
Jupiter Jones [MVP]
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar
http://www.dts-l.org


"nlee788" <nlee788@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:C788218E-C2CA-41C3-A079-8AFC78A0EC36@microsoft.com...
>I have a T-2042 eMachine that was pre-loaded with Windows XP Home Edition.
> So I do not have a Windows XP installation CD. I have tried to boot to
> Windows XP, but it just continually loops restarting over and over. I
> have
> tried to go into safe mode and it won't let me enter safe mode of any
> kind,
> nor will it allow me to enter windows using the last know good
> configuration.
> I am trying to find a way to gain access somehow to be able to pull off
> some recent docs that were not backed up yet. I only have the restore CDs
> that came with the pc, and I am trying to avoid wiping out my HDD at least
> until I can get the docs. Does anyone have any suggestions for doing
> this???? Thanks!
> --
> nlee788

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

"" wrote:
> I have a T-2042 eMachine that was pre-loaded with Windows XP
> Home Edition.
> So I do not have a Windows XP installation CD. I have tried
> to boot to
> Windows XP, but it just continually loops restarting over and
> over. I have
> tried to go into safe mode and it won't let me enter safe mode
> of any kind,
> nor will it allow me to enter windows using the last know good
> configuration.
> I am trying to find a way to gain access somehow to be able
> to pull off
> some recent docs that were not backed up yet. I only have the
> restore CDs
> that came with the pc, and I am trying to avoid wiping out my
> HDD at least
> until I can get the docs. Does anyone have any suggestions
> for doing
> this???? Thanks!
> --
> nlee788

Greetings nlee,
You could have a hardware issue here or possibly a bad virus. Has your
computer been upgraded since you have owned it :?: Have you changed
any hardware or software lately :?: Out of the box, your machine
only had 128mb of DDR Ram installed :!: and had a power supply of
250watts :!: In my opinion 128mb RAM is not enough to effectively run
WIN XP. I believe 256mb is bare minimum.

I am wondering if you could have a memory issue here. If the memory
chip has gone south you will not be able to start Windows XP. The
Power Supply could also be a source of your present difficulty as
eMachines power supplies were marginal at best.

I would first pull the memory stick and get it tested at the local
guru. He can check your power supply also if you don’t own a digital
meter.
Best regards,
ultra_classic

--
Posted using the http://www.windowsforumz.com interface, at author's request
Articles individually checked for conformance to usenet standards
Topic URL: http://www.windowsforumz.com/Help---Support-Machine-stuck-continual-loop-ftopict553560.html
Visit Topic URL to contact author (reg. req'd). Report abuse: http://www.windowsforumz.com/eform.php?p=1756774

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

I do have another pc I can try this with, but the OS is Win ME. Would that
create any conflicts?
--
nlee788


"Jupiter Jones [MVP]" wrote:

> Install the hard drive as a slave in another computer and then copy
> everything you want.
> You may need to Take ownership if NTFS file system was used:
> http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=308421
>
> Contact eMachines for other possible options.
>
> --
> Jupiter Jones [MVP]
> http://www3.telus.net/dandemar
> http://www.dts-l.org
>
>
> "nlee788" <nlee788@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
> news:C788218E-C2CA-41C3-A079-8AFC78A0EC36@microsoft.com...
> >I have a T-2042 eMachine that was pre-loaded with Windows XP Home Edition.
> > So I do not have a Windows XP installation CD. I have tried to boot to
> > Windows XP, but it just continually loops restarting over and over. I
> > have
> > tried to go into safe mode and it won't let me enter safe mode of any
> > kind,
> > nor will it allow me to enter windows using the last know good
> > configuration.
> > I am trying to find a way to gain access somehow to be able to pull off
> > some recent docs that were not backed up yet. I only have the restore CDs
> > that came with the pc, and I am trying to avoid wiping out my HDD at least
> > until I can get the docs. Does anyone have any suggestions for doing
> > this???? Thanks!
> > --
> > nlee788
>
>
>

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

I have thought that it might be a virus because of the way it is acting. I
only have Norton 2005 Anti-Virus. I used the CD to try to scan the HDD and
it did not find anything, but that is not conclusive I know. I just can't
get into safe mode, and I can get an A prompt but no C prompt. Very
frustrating.

I am going to try each oh the suggestions posted until if aor when something
works.

Thank you!
--
nlee788


"ultra_classic" wrote:

> "" wrote:
> > I have a T-2042 eMachine that was pre-loaded with Windows XP
> > Home Edition.
> > So I do not have a Windows XP installation CD. I have tried
> > to boot to
> > Windows XP, but it just continually loops restarting over and
> > over. I have
> > tried to go into safe mode and it won't let me enter safe mode
> > of any kind,
> > nor will it allow me to enter windows using the last know good
> > configuration.
> > I am trying to find a way to gain access somehow to be able
> > to pull off
> > some recent docs that were not backed up yet. I only have the
> > restore CDs
> > that came with the pc, and I am trying to avoid wiping out my
> > HDD at least
> > until I can get the docs. Does anyone have any suggestions
> > for doing
> > this???? Thanks!
> > --
> > nlee788
>
> Greetings nlee,
> You could have a hardware issue here or possibly a bad virus. Has your
> computer been upgraded since you have owned it :?: Have you changed
> any hardware or software lately :?: Out of the box, your machine
> only had 128mb of DDR Ram installed :!: and had a power supply of
> 250watts :!: In my opinion 128mb RAM is not enough to effectively run
> WIN XP. I believe 256mb is bare minimum.
>
> I am wondering if you could have a memory issue here. If the memory
> chip has gone south you will not be able to start Windows XP. The
> Power Supply could also be a source of your present difficulty as
> eMachines power supplies were marginal at best.
>
> I would first pull the memory stick and get it tested at the local
> guru. He can check your power supply also if you don’t own a digital
> meter.
> Best regards,
> ultra_classic
>
> --
> Posted using the http://www.windowsforumz.com interface, at author's request
> Articles individually checked for conformance to usenet standards
> Topic URL: http://www.windowsforumz.com/Help---Support-Machine-stuck-continual-loop-ftopict553560.html
> Visit Topic URL to contact author (reg. req'd). Report abuse: http://www.windowsforumz.com/eform.php?p=1756774
>

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

ultra_Classic,

Sorry I did not answer the question as to recent hardware or software
upgrade. No I have not upgraded at all in the two years I have had it. I
was actually looking for memory last week. But I have not even cracked the
case open. Thank you.
--
nlee788


"ultra_classic" wrote:

> "" wrote:
> > I have a T-2042 eMachine that was pre-loaded with Windows XP
> > Home Edition.
> > So I do not have a Windows XP installation CD. I have tried
> > to boot to
> > Windows XP, but it just continually loops restarting over and
> > over. I have
> > tried to go into safe mode and it won't let me enter safe mode
> > of any kind,
> > nor will it allow me to enter windows using the last know good
> > configuration.
> > I am trying to find a way to gain access somehow to be able
> > to pull off
> > some recent docs that were not backed up yet. I only have the
> > restore CDs
> > that came with the pc, and I am trying to avoid wiping out my
> > HDD at least
> > until I can get the docs. Does anyone have any suggestions
> > for doing
> > this???? Thanks!
> > --
> > nlee788
>
> Greetings nlee,
> You could have a hardware issue here or possibly a bad virus. Has your
> computer been upgraded since you have owned it :?: Have you changed
> any hardware or software lately :?: Out of the box, your machine
> only had 128mb of DDR Ram installed :!: and had a power supply of
> 250watts :!: In my opinion 128mb RAM is not enough to effectively run
> WIN XP. I believe 256mb is bare minimum.
>
> I am wondering if you could have a memory issue here. If the memory
> chip has gone south you will not be able to start Windows XP. The
> Power Supply could also be a source of your present difficulty as
> eMachines power supplies were marginal at best.
>
> I would first pull the memory stick and get it tested at the local
> guru. He can check your power supply also if you don’t own a digital
> meter.
> Best regards,
> ultra_classic
>
> --
> Posted using the http://www.windowsforumz.com interface, at author's request
> Articles individually checked for conformance to usenet standards
> Topic URL: http://www.windowsforumz.com/Help---Support-Machine-stuck-continual-loop-ftopict553560.html
> Visit Topic URL to contact author (reg. req'd). Report abuse: http://www.windowsforumz.com/eform.php?p=1756774
>

 

[chelsea]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

Hello
This could be caused by a number of things. A virus is a possibility, but if
I were you I'd reset the MBR (Master Boot Record). This can be done from the
recovery console and also in other ways. First though do you know how to
access the recovery console?

Chelsea

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

No I do not know how I can reach the recovery console. I have tried every
selection on the screen and tried to access safe mode and it just continues
to loop...restarting and shutting down over and over. I will try any
suggestions. Thanks!
--
nlee788


"Chelsea" wrote:

> Hello
> This could be caused by a number of things. A virus is a possibility, but if
> I were you I'd reset the MBR (Master Boot Record). This can be done from the
> recovery console and also in other ways. First though do you know how to
> access the recovery console?
>
> Chelsea
>
>
>

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

That will work as long as file system is FAT 32.
If you are using NTFS, it will not work.

--
Jupiter Jones [MVP]
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar
http://www.dts-l.org


"nlee788" <nlee788@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
newsD3B205B-5982-4229-93D8-D7CC2CAF66BE@microsoft.com...
>I do have another pc I can try this with, but the OS is Win ME. Would that
> create any conflicts?
> --
> nlee788
>
>
> "Jupiter Jones [MVP]" wrote:
>
>> Install the hard drive as a slave in another computer and then copy
>> everything you want.
>> You may need to Take ownership if NTFS file system was used:
>> http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=308421
>>
>> Contact eMachines for other possible options.
>>
>> --
>> Jupiter Jones [MVP]
>> http://www3.telus.net/dandemar
>> http://www.dts-l.org
>>
>>
>> "nlee788" <nlee788@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
>> news:C788218E-C2CA-41C3-A079-8AFC78A0EC36@microsoft.com...
>> >I have a T-2042 eMachine that was pre-loaded with Windows XP Home
>> >Edition.
>> > So I do not have a Windows XP installation CD. I have tried to boot to
>> > Windows XP, but it just continually loops restarting over and over. I
>> > have
>> > tried to go into safe mode and it won't let me enter safe mode of any
>> > kind,
>> > nor will it allow me to enter windows using the last know good
>> > configuration.
>> > I am trying to find a way to gain access somehow to be able to pull
>> > off
>> > some recent docs that were not backed up yet. I only have the restore
>> > CDs
>> > that came with the pc, and I am trying to avoid wiping out my HDD at
>> > least
>> > until I can get the docs. Does anyone have any suggestions for doing
>> > this???? Thanks!
>> > --
>> > nlee788
>>
>>
>>

 

[chelsea]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

Hiya
As you don't have a Windows XP CD you will only have one way of accessing
the recovery console and that is by using boot disks. Microsoft recognise
that computer builders do not always provide an installation CD and so make
available a set of 3.5 inch diskettes that allow you to get into Windows XP.
This is useless if you don't have a floppy drive and a working PC to make
the boot disks with, but I'll assume you do. You can download a utility for
making the boot disks here
http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/results.aspx?freetext=xp+boot+disk&productID=&DisplayLang=en
It is very important to choose the right one. So select the utility for
Windows XP Home that corresponds to the service pack you have loaded on your
PC. Once you have created your boot disks-I think there may be five in
all-Boot your PC with Disk 1 in the A: drive. If your Bios is set to boot
first from the hard disk you will have to change the boot order so that the
A: drive boots first. Eventually you will get to a screen that asks if you
want to install Windows XP or do a repair using the recovery console. Select
to repair using the recovery console. The recovery console will load and you
must enter the administrator's password before it will let you do anything.
If you don't know the administrator's password leave that field empty and
hope that it wasn't set by the system builder. Once that is done you need to
reset the MBR. You can find out how to do that here
http://www.microsoft.com/resources/documentation/Windows/XP/all/reskit/en-us/Default.asp?url=/resources/documentation/Windows/XP/all/reskit/en-us/prkd_tro_ldau.asp

and that hopefully will get Windows XP running once more, if not we'll need
to rethink. Best of luck!

Chelsea

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

Hi,
I can access the website at work and download the utility to the floppies,
or I am sure I can use my daughter's pc to do it. I don't think there is an
administrator's passwork, I hope not. I will give this a shot. Thank you
all for your help and suggestions! I will be back to let you know what
happens.
--
nlee788


"Chelsea" wrote:

> Hiya
> As you don't have a Windows XP CD you will only have one way of accessing
> the recovery console and that is by using boot disks. Microsoft recognise
> that computer builders do not always provide an installation CD and so make
> available a set of 3.5 inch diskettes that allow you to get into Windows XP.
> This is useless if you don't have a floppy drive and a working PC to make
> the boot disks with, but I'll assume you do. You can download a utility for
> making the boot disks here
> http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/results.aspx?freetext=xp+boot+disk&productID=&DisplayLang=en
> It is very important to choose the right one. So select the utility for
> Windows XP Home that corresponds to the service pack you have loaded on your
> PC. Once you have created your boot disks-I think there may be five in
> all-Boot your PC with Disk 1 in the A: drive. If your Bios is set to boot
> first from the hard disk you will have to change the boot order so that the
> A: drive boots first. Eventually you will get to a screen that asks if you
> want to install Windows XP or do a repair using the recovery console. Select
> to repair using the recovery console. The recovery console will load and you
> must enter the administrator's password before it will let you do anything.
> If you don't know the administrator's password leave that field empty and
> hope that it wasn't set by the system builder. Once that is done you need to
> reset the MBR. You can find out how to do that here
> http://www.microsoft.com/resources/documentation/Windows/XP/all/reskit/en-us/Default.asp?url=/resources/documentation/Windows/XP/all/reskit/en-us/prkd_tro_ldau.asp
>
> and that hopefully will get Windows XP running once more, if not we'll need
> to rethink. Best of luck!
>
> Chelsea
>
>
>

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

Hi,

Maybe I am doing something wrong, but I went to the site you linked to
download the utility and inserted the first disk. I was not prompted to
insert any other disks to continue the download to multiple disks. I
received a message that the disk capacity is too small, insert a disk with a
larger capacity. Operator error??

Thanks!
--
nlee788


"Chelsea" wrote:

> Hiya
> As you don't have a Windows XP CD you will only have one way of accessing
> the recovery console and that is by using boot disks. Microsoft recognise
> that computer builders do not always provide an installation CD and so make
> available a set of 3.5 inch diskettes that allow you to get into Windows XP.
> This is useless if you don't have a floppy drive and a working PC to make
> the boot disks with, but I'll assume you do. You can download a utility for
> making the boot disks here
> http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/results.aspx?freetext=xp+boot+disk&productID=&DisplayLang=en
> It is very important to choose the right one. So select the utility for
> Windows XP Home that corresponds to the service pack you have loaded on your
> PC. Once you have created your boot disks-I think there may be five in
> all-Boot your PC with Disk 1 in the A: drive. If your Bios is set to boot
> first from the hard disk you will have to change the boot order so that the
> A: drive boots first. Eventually you will get to a screen that asks if you
> want to install Windows XP or do a repair using the recovery console. Select
> to repair using the recovery console. The recovery console will load and you
> must enter the administrator's password before it will let you do anything.
> If you don't know the administrator's password leave that field empty and
> hope that it wasn't set by the system builder. Once that is done you need to
> reset the MBR. You can find out how to do that here
> http://www.microsoft.com/resources/documentation/Windows/XP/all/reskit/en-us/Default.asp?url=/resources/documentation/Windows/XP/all/reskit/en-us/prkd_tro_ldau.asp
>
> and that hopefully will get Windows XP running once more, if not we'll need
> to rethink. Best of luck!
>
> Chelsea
>
>
>

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

Sort of, you are making a common error.
Do not download to floppy.
Instead download somewhere you can locate on the hard drive.
Then double click the icon and follow the prompts.
You will be prompted when to insert each floppy.

--
Jupiter Jones [MVP]
http://www3.telus.net/dandemar
http://www.dts-l.org


"nlee788" <nlee788@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:C1AB206A-4CB2-4423-B645-A51D99A1819F@microsoft.com...
> Hi,
>
> Maybe I am doing something wrong, but I went to the site you linked to
> download the utility and inserted the first disk. I was not prompted to
> insert any other disks to continue the download to multiple disks. I
> received a message that the disk capacity is too small, insert a disk with
> a
> larger capacity. Operator error??
>
> Thanks!
> --
> nlee788

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

Thanks! I won't be able to do that until I can get to another computer. I
hope once I get the disks it will do the trick. I Really appreciate all the
help!
--
nlee788


"Jupiter Jones [MVP]" wrote:

> Sort of, you are making a common error.
> Do not download to floppy.
> Instead download somewhere you can locate on the hard drive.
> Then double click the icon and follow the prompts.
> You will be prompted when to insert each floppy.
>
> --
> Jupiter Jones [MVP]
> http://www3.telus.net/dandemar
> http://www.dts-l.org
>
>
> "nlee788" <nlee788@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
> news:C1AB206A-4CB2-4423-B645-A51D99A1819F@microsoft.com...
> > Hi,
> >
> > Maybe I am doing something wrong, but I went to the site you linked to
> > download the utility and inserted the first disk. I was not prompted to
> > insert any other disks to continue the download to multiple disks. I
> > received a message that the disk capacity is too small, insert a disk with
> > a
> > larger capacity. Operator error??
> >
> > Thanks!
> > --
> > nlee788
>
>
>

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

"nlee788" wrote:
>ultra_Classic,
>
>Sorry I did not answer the question as to recent hardware or software

>upgrade. No I have not upgraded at all in the two years I have had
>it. I
>was actually looking for memory last week. But I have not even
>cracked the case open. Thank you.
Greetings nlee788,
Glad you are hanging in there. Just a thought .... you have Norton AV
2005. Good.... did you make an Emergency Boot disk as they suggested
when you installed Norton? Better yet did they give one? I am not
familiar with Norton but can their CD be used as an Emergency Boot
Disk in case of a virus attack?
Open your side cover and check the inside for DUST! Believe it or not
but damp dust can stop you cold. Blow out under, around, and on the
motherboard, also check and clean the fan/heatsink on the CPU. Check
the fan on the power supply and clean it too.

If nothing suggested helps, consider a virus :roll:

Here is a spec sheet and list of memory and upgrade parts for your
machine.
http://www.pcfactoryoutlet.com/default.asp?source=&customerID=20057611250-65.1.21.201&storeID=4
Use drop down menus on left and select Mfg. and then the Model
Also here is a site that us eMachiners use...register and have a look.
http://s2.invisionfree.com/emachineupgraders/index.php?

You have gotten a lot of solid suggestions on this forum from
everyone. I hope that one works out for you. Post back to this thread
and let us know how you are doing. Your post with a solution may help
someone else.
Best of luck,
ultra_classic

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

Hi ultra_Classic,

Thanks, I will be able to try all these suggestions tomorrow. I really do
appreciate all the good suggestions and help, I hope one of them works too!
I really do not want to wipe out my HDD until I have tried all I can to get
in there and get the docs I am after. That's going to have to be the last
resort....I am a bit stubborn when I am trying to find a solution to a
problem. Also, thanks for the link to the spec sheet. I will certainly post
back to everyone and let you know what happens. This is a great place to
find solutions!

I did have an emergency Norton disk, but I have not been able to find it
since a recent move. I do have a Norton CD which I tried to boot from and it
ran a scan and did not detect anything, but I still could not reach the C
prompt with it. I get an "invalid drive specification" message. I have
checked the BIOS and the HDD is recognised, so I am hoping that is a good
sign. I also went in and displayed the partition information...looked okay
there.

If I could just get to the C prompt I was going to try to find the dir my
docs are in and try to copy them to disk that way. Then just FDISK, reformat
the HDD and reload from the restore cds that came with the pc, and run a
virus scan.

Someone on this discussion also suggested I use another HDD to jump to the
existing HDD by attaching it as a master and setting the existing as a slave.
The other HDD I would be able to get a hold of and use does not have Win XP
OS on it, it has Win ME. Can you tell me if that would that create a
software conflict if I tried that? I do know that the existing drive is NTFS.
As to your virus roll suggestion, sorry not that knowledgable....how would I
do that? Thanks again!
--
nlee788


"ultra_classic" wrote:

> "nlee788" wrote:
> >ultra_Classic,
> >
> >Sorry I did not answer the question as to recent hardware or software
>
> >upgrade. No I have not upgraded at all in the two years I have had
> >it. I
> >was actually looking for memory last week. But I have not even
> >cracked the case open. Thank you.
> Greetings nlee788,
> Glad you are hanging in there. Just a thought .... you have Norton AV
> 2005. Good.... did you make an Emergency Boot disk as they suggested
> when you installed Norton? Better yet did they give one? I am not
> familiar with Norton but can their CD be used as an Emergency Boot
> Disk in case of a virus attack?
> Open your side cover and check the inside for DUST! Believe it or not
> but damp dust can stop you cold. Blow out under, around, and on the
> motherboard, also check and clean the fan/heatsink on the CPU. Check
> the fan on the power supply and clean it too.
>
> If nothing suggested helps, consider a virus :roll:
>
> Here is a spec sheet and list of memory and upgrade parts for your
> machine.
> http://www.pcfactoryoutlet.com/default.asp?source=&customerID=20057611250-65.1.21.201&storeID=4
> Use drop down menus on left and select Mfg. and then the Model
> Also here is a site that us eMachiners use...register and have a look.
> http://s2.invisionfree.com/emachineupgraders/index.php?
>
> You have gotten a lot of solid suggestions on this forum from
> everyone. I hope that one works out for you. Post back to this thread
> and let us know how you are doing. Your post with a solution may help
> someone else.
> Best of luck,
> ultra_classic
>

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

"nlee788" wrote:
>Hi ultra_Classic,
>
>Thanks, I will be able to try all these suggestions tomorrow. I
>really do
>appreciate all the good suggestions and help, I hope one of them
works
>too!
>I really do not want to wipe out my HDD until I have tried all I can
>to get
>in there and get the docs I am after. That’s going to have to
>be the last
>resort....I am a bit stubborn when I am trying to find a solution to
a
>
>problem. Also, thanks for the link to the spec sheet. I will
>certainly post
>back to everyone and let you know what happens. This is a great
place
>to find solutions!
>
>I did have an emergency Norton disk, but I have not been able to find
>it
>since a recent move. I do have a Norton CD which I tried to boot
from
>and it ran a scan and did not detect anything, but I still could not
>reach the C prompt with it. I get an "invalid drive specification"

>message. I have checked the BIOS and the HDD is recognised, so I am
>hoping that is a good sign. I also went in and displayed the
>partition information...looked okay
>there.
>
>If I could just get to the C prompt I was going to try to find the
dir
>my
>docs are in and try to copy them to disk that way. Then just FDISK,
>reformat
>the HDD and reload from the restore cds that came with the pc, and
run
>a
>virus scan.
>
>Someone on this discussion also suggested I use another HDD to jump
to
>the
>existing HDD by attaching it as a master and setting the existing as
a
>slave.
> The other HDD I would be able to get a hold of and use does not have
>Win XP
>OS on it, it has Win ME. Can you tell me if that would that create a

>software conflict if I tried that? I do know that the existing drive
>is NTFS.
> As to your virus roll suggestion, sorry not that knowledgable....how
>would I
>do that? Thanks again!
Greetings nlee,
The more you post the more your situation points to a hardware issue.
If you blow all the dust out, clean the fans/heatsink etc. and it’s
still a no go, I would again suggest pulling out the Memory stick and
getting it tested, along with the voltages on the power supply prior
to wiping the drive. At this point you have nothing to lose.
I believe what Jupiter was referring to was taking the HD from the
computer with the problem and going to another working computer
(should have WIN XP) and attaching it as a ’slave’ so it could be
accessed and your files copied. I believe your current drive uses NTFS
(New Technology File System) because of the WIN XP. I’m not sure if
the WIN ME uses the NTFS file system or the FAT32 (File Allocation
Table 32) like WIN98SE. This would create a problem for you. Hopefully
both drives are formatted using the same file system.
Remember that NTFS can read a FAT32 slave drive but not the other way
around.

Please let us know how you make out.
Best of luck,
ultra_classic

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[kyle]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

Hello there. I've encountered the same problem. My XP Home Edition
with SP2 is also stuck in an endless loop which started on July 6th. I
tried booting in Safe Mode and all that but have had no luck. I hooked
up an older computer to the internet and searched for a solution,
stumbling upon this forum. I followed the advice below, but I'm
confused about the MBR issue. I used the Setup Boot Disks (It required
six.), and when I got to the screen for the repair I pressed "R". Then
it asked for the administrator's password. I left it blank, but that
was okay. Then I typed "fixmbr" - that was what I was able to gather
from your link below explaining about the MBR. Now the computer is
asking me if I want to write a new MBR. I don't know how to do this.
I'm afriad I'm going to destroy all chances of recovering my computer
if I proceed blindly like this. Please advise me how to proceed.
Should I type "Y" or "N"? If I type "Y", what will be the next step?
Thanks for your advice. Oh, by the way, the link you listed was for XP
Professional. I don't know if that matters, but anyway I couldn't
figure out what I should do next.

- Kyle



Chelsea Wrote:
> Hiya
> As you don't have a Windows XP CD you will only have one way of
> accessing
> the recovery console and that is by using boot disks. Microsoft
> recognise
> that computer builders do not always provide an installation CD and so
> make
> available a set of 3.5 inch diskettes that allow you to get into
> Windows XP.
> This is useless if you don't have a floppy drive and a working PC to
> make
> the boot disks with, but I'll assume you do. You can download a utility
> for
> making the boot disks here
> http://tinyurl.com/7o2bw
> It is very important to choose the right one. So select the utility
> for
> Windows XP Home that corresponds to the service pack you have loaded on
> your
> PC. Once you have created your boot disks-I think there may be five in
> all-Boot your PC with Disk 1 in the A: drive. If your Bios is set to
> boot
> first from the hard disk you will have to change the boot order so that
> the
> A: drive boots first. Eventually you will get to a screen that asks if
> you
> want to install Windows XP or do a repair using the recovery console.
> Select
> to repair using the recovery console. The recovery console will load
> and you
> must enter the administrator's password before it will let you do
> anything.
> If you don't know the administrator's password leave that field empty
> and
> hope that it wasn't set by the system builder. Once that is done you
> need to
> reset the MBR. You can find out how to do that here
> http://tinyurl.com/5tuez
>
> and that hopefully will get Windows XP running once more, if not we'll
> need
> to rethink. Best of luck!
>
> Chelsea


--
kyle

 

[chelsea]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

"kyle" <kyle.1rv31n@pcbanter.net> wrote in message
news:kyle.1rv31n@pcbanter.net...
>
> Hello there. I've encountered the same problem. My XP Home Edition
> with SP2 is also stuck in an endless loop which started on July 6th. I
> tried booting in Safe Mode and all that but have had no luck. I hooked
> up an older computer to the internet and searched for a solution,
> stumbling upon this forum. I followed the advice below, but I'm
> confused about the MBR issue. I used the Setup Boot Disks (It required
> six.), and when I got to the screen for the repair I pressed "R". Then
> it asked for the administrator's password. I left it blank, but that
> was okay. Then I typed "fixmbr" - that was what I was able to gather
> from your link below explaining about the MBR. Now the computer is
> asking me if I want to write a new MBR. I don't know how to do this.
> I'm afriad I'm going to destroy all chances of recovering my computer
> if I proceed blindly like this. Please advise me how to proceed.
> Should I type "Y" or "N"? If I type "Y", what will be the next step?
> Thanks for your advice. Oh, by the way, the link you listed was for XP
> Professional. I don't know if that matters, but anyway I couldn't
> figure out what I should do next.
>
> - Kyle
>
>
>
Hi Kyle never thought about that statement being misleading ie asking if
I want to write a new MBR. Don't worry you don't write the MBR the operating
system does that for you.

Chelsea

 

[chelsea]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

"kyle" <kyle.1rxv1n@pcbanter.net> wrote in message
news:kyle.1rxv1n@pcbanter.net...
>
> I copied the dcpromo.log onto Disk 6 as you advised. I booted up with
> the disks and got to the Recovery Console. I typed the commands as you
> advised. Unfortunately, the computer said it couldn't find the file. I
> double-checked the disk using the other computer. The file dcpromo.log
> definitely exists. I exited, and as before my computer went into its
> loop. And it won't boot up Windows in Safe Mode, either. Oh well. . .
> Looking forward to your reply.
> Kyle
>
>
Hello Kyle,
I am foxed as to why that doesn't work. The dcpromo.log file is normally
installed from within Windows, but as you are unable to get into Windows, I
modified things to use the Recovery Console. If you would be prepared to
persevere with this a little and can face another 10 minutes of tedium with
the recovery console try this. Incidently I just tried this on a laptop
using a USB A drive and can assure you it does work.

In the Recovery Console type the following at the c:\windows prompt

With diskette 6 in the drive type
a:
then type dir-can you see dcpromo.log on the diskette?
Now type
copy dcpromo.log c:\windows\debug

Type c: and return -that takes you back to c:\windows prompt

Finally type
attrib +r c:\windows\debug\dcpromo.log

Type exit

Remove the diskette from the 3.5 inch drive and see what happens when
Windows restarts.

What I am trying to do is plug a vulnerability in the lsass service, which I
think may be crashing everytime you start Windows. This is well known and
causes the infinite loop that you are experiencing. So lets see how it goes.

Chelsea

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

Hello everyone,

Well, I spent the entire weekend trying to get into my hard drive--with no
success. Since I was planning on upgrading my memory anyway, rather than
trying to find a place around here to test the memory stick originally
installed, I bought a new one and installed it. Still the same problem.

I downloaded the installation disks from the MS site and tried to rewrite
the MBR, got a success message. I do not have a full win xp installation
disk so when after installing the setup files, it asked for the win xp
cd....I was out of luck.

I dug around and found an old pc of mine, but it had win me os on it, so
though the system bios recognised the "sick" HDD slaved to the good HDD in
the bios, I could not see it in the Win ME. So I went out and bought the Win
xp home edition upgrade disk and upgraded the HDD from the old pc I had and
slaved the "sick" HDD to the upgraded HDD and installed them both in the
emachine, thinking I could get my files ( I also ran Norton 2005 anti
virus.... it sound nothing).

The emachine boots just fine from the upgraded HDD and I was able to see
the "sick" HDD. BUT I cannot find any files. I went to the prompt and typed
the drive letter to the sick drive and typed DIR. When I type DIR, there are
no windows files, no program files, no doc file names. I ran a search in in
Windows in the sick HDD using file names and it does not find anything. I
think whatever attacked it corrupted everything and wiped out windows. The
funny thing is, this is a 40GB HDD and Windows XP is reading it as a 10 GB.

It doesn't look like I am going to be able to recover my documents...at
least I am more at a loss at this point. I still have not reformatted the
sick drive, so if by some chance someone has any last ditch magic to recover
the data, I am still open to sugggestions.

I do want to thank everyone for the great suggestions and the help. I will
be coming back and posting.
--
nlee788


"Chelsea" wrote:

>
> "kyle" <kyle.1rxv1n@pcbanter.net> wrote in message
> news:kyle.1rxv1n@pcbanter.net...
> >
> > I copied the dcpromo.log onto Disk 6 as you advised. I booted up with
> > the disks and got to the Recovery Console. I typed the commands as you
> > advised. Unfortunately, the computer said it couldn't find the file. I
> > double-checked the disk using the other computer. The file dcpromo.log
> > definitely exists. I exited, and as before my computer went into its
> > loop. And it won't boot up Windows in Safe Mode, either. Oh well. . .
> > Looking forward to your reply.
> > Kyle
> >
> >
> Hello Kyle,
> I am foxed as to why that doesn't work. The dcpromo.log file is normally
> installed from within Windows, but as you are unable to get into Windows, I
> modified things to use the Recovery Console. If you would be prepared to
> persevere with this a little and can face another 10 minutes of tedium with
> the recovery console try this. Incidently I just tried this on a laptop
> using a USB A drive and can assure you it does work.
>
> In the Recovery Console type the following at the c:\windows prompt
>
> With diskette 6 in the drive type
> a:
> then type dir-can you see dcpromo.log on the diskette?
> Now type
> copy dcpromo.log c:\windows\debug
>
> Type c: and return -that takes you back to c:\windows prompt
>
> Finally type
> attrib +r c:\windows\debug\dcpromo.log
>
> Type exit
>
> Remove the diskette from the 3.5 inch drive and see what happens when
> Windows restarts.
>
> What I am trying to do is plug a vulnerability in the lsass service, which I
> think may be crashing everytime you start Windows. This is well known and
> causes the infinite loop that you are experiencing. So lets see how it goes.
>
> Chelsea
>
>
>

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

Hi Greg Ro,

I have been having similar problems to Kyle's. I went to the
www.bootdisk.com site you posted, and I saw a utility called Active NTFS
Reader. Would this possibly let me read and access the files on the HDD I am
having trouble finding my documents on? I have slaved it to another HDD, but
the files are not accessable or readable. Thnaks.
--
nlee788


"Greg Ro" wrote:

> I had all the problems on my emachine.
>
> I fixed it by getting windows 98se bootdisk with fdisk on it.
> www.bootdisk.com
>
> (Note-you may need to change the bios to boot to the floppy first)
> Does not matter if you disk is formated as NTFS-Still works.
>
> Let it boot up.
>
> Type fdisk /mbr
>
> Remove floppy. Restart.
>
> Greg R
>
>
>
>
>
>

 

[Guest]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

On Mon, 11 Jul 2005 08:05:02 -0700, "nlee788"
<nlee788@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote:

>Hi Greg Ro,
>
>I have been having similar problems to Kyle's. I went to the
>www.bootdisk.com site you posted, and I saw a utility called Active NTFS
>Reader. Would this possibly let me read and access the files on the HDD I am
>having trouble finding my documents on? I have slaved it to another HDD, but
>the files are not accessable or readable. Thnaks.

Not sure on that.

Greg Ro

 

[chelsea]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

Hi Nlee
Check that the PC Bios is recognising your hard disk correctly? ie as 40GB

Chelsea

"nlee788" <nlee788@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:66178A27-6E94-4F0B-9844-5B1AFFF0314E@microsoft.com...
> Hello everyone,
>
> Well, I spent the entire weekend trying to get into my hard drive--with no
> success. Since I was planning on upgrading my memory anyway, rather than
> trying to find a place around here to test the memory stick originally
> installed, I bought a new one and installed it. Still the same problem.
>
> I downloaded the installation disks from the MS site and tried to rewrite
> the MBR, got a success message. I do not have a full win xp installation
> disk so when after installing the setup files, it asked for the win xp
> cd....I was out of luck.
>
> I dug around and found an old pc of mine, but it had win me os on it, so
> though the system bios recognised the "sick" HDD slaved to the good HDD in
> the bios, I could not see it in the Win ME. So I went out and bought the
> Win
> xp home edition upgrade disk and upgraded the HDD from the old pc I had
> and
> slaved the "sick" HDD to the upgraded HDD and installed them both in the
> emachine, thinking I could get my files ( I also ran Norton 2005 anti
> virus.... it sound nothing).
>
> The emachine boots just fine from the upgraded HDD and I was able to see
> the "sick" HDD. BUT I cannot find any files. I went to the prompt and
> typed
> the drive letter to the sick drive and typed DIR. When I type DIR, there
> are
> no windows files, no program files, no doc file names. I ran a search in
> in
> Windows in the sick HDD using file names and it does not find anything. I
> think whatever attacked it corrupted everything and wiped out windows.
> The
> funny thing is, this is a 40GB HDD and Windows XP is reading it as a 10
> GB.
>
> It doesn't look like I am going to be able to recover my documents...at
> least I am more at a loss at this point. I still have not reformatted the
> sick drive, so if by some chance someone has any last ditch magic to
> recover
> the data, I am still open to sugggestions.
>
> I do want to thank everyone for the great suggestions and the help. I
> will
> be coming back and posting.
> --
> nlee788
>
>
> "Chelsea" wrote:
>
>>
>> "kyle" <kyle.1rxv1n@pcbanter.net> wrote in message
>> news:kyle.1rxv1n@pcbanter.net...
>> >
>> > I copied the dcpromo.log onto Disk 6 as you advised. I booted up with
>> > the disks and got to the Recovery Console. I typed the commands as you
>> > advised. Unfortunately, the computer said it couldn't find the file.
>> > I
>> > double-checked the disk using the other computer. The file dcpromo.log
>> > definitely exists. I exited, and as before my computer went into its
>> > loop. And it won't boot up Windows in Safe Mode, either. Oh well. . .
>> > Looking forward to your reply.
>> > Kyle
>> >
>> >
>> Hello Kyle,
>> I am foxed as to why that doesn't work. The dcpromo.log file is normally
>> installed from within Windows, but as you are unable to get into Windows,
>> I
>> modified things to use the Recovery Console. If you would be prepared to
>> persevere with this a little and can face another 10 minutes of tedium
>> with
>> the recovery console try this. Incidently I just tried this on a laptop
>> using a USB A drive and can assure you it does work.
>>
>> In the Recovery Console type the following at the c:\windows prompt
>>
>> With diskette 6 in the drive type
>> a:
>> then type dir-can you see dcpromo.log on the diskette?
>> Now type
>> copy dcpromo.log c:\windows\debug
>>
>> Type c: and return -that takes you back to c:\windows prompt
>>
>> Finally type
>> attrib +r c:\windows\debug\dcpromo.log
>>
>> Type exit
>>
>> Remove the diskette from the 3.5 inch drive and see what happens when
>> Windows restarts.
>>
>> What I am trying to do is plug a vulnerability in the lsass service,
>> which I
>> think may be crashing everytime you start Windows. This is well known and
>> causes the infinite loop that you are experiencing. So lets see how it
>> goes.
>>
>> Chelsea
>>
>>
>>

 

[kyle]

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.help_and_support (More info?)

After typing "dir" at the A: prompt, I see dcpromo.log.txt listed as one
of the files. I typed "copy dcpromo.log c:\windows\debug", but once
again it said it can't locate the file. I'm wondering if this is
because on the drive it's being listed as dcpromo.log.txt. I took the
disk and put it in the other computer. I checked the file name, which
is dcpromo.log. Then I checked its properties. It's attribute is
Archive. And its msdos name is dcpromo.log.txt. Should I change my
command line to "copy dcpromo.log.txt c:\windows\debug"? I tried
renaming the file with no success.
-Kyle



Chelsea Wrote:
> "kyle" kyle.1rxv1n@pcbanter.net wrote in message
> news:kyle.1rxv1n@pcbanter.net...-
>
> I copied the dcpromo.log onto Disk 6 as you advised. I booted up
> with
> the disks and got to the Recovery Console. I typed the commands as
> you
> advised. Unfortunately, the computer said it couldn't find the file.
> I
> double-checked the disk using the other computer. The file
> dcpromo.log
> definitely exists. I exited, and as before my computer went into its
> loop. And it won't boot up Windows in Safe Mode, either. Oh well. .
> .
> Looking forward to your reply.
> Kyle
>
> -
> Hello Kyle,
> I am foxed as to why that doesn't work. The dcpromo.log file is
> normally
> installed from within Windows, but as you are unable to get into
> Windows, I
> modified things to use the Recovery Console. If you would be prepared
> to
> persevere with this a little and can face another 10 minutes of tedium
> with
> the recovery console try this. Incidently I just tried this on a
> laptop
> using a USB A drive and can assure you it does work.
>
> In the Recovery Console type the following at the c:\windows prompt
>
> With diskette 6 in the drive type
> a:
> then type dir-can you see dcpromo.log on the diskette?
> Now type
> copy dcpromo.log c:\windows\debug
>
> Type c: and return -that takes you back to c:\windows prompt
>
> Finally type
> attrib +r c:\windows\debug\dcpromo.log
>
> Type exit
>
> Remove the diskette from the 3.5 inch drive and see what happens when
> Windows restarts.
>
> What I am trying to do is plug a vulnerability in the lsass service,
> which I
> think may be crashing everytime you start Windows. This is well known
> and
> causes the infinite loop that you are experiencing. So lets see how it
> goes.
>
> Chelsea


--
kyle