Repairing XP for HP devices

[Vernon CThomas]

I have worked with HP to uncover a problem with all of my HP devices ( they
got flaky and HP techs made the problem worse and worse until they won't
install at all ). I have been advised to re-install Windows XP but 1) my
Dell-supplied reinstall disc has no key info; 2) I am on SP2 with countless
security updates since original; etc., etc. My only problem is with the
HP-related files and drivers. Is there some method to do a repair without
regressing? It would take days upon days to get this system back if I
uninstall and attempt to reinstall from scratch.

 

[Alias]

I have worked with HP to uncover a problem with all of my HP devices ( they
got flaky and HP techs made the problem worse and worse until they won't
install at all ). I have been advised to re-install Windows XP but 1) my
Dell-supplied reinstall disc has no key info;

Not necessary. It will install without one.

2) I am on SP2 with countless

security updates since original; etc., etc. My only problem is with the
HP-related files and drivers. Is there some method to do a repair without
regressing? It would take days upon days to get this system back if I
uninstall and attempt to reinstall from scratch.

I would uninstall all drivers for your HP stuff and the corresponding
software, turn off the computer, remove the HP devices and install the
HP devices all over again.

Alias

 

[Bruce Chambers]

I have worked with HP to uncover a problem with all of my HP devices ( they
got flaky and HP techs made the problem worse and worse until they won't
install at all ).

What "HP devices?" Be specific.

And "flaky" in meaningless in the context of technical issues. What
specific problems are you experiencing with each specific device?

I have been advised to re-install Windows XP ....

Which only means you've stumped the lowest levels of HP's support, and
they're throwing out desperation ideas, trying to get rid of you. When
they suggest this, insist on speaking to a second-tier technician or a
supervisor who can at least spell "PC."

.... but 1) my
Dell-supplied reinstall disc has no key info;

The Windows 25-character Product Key (required to perform the
installation) is not on the installation CD in any way, shape, or form.
It is stored on the CD packaging on a bright orange sticker that says
"Do not lose this number." If it was an OEM (factory installed)
license, it's stored on a label that the PC manufacturer affixed to the
exterior of the PC case, or on the bottom of a laptop.

2) .... My only problem is with the
HP-related files and drivers. Is there some method to do a repair without
regressing?

Very probably. But, as I've indicated above, no one can possibly begin
to help you if you won't provided specifics.



--

Bruce Chambers

Help us help you:


http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx/kb/555375

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~ Denis Diderot

 

[Vernon CThomas]

Responses somewhat in order....
HP 3970 ScanJet, HP C5280 A-I-1 & HP L7780 A-I-1... at first it was just
that the 7780 wouldn't scan but numerous uninstall/reinstalls plus registry
cleaning, etc. by HP techs left it such that none of them will now install.
There is no error message... but in the end, the system does not recognise
any HP device being connected. ( The Device Manager lists it as an "Unknown"
device type ).
HP sent me to a Level 2 tech but he couldn't find anything and, since my
wife's computer shares the printer it works fine there, they are suggesting
that Windows lost or has a corrupted file(s).
Found the Product Key on the bottom ( thanks! )... didn't think to look
there. The re-install disc that I have is, I suspect, the one that came with
my older desktop PC. I can't find another disc around.