Need Computer Help...

[REDRUM]

It died last week.

I get a black screen that says file corrupt or missing. insert CD to start repair.

I tried the re-install cd and that wont even work.
Is my mother board dead?
What do they cost?

What are my options?


Thanks

 

[superdave1984]

What OS do you have? Is this a pre-built PC or custom? Do you have a full version of your OS or a restore CD? Usually a black screen is a driver problem. Have you tried booting to safe mode? Do this by rebooting and as soon as you hear anything start tapping the F8 key about once a second until it either gives you a keyboard error or brings you to a screen with options for booting. First try "Last known good" and if that doesn't work try "safe mode". If safe mode works, it's your video driver. Find a new driver for it and install it in safe mode.

 

[Shran]

Does it say "ntldr is missing or corrupt?" or something to that effect?

If so, http://tinyempire.com/notes/ntldrismissing.htm will give you a good place to start.

If that doesn't work, ...reinstall Windows.

 

[Mark_88]

If you get a black screen with an error message your MoBo isn't dead...but your operating system is lacking something...

Like the above posts...need more information to be able to offer any suggestions...try Safe Mode if you have that option...and if you've recently upgraded the OS with a Service Pack or installed new hardware that could be the problem...

 

[REDRUM]

It's a Dell Dimension 4400 running XP, nothing custom. I don't even get the option of safe mode. I haven't installed anything lately (software or hardware). The CD says re-installation.

It says WINDOWS/SYSTEM32/CONFIG missing or corrupt, or something like that.

I'll try your F8 idea.

 

[smokey]

try a repair install first this way you will not lose any data here is a link to the instructions for that,
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/307545
If this doesn't work PM me and I will send you dells install insturctions.

 

[One Sick Puppy]

If your computer just came up with that error message all of a sudden, it may have a faulty hard drive, ram or mainboard.