Windows won't load.

[karenmac60]

Ok, my friend's computer will not start - when he puts it on windows starts to load but then goes to a diagnostic type screen offering him options of how to start (safe mode, last good configuration etc) but whichever one he clicks on it just ends up back at this screen. He's got windows XP and some no name laptop (looks similar to ASUS eee). He also does not have any backup discs or a windows disc. Is there any way of getting back into his computer and /or rescuing what he has saved on it???

[AlBags]

Hi
Does he know if it's pre-installed "branded"version of Windows (like Dell would install)
You are screwed with the Safe mode start, I assume, because you will probably not get far enough to select it!?
You need an XP disc .. hopefully the correct one ... first!
XP Home .. Pro .. ? Bios will have to be set to boot from the CD/DVD Rom/Rw drive.

Try disconnecting all peripherals for a start (especially USB stuff) and re-trying..

Last resort is removing HDD and attaching to another PC as a slave drive to retrieve stuff. That's presuming the HDD is not naffed : /

[Answerprancer]

Was your friend's computer left switched on most of the time and just before this happened, had it been off for a while?

[AlBags]

More importantly .. What was done or been changed just before the problem?

[karenmac60]

What he was doing with it before, I have no idea - all I know is it was in his bag and he'd been away for a few days, presumably using it on and off, but storing it in his bag in between times and I think he only uses it for the internet. He doesn't have the original disc, could any disc with the same version be used or does the product key have to match?

[Answerprancer]

Did it BSOD ? (blue screen of death)

[karenmac60]

No blue screen, it just starts as normal and then gets stuck in a loop with the diagnotstic screen

[ChuckFickens]

"could any disc with the same version be used or does the product key have to match? "

Any wndows disk of the correct version can be used, just use the product key on the sticker on the laptop.

[karenmac60]

Brilliant - I have one :) Thanks everyone x

[AlBags]

Good luck Karen .. will probably need it.
Brush up on restoring files from OS disc to the Windows installation.
Removed hardware or USB problems are popular causes of this type of problem.

[karenmac60]

I was going to try and sort this out tonight, but it turns out my pal has taken it to a repair place, so I can sit back and put my feet up :) Thanks for the help though, it's good to know these things in case I need them in future!

[AlBags]

You mean I spent all that time using my grey matter, and typing .. only to be told it's gone to the shop!? : )
Take a spanking (again)

[karenmac60]

Tell me about it! I spent hours last night trawling the internet for a solution! Some people are just so ungrateful! :) But I realise you went to a lot of time and effort and I was a bad, bad girl, so I'll take my spanking like a minx ;)

[AlBags]

Lucky you are spliced .. and I wasn't in Scotland : )

[karenmac60]

Why lucky...? ;)

[AlBags]

Well .. err .. I have to assume you are .. you sound lucky and pretty happy ... but I don't care much for doorstep partner disputes : )

[karenmac60]

I really shouldn't drink on a school night! :0

[AlBags]

What time is your bus in the morning then? : )

[karenmac60]

How long will it take you to give your spanking arm a good work out? ;)

[AlBags]

Naughty girl .. about 20min tonight. 30 when I don't have spanking on my mind.

[karenmac60]

Ya durty wee basturt ye ;)