Re: windows lost when adding new memory
- From: Bruce Chambers <bruce_a_chambers@xxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Fri, 01 Apr 2005 11:58:14 -0700
ICTag wrote:
Hi,
When I added new memory to my XP Home pc the windows boot failed with the error message:
the following file is missing \windows system32/config system
(note the missing drive prefixing the directory path)
After 2 weeks of tryng to recover (including upgrading to xp pro, slipstream cds....) I finally gave up and used the initial oem cd which formated the disk and put everything back in its original state.
This would have been easier, I should have thought:
How to Recover from a Corrupted Registry that Prevents Windows XP from Starting http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;307545
Once you've recovered, you might want to look here, as well:
How to Troubleshoot Registry Corruption Issues http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;822705
I bought a new memory chip and now I'd like to try and add this new memory but I'm worried that the same thing will happen again.
My question:
1. Is a normal backup sufficient to recover a non-bootable pc or does this not backup the mbr etc?
It depends upon what you call a normal backup. Many people backup data files only, not the entire system. If you perform a full system backup, and have an independently bootable means of restoring said backup, then you should be OK. One way to ensure this is to use hard drive imaging software rather than a standard backup application.
2. How can adding new (possibly defective) RAM make windows forget how to boot? (I seem to remember reading about this in another forum but I can't find this now)
Very easily, if the new RAM module is either defective or incompatible. Simply removing an incompatible RAM module is usually enough to return the system to a usable state, but a defective module can easily cause immediate and severe registry corruption.
It is absolutely essential that any new RAM module(s) be fully compatible with both the motherboard and/or any other RAM module(s)already in the system. Additionally, there are sometimes jumper switches on older motherboards that need to be reset for new RAM configurations. Consult your motherboard's manual or the manufacturer's web site for specific instructions and compatibility requirements.
If you cannot lay your hands upon the computer's manual and the manufacturer doesn't provide a support web site, you can use these utilities to help determine the correct type of RAM needed:
SiSoft's Sandra http://www.sisoftware.co.uk/index.php?dir=&location=sware_dl&lang=en
Belarc Advisor http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html
Lavalys' Everest Home http://www.lavalys.com/products/overview.php?pid=1&lang=en
Also, Crucial Memory's web site (www.crucial.com) has a database to help to find the right RAM for your specific make and model computer and/or motherboard.
--
Bruce Chambers
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