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5829
March 3rd, 2008 22:00
Errors, Need help repairing or reformatting
I'm using Windows XP Media Center on a Dimension 8400 and I receive an error on startup: "missing or corrupt: \windows\system32\config\system". I tried to startup with the Dell reinstallation DVD but it won't recognize it. I checked the BIOS and it's setup correctly. Next I tried an old XP upgrade disk I had laying around. It did recognize it. I managed to get into the "welcome to setup" screen but my keyboard won't work once I get there! I'm stuck and I'm wondering if anyone has any ideas. THANKS!
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mombodog
2 Intern
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12.7K Posts
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March 4th, 2008 02:00
Run the Dell diagnostics extended tests to be sure the hard drive has not died or is failing on you, if it is OK then do the following in the order given
1. Run chkdsk as described in this article
http://kb.wisc.edu/helpdesk/page.php?id=5097
see if it will boot after doing this. If it does boot successfully, do a disk defrag. If no boot, go to #2
2. Follow these instructions carefully
http://kb.wisc.edu/helpdesk/page.php?id=5097
mombodog
2 Intern
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12.7K Posts
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March 4th, 2008 20:00
Be sure to do your windows updates.
beachhead2
3 Posts
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March 4th, 2008 20:00
Thank you, mombodog! I appreciate your reply. For the record, I ended up using another method but I want you to know that I appreciate your help nonetheless. I began searching for the Dell diagnostics you mentioned and I immediately saw a link to instructions for system restore (Ctrl F11 at startup). I performed the system restore (there was nothing on my hard drive that I needed). Thanks again!
beachhead2
3 Posts
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March 4th, 2008 21:00
Thank you, yes. There are many!