Start up loop

[andrew299]

My friends PC has gone wrong!!!
On start up the 'safe mode' normal mode menu appears. Selecting normal from the list carries on the boot and then returns the system back to the 'safe mode' ' normal mode' menu. I have tried all the options available in this menu and it always loops back. There is no way into windows XP at all. If I put the windows disk into the machine would this at least allow windows to boot in safe mode so I can check things?
I have looked at other sites and they seem to hint in similar cases to the video card - has any one else heard of this. I can get into setup (F1 or F2 whichever).
System recovery does nothing. I hesitate to wipe the system until I have explored all options as will lose all personal files. Would I be able to boot from the CD and recover from there?

Any help appreciated

Andrew

It may have hit every branch on its way out of the ugly tree, but hey! It works. (but don't quote me on that)

 

[snootalope]

Would I be able to boot from the CD and recover from there?"

Yeah, you could try the Repair option of setup. It's never done a damn thing for me cause I always end up reinstalling, but it's worth a try for you isn't it?!?!

Snoots

 

[gpalmer711]

Follow the instructions in

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;315341

this will reinstall the core set of Windows XP Files but will leave your Data and most settings intact.

You will need to spend some time at the Windows Update site afterwards.

Greg Palmer
Free Software for Adminstrators

http://www.palmersoft.co.uk

 

[linney]

It does sound a bit like the registry is corrupt. If you don't want to run the repair installation of XP you have this alternative approach.

HOW TO: Install and Use the Recovery Console for Windows XP (Q307654)

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q307/6/54.asp

An easy to follow recovery console description when unable to start computer due to corrupt registry.

http://www.digitalwebcast.com/2002/03_mar/tutorials/cw_boot_toot.htm

The above is a layman's version of Q307545 in simple language.

307545 - How to Recover from a Corrupted Registry That Prevents Windows XP from Starting

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;307545&FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH