Problems applying XP SP1a

[Ben]

While all other updates give me no problems, for some
reason, windows XP service pack 1a does not apply
successfully. Originally, I used the automated windows
update feature - but it kept on telling me that the
service pack hadn't been installed after I had installed
it. I then downloaded the full package, and ran
the /update/update.exe file - with nothing happening (the
program was briefly loaded into memory (about 3/4 sec),
before it was unloaded.

There were no error messages at all - the pack just
didn't install (the system registry values tracking the
service packs were not changed).

Any insight? How do I force the service pack to install?

Thanks,
Ben

- my system is a HP Pavilion P4 2.4GHz 500MB memory - so
it doesn't seem that there would be any system
limitations.

 

[Jupiter Jones [MVP]]

Ben;
First see this:
http://www.hp.com/cposupport/personal_computing/support_doc/bph07866.html#P1_65

Try installing Windows XP Service Pack 1a this way:
***PRINT THIS LIST***
Do not use Express Installation.
You can order Service Pack 1a CD from:
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/downloads/servicepacks/sp1/ordercd.asp
http://www.microsoft.com/uk/windowsxp/servicepacks/sp1.asp
Or:
Download the Network Installation from here: (be sure to select the
correct language)
Also select "Windows XP Professional and Home Edition" Do NOT select
64 bit.
http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/pro/downloads/servicepacks/sp1/
DSL takes about 20 minutes, if you do not have high speed access, get
a friend to D/L SP1a for you.
Then burn it to a CD and keep for the future.
It is best to resolve current issues BEFORE installing SP1a.
First check to make sure you have all updated drivers.
You should have at least 2gb free space (Less than half that is needed
for SP1a, but if you are that close, you need to start looking for
ways to free space or add another hard drive.)
Check with computer manufacturer to insure compatibility with SP1,
there are a few models where the company has said wait while the
manufacturer implements a fix.
Compaq and HP are 2 that I know of.
If you have HP or Compaq computer contact them before installing SP1a:
http://www.hp.com/cposupport/personal_computing/support_doc/bph07866.html#P1_65
There may still be issues with the HP/Compaq fix, so you may want to
wait
Run Ad-Aware (free version) or Spybot to check for spyware:
http://www.lavasoft.de/ (Update if you already have it)
Or
http://spybot.eon.net.au/ (Update if you already have it)
If you ever installed XP-Antispy, it disables a dll SP1a needs, so
just in case, Start - Run and run
regsvr32 licdll.dll
regsvr32 regwiz.dll
Run chkdsk to check file system.
Perform Disk Cleanup (all boxes checked except Compress old files)
Perform Disk Defragmentation.
Ensure correct date and time.
Disconnect all peripherals (camera, scanner, printer etc)
When you are ready:
Create a Restore Point in System Restore
Go to MSCONFIG, make note of what is checked in Start-Up tab then
uncheck all in Start-up tab.
Reboot the computer
Login as an Administrator, disable ALL unnecessary applications
including antivirus.
Do NOT touch any keys during the process unless necessary.
Install SP1a by double clicking on it, follow the prompts.
After SP1a install is completed, reboot, defrag.
Go back to MSCONFIG and recheck what you unchecked.

Then:
Be sure to check for other Critical Updates when finished.

 

[Ben]

Thanks, I'll give 'er a go!

- Ben