Re: XP PRO repair questions

From: Colin Cogle (MasterNoSpamColinIH8SpamX_at_SpamBad.SpamSuxearthlink.net)
Date: 08/08/04 

Date: Sun, 08 Aug 2004 04:33:27 -0400

gem4353 wrote:

> Hi,
>
> I'm having problems with XP Pro. System is about 2 years old purchased with
> XP Pro. since last week having random problems with system locking up, no
> response to keyboard, mouse, power button, anything. Also random changes in
> Icons. Outlook is not cooperating and some programs just don't work anymore.
>
> Have defragged, virus scanned, spyware, etc. multiple times can't find
> problems. Ran hardware diagnostics and no hardware problems showing up.
>
> I've tried restoring to older restore points, but the problems still exist.
> Now unable to install office updates.
>
> I moved since I bought the PC and can no longer find the recovery CD and
> original XP CD that came with PC. Called distributor said they can't help,
> have to buy new copy of XP and reinstall.
>
> My question is - since I can't find the original OS CD is there anything I
> can do to try and repair it. Or am I at the point where I should just save
> all docs, bite the bullet and go buy a new copy, format and do a clean
> install?
>
> Thank you,
>
> Gem

Your system may have a hidden recovery partition. Check out your disk
in Disk Management and see if it's there. It usually won't have a drive
letter so you can't mess around with it. When you boot up, you can
likely press a key to access the recovery software. For example, I have
an HP Pavilion elsewhere in the house. The recovery partition can be
accessed on boot by pressing F10, and it has the option for a
non-destructive recovery (repair installation) or destructive recovery
(format and clean install). See if your computer does.

If not, you may actually have some hardware problems. Try downloading
and running Memtest86 to check your RAM; it can detect failing RAM long
before you or any other program can. If it returns a ton of errors,
it's time for a new stick (maybe two; more is better anyway).

Download Motherboard Monitor 5 to check your power supply voltages;
erratic voltages can cause errors, lockups and reboots. While we're on
the subject, get a surge supressor for your computer; a UPS is better.
Surges, spikes and brownouts can wreak havoc with your computer. 

--
Colin