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Windows not working

  • 14-04-2009 10:43pm
    #1
    Hootie
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 162 ✭✭


    Have an IBM thinkpad that had genuine windows xp, the laptop now giving error loading operating system on bootup. What can I do for all the info or is it lost forever. I know I need to reinstall windows but I have no backup disk or anything. How do i go about fixing this? Not very good at all this so any information appreciated.


Comments

  • #2
    Kevster
    Closed Accounts Posts: 2,980 ✭✭✭Kevster


    Hi,

    All of your private info should still be there, and you can install a fresh copy of windows without overwriting your own stuff. Insert the Windows CD while the laptop starts up and you'll be taken to the installation screen series.

    Alternatively, have you tried to enter safe mode? I think you get to it by pressing 'F8' at some point during boot-up.

    Kevin


  • #3
    Hootie
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 162 ✭✭Hootie


    I tried pressing F8 while booting but did nothing, tried the other function keys but it just locked me out, it didn't allow me to boot in safe mode. Will have to get a boot disk of windows and reinstall.


  • #4
    dade
    Closed Accounts Posts: 1,178 ✭✭✭dade


    what's the error message you're getting?


  • #5
    [Deleted User]
    Posts: 0 ✭ [Deleted User]


    If the error is indeed "Error loading operating system" this is generated by the MBR, it's quite possible that the partition table is damaged or the hard disk is dying.


  • #6
    furryone
    Closed Accounts Posts: 6 ✭furryone


    Sounds like karsini is on the money here.If I were you I'd stop trying to get it to work and get into recovery mode here.If you're handy take the hard drive out and i dont want to scare you but if the hard drive is dying it wont be long before it just wont work.Transfer the drive into an external caddy and plug it into another pc and back it all up.Alternatively you could get Hirens boot cd and boot the laptop of the cd and you'll be able to view whats on the drive to see if the partition is in good order.If it is in good order again back it all up onto an exteranl usb drive.Anytime i come across this problem doin the day to day its best to do the above.Hope this helps.


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