Your particular error message is indicative of a bad
CD burn and /or a corrupt file image. To correct
the problem, use an authentic, original, Microsoft Windows
XP installation CD. If that's what you have, then get a
replacement.
How to Replace Lost, Broken, or Missing Microsoft Software or Hardware
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;[ln];326246
Clean Install Windows XP
http://michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html
[Courtesy of Michael Stevens, MS-MVP]
--
Carey Frisch
Microsoft MVP
Windows XP - Shell/User
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
| Tried to upgrade 98 to XP Pro. Message: Synyax error in
| manifest or policy file. C:\$WIN_NT$~LS\1386\asms.
| Also, A component does not match the verification
| information present in the component manifest. And so on.
| What's going on??