Mac said:
Finally... not an error message: Windows cannot load.... Reload missing or
corrupt file, "windows root\system32\hal.dll" However, does not ask for
installation CD or anything else, just sits on this screen and stares at you.
Had logged out of an interactive game that ties into many servers. PC had
hung and had to end the program before it would release. Left the PC it on
the desktop, appeared to be fine. Came back to blank screen with this
message. Cannot boot into safe mode of any type. Don't know of any way to
bypass this OS to get to a command prompt the way you could w/prior versions
of Windows. Can get into setup and the PC can still see the HD. Still
thinking this could be a virus, but can't get to a screen where I can do
anything.
Worst thing is - installation CD and software key are missing. And it was
purchased from an OEM retailer.
:
One possible cause of your error message is a damaged or missing
boot.ini file.
That can be fixed fairly simply by booting to the Windows XP Recovery
Console and entering the following command:
BOOTCFG /REBUILD
If you do not have the original Windows XP Installation CD to boot
from then you can download a set of diskette images and create a 6
diskette boot set from
http://support.microsoft.com?kbid=310994
This will not fix all instances of your error message, but it is one
of the more common causes of it and it is relatively simple to use.
If the problem persists then we will have to explore other methods of
fixing the problem.
p.s. you really need to find that Windows XP OEM install CD. The
Product Key can be retrieved from your computer once it has been fixed
and you can boot into Windows XP again.
Good luck
Ron Martell Duncan B.C. Canada
--
Microsoft MVP
On-Line Help Computer Service
http://onlinehelp.bc.ca
In memory of a dear friend Alex Nichol MVP
http://aumha.org/alex.htm