Spyware and lots of missing pieces!

[mamafowler]

Hi, looking for some help with my little computer situation here. I'll start at the beginning, about a week ago, I discovered that my 12 year old son discovered....um..internet ladies. I ran EasyCleaner, and CCleaner and now lots and lots of stuff has gone very wrong. My monitor is blinking constantly, my speakers have quit working, and my computer no longer recognizes my cd-rom. Not even sure where to start, so ANY input would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks guys, in advance!

ps. I ran superanitspyware and a message came up and said "Error 1719. The Windows installer service could not be accessed. this can occur if you are running in safe mode, or if the windows installer is not correctly installed. Contact your support personnel for assistance.

Now, I don't even know HOW to run things in safe mode, so I seriously doubt that is the problem. Bleh.

[mommalina]

Hi, Mamaflower! Welcome .. :)

The gurus will be along soon, I'm sure. Early tomorrow, if not tonight. I was
posting my own security question, when I noticed yours.

No computers when I raised my sons, thank God. I was spared their discovering
the ladies of cyberspace. My empathy .. ;)

Hang in there. You'll get some help soon.



Lina

[mamafowler]

QUOTE=Jack Hackett;70784]If you ran the 'Issues' option of CCleaner that is a registry cleaner.
I assume you let it make a back up of the registry before making the changes... if you did, restore the registry using the saved backup .reg file that CCleaner created.[/QUOTE]


Hey, where can I find that particular file? I'm telling ya, things aren't looking good in my computer these days. And files aren't where they used to be, and that's only if they still exist! I tried a system restore but there were no dates available (all erased I guess). I can't even re-install my printer/speakers/etc b/c when i put a disc in **poof** my computer knows nothing about it. Loving the quickness to help me! I've tried other sites and I'm STILL waiting. So thanks again in a BIG HUGE MY-FAMILY-REALLY-NEEDS-THEIR-COMPUTER-BACK kinda way :faint:

[TJolly]

Hi mamafowler

Do you have a winXP disc?

[kelly]

I think TJ is looking to do an XP repair. Here's a link that someone else on this forum posted at one time: http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

Read the section titled XP Repair Install.

[kelly]

I'm hoping that there is something not working properly in Windows that is preventing use of the CD drive. If we can boot to the CD, then we can do an XP Repair.

If not, the next step is to look at the BIOS to see if the motherboard is seeing the CD drive.

[mylanta]

When you cannot install programs, then you cannot use Superantispyware or anything else you install, and that is the prime time to use online scans which are superior anyway in these matters.
I would suggest two before trying XP repair and note they must be accessed in IE not any other browser so as to allow active "X" use.
www.eset.com (see online scanner and make sure you check "remove problems")
www.ewido.net

[mamafowler]

hey, I'm trying to figure out what to do first, or at all..I'm scared to try all this stuff b/c the thing barely works as it is and I am aparently a complete idiot and gutted my effin' computer without even knowing that I did so! I don't have a xp disc. I did do the duplicate files thing in the EasyCleaner but I was just so desperate to get rid of all of the trash that was in there from those websites, I thought it was a good idea. So this is what I got for "thinking" huh? I am running the eset online scanner and so far it has found nothing. thanks.:(

[mamafowler]

ok, ran the eset scanner and it found 1 threat. VBS/trojandownloader.small.dy trojan. unable to clean, deleted. But that is all that it says. Oh and thanks sooooo super much to Rich-M for bringing me here! I have a good feeling about this place.

btw, what's next?

[kelly]

What to do next? Well doing an XP repair has been suggested. If I were you, I'd borrow a Windows XP CD from someone and do the repair as was suggested earlier.

[mylanta]

hey, I'm trying to figure out what to do first, or at all..I'm scared to try all this stuff b/c the thing barely works as it is and I am aparently a complete idiot and gutted my effin' computer without even knowing that I did so! I don't have a xp disc. I did do the duplicate files thing in the EasyCleaner but I was just so desperate to get rid of all of the trash that was in there from those websites, I thought it was a good idea. So this is what I got for "thinking" huh? I am running the eset online scanner and so far it has found nothing. thanks.:(


OK you don't have an XP disk, well I look at that as you have saved someone else $100 for too long...now if you want to fix it, thank goodness stores still sell them. You cannot repair the OS without them, nor can you reinstall if you have to which is quite likely without one. Let's not feel sorry for ourself, let's just take a positive attitude, move forward to a brave new day and fix the thing!
An upgrade XP cd would do just fine for $99. If you can summon up the courage, you can buy one on ebay for $60 or simply go to a repair shop if you are too intimidated.

[mamafowler]

well, with that being said, anyone got a spare Windows XP disc? lol. I guess it's on to my next adventure....starting all over again! But this time, I don't think I'll be running the "duplicates" part of EasyCleaner (:0})

[mylanta]

well, with that being said, anyone got a spare Windows XP disc? lol. I guess it's on to my next adventure....starting all over again! But this time, I don't think I'll be running the "duplicates" part of EasyCleaner (:0})

You cannot borrow a disk to reinstall Windows as it will not activate but one copy per one license. Now if you have a branded pc, and you have told us nothing about your hardware (except that it isn't working well) so we cannot even hazard a guess,you can buy restore cd's for about $20 shipped but they will remove everything on hard drive first so you need to backup anything of any importance before using. You may also have a restore partition on your hard drive that will restore as new when you first got it, but again I could not tell you how to access it because I don't know the brand name of pc you have.
The more you tell us early on, the more you save time.

[Scotty]

Im not sure if this a an agreement with you Jack, but OEM versions dont seem to work on other pc's. I tried a repair on a mates Presario 2009 with my disc from my Presario 1619.
It wouldnt run because they were different models.

Would the MS Recovery Console not repair Windows here?

Maybe the pc in question has a Recovery Partition, hence the lack of an XP disc.

Just a couple of thoughts.

[kern]

mamaf,
As Rich suggests, providing us with more info about your pc might be helpful.

Rob

[mommalina]

mamaf,
As Rich suggests, providing us with more info about your pc might be helpful.

Rob

This must be a frustrating/confusing time for Mamaflower. :confused:
To find her computer's model number and specifications, perhaps we
should suggest that she take one or more of these actions:

- look for her original invoice and other papers which came with the
computer (they may list her computer's specifications)

- run Belarc Advisor (if the computer is up to it)
http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html

- run Everest Free Edition (again, if computer is up to it)
http://www.majorgeeks.com/download4181.html




Lina

[mamafowler]

:eek:ok guys, i ran the belarc thingy and copied what it gave me...maybe you can make heads or tails of this stuff!!!! Thanks.


Computer Profile Summary
Computer Name: Pavilion (in MSHOME)
Profile Date: Monday, February 04, 2008 7:59:52 PM
Advisor Version: 7.2v
Windows Logon: Owner


Click here for Belarc's System Management products, for large and small companies.

Operating System System Model
Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 2 (build 2600) xxxxxxxx
System Serial Number: xxxxxxxxx
Processor a Main Circuit Board b
467 megahertz Intel Celeron
32 kilobyte primary memory cache
128 kilobyte secondary memory cache Board: Trigem Computer, Inc. Cognac
BIOS: Phoenix Technologies LTD 1.04 09/04/99
Drives Memory Modules c,d
8.43 Gigabytes Usable Hard Drive Capacity
2.13 Gigabytes Hard Drive Free Space

SAMSUNG CD-ROM SC-140
3.5" format removeable media [Floppy drive]

ST38421A [Hard drive] (8.45 GB) -- drive 0, s/n xxxxxx, rev 6.01, SMART Status: Healthy 256 Megabytes Installed Memory
Local Drive Volumes

c: (FAT32 on drive 0) 8.43 GB 2.13 GB free

Network Drives
None detected
Users (mouse over user name for details) Printers
local user accounts last logon
Owner 2/2/2008 9:58:23 PM (admin)
local system accounts
Administrator never (admin)
Guest never
HelpAssistant never
SUPPORT_388945a0 never


Marks a disabled account; Marks a locked account HP OfficeJet V40 on DOT4_001
Lexmark 640 Series on USB001

Controllers Display
Standard floppy disk controller
Intel(r) 82801AB Bus Master IDE Controller
Primary IDE Channel [Controller]
Secondary IDE Channel [Controller] Intel(r) 82810 Graphics Controller [Display adapter]
NVIDIA GeForce2 MX/MX 400 [Display adapter]
Default Monitor
Mitsubishi DPoint SB70 [Monitor] (16.1"vis, s/n 3156142YA, January 2003)
Bus Adapters Multimedia
Intel(r) 82801AB USB Universal Host Controller Creative AudioPCI (ES1371,ES1373) (WDM)
Intel(r) 82801AB AC'97 Audio Controller
MPU-401 Compatible MIDI Device
Standard Game Port
Communications Other Devices

Realtek RTL8139 Family PCI Fast Ethernet NIC
primary

Networking Dns Servers:
HID-compliant consumer control device (2x)
HID-compliant device
USB Human Interface Device (2x)
Kodak DC200 Digital Camera
Microsoft USB Wireless MultiMedia Keyboard (IntelliType Pro)
Standard 101/102-Key or Microsoft Natural PS/2 Keyboard
HID-compliant mouse
PS/2 Compatible Mouse
USB Composite Device
USB Printing Support
USB Root Hub
Virus Protection [Back to Top]
No details available
Missing Microsoft Security Hotfixes [Back to Top]
These required security hotfixes (using the 01/08/2008 Microsoft Security Bulletin Summary) were not found installed. Note: CIS benchmarks require that Critical and Important severity security hotfixes must be installed.
KB873339 - Important (details...)
KB885835 - Important (details...)
KB888302 - Important (details...)
KB890046 - Moderate (details...)
KB890859 - Important (details...)
KB893756 - Important (details...)
KB896358 - Critical (details...)
KB896423 - Critical (details...)
KB896428 - Moderate (details...)
KB899587 - Moderate (details...)
KB899591 - Moderate (details...)
KB900725 - Important (details...)
KB901017 - Important (details...)
KB901214 - Critical (details...)
KB902400 - Important (details...)
KB905414 - Moderate (details...)
KB905749 - Important (details...)
KB908519 - Critical (details...)
KB908531 - Critical (details...)
KB911280 - Important (details...)
KB911562 - Critical (details...)
KB911927 - Important (details...)
KB913580 - Low (details...)
KB914388 - Critical (details...)
KB914389 - Important (details...)
KB919007 - Important (details...)
KB920683 - Critical (details...)
KB920685 - Moderate (details...)
KB922819 - Low (details...)
KB923191 - Critical (details...)
KB923414 - Important (details...)
KB924496 - Moderate (details...)
Q918118 - Important (details...)
Q920213 - Critical (details...)
Q921503 - Critical (details...)
Q923980 - Important (details...)
Q924270 - Low (details...)
Q924667 - Important (details...)
Q925398 - Critical (details...)
Q925902 - Critical (details...)
Q926255 - Important (details...)
Q926436 - Important (details...)
Q927779 - Critical (details...)
Q927802 - Important (details...)
Q928255 - Important (details...)
Q928843 - Critical (details...)
Q929123 - Important (details...)
Q930178 - Critical (details...)
Q931261 - Critical (details...)
Q931784 - Important (details...)
Q932168 - Critical (details...)
Q933729 - Important (details...)
Q935839 - Critical (details...)
Q935840 - Critical (details...)
Q936021 - Critical (details...)
Q936181 - Critical (details...)
Q938127 - Critical (details...)
Q938829 - Critical (details...)
Q941202 - Critical (details...)
Q941568 - Critical (details...)
Q941644 - Critical (details...)
Q942615 - Critical (details...)
Q943460 - Critical (details...)
Q943485 - Important (details...)
Q944653 - Important (details...)

Installed Microsoft Hotfixes [Back to Top]
CAPICOM
KB931906 on 9/1/2007 (details...)
Internet Explorer 6
SP1
KB918439-IE6SP1-20060530.145346 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB918899-IE6SP1-20060725.123917 on 9/1/2007 (details...)
KB925486-IE6SP1-20060918.120000 on 9/1/2007 (details...)
Internet Explorer
SP2 (SP2)
WGA
SP0
KB892130 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
Windows Media Player 8
KB917734_WMP8 (details...)
SP0
KB917734_WMP8 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
Windows Media Player
SP0
KB911564 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
Windows XP
SP0
KB904706 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
SP2
KB835409 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB835732 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB842773 on 4/6/2007 (details...)
KB905495 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB914798 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
SP3
KB873339 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB885835 on 8/27/2007 (details...) Reinstall!
KB885836 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB888302 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB890046 on 9/1/2007 (details...)
KB890859 on 8/27/2007 (details...) Reinstall!
KB891781 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB893756 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB893803V2 on 4/6/2007 (details...)
KB896358 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB896423 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB896424 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB896428 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB898461 on 4/6/2007 (details...)
KB899587 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB899591 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB900725 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB901017 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB901214 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB902400 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB905414 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB905749 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB908519 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB908531 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB910437 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB911280 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB911562 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
Windows XP
SP3 (continued)
KB911927 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB912919 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB913580 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB914388 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB914389 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB917344 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB917422 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB917953 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB919007 on 9/1/2007 (details...)
KB920670 on 9/1/2007 (details...)
KB920683 on 9/1/2007 (details...)
KB920685 on 9/1/2007 (details...)
KB921398 on 9/1/2007 (details...)
KB921883 on 8/27/2007 (details...)
KB922616 on 9/1/2007 (details...)
KB922819 on 9/1/2007 (details...)
KB923191 on 9/1/2007 (details...)
KB923414 on 9/1/2007 (details...)
KB924191 on 9/1/2007 (details...)
KB924496 on 9/1/2007 (details...)



Click here to see all available Microsoft security hotfixes for this computer.

Marks a security hotfix (using the 01/08/2008 Microsoft Security Bulletin Summary)
Marks a security hotFix that fails verification (a security vulnerability)
Marks a hotfix that verifies correctly
Marks a hotfix that fails verification (note that failing hotfixes need to be reinstalled)
Unmarked hotfixes lack the data to allow verification


Click here for Belarc's System Management products, for large and small companies.

Software Licenses [Back to Top]

Belarc - Advisor ef1c867a
Microsoft - Internet Explorer Microsoft -
WebFldrs XP Microsoft -
Windows XP Home Edition Microsoft -
Works Standard 99

Software Versions (mouse over * for details, click * for location) [Back to Top]
Adobe Acrobat Reader Version 5.0.5.0 *
Adobe Acrobat Version 8.0.0.0 *
Adobe Reader Version 8.1.0.2007051100 *
AdpBrowser Application Version 1, 0, 0, 21 *
African Safari *
America Online Version 7, 0, 0, 2 *
America Online, Inc. - AOL Connectivity Service Version 1,0,25,3 *
Apple Computer, Inc. - QuickTime for Windows Version 2.0.3.51 *
Apple Inc. - QuickTime QuickTime 7.4 *
Apple Software Update Version 2.0.2.92 *
Belarc, Inc. - Advisor Version 7.2v *
Browser Mouse 2.0 Version 3.0.0.0 *
Cinematronics - 3D Pinball Version 5.1.2600.0 *
Eastman Kodak Company - Kodak EasyShare printer Version 5.3.0.042 *
Eastman Kodak Company - Kodak EasyShare Software Version 6, 4, 0, 100 *
Google Updater Version 2.0.734.29932.beta *
GRISOFT, s.r.o. - AVG 7.5 Anti-Virus System Version 7.5.0.420 *
GRISOFT, s.r.o. - AVG Anti-Virus system Version 7.5.0.474 *
GTek Technologies Ltd. - GTCoach Version 3, 0, 0, 1 *
GTek Technologies Ltd. - TrainerCabLauncher Application Version 1, 0, 0, 1 *
Humongous Entertainment - SPUTM Engine Version 99.001 *
IrfanView Uninstaller Version 1, 0, 0, 1 *
IrfanView Version 4.00 *
Knowledge Adventure - KA lchcdap Version 1.0 *
Lexmark International, Inc. - MarkVision for Windows (32 bit) Version 9.47 *
Macromedia Director Version 6.0.2 * Microsoft (r) Windows Script Host Version 5.6.0.6626 *
Microsoft Corporation - Clip Gallery 3.0 for Windows Version 3.0 *
Microsoft Corporation - Internet Explorer Version 6.00.2800.1106 *
Microsoft Corporation - Windows Installer - Unicode Version 3.1.4000.1823 *
Microsoft Corporation - Windows Movie Maker Version 1.1.2427.1 *
Microsoft Corporation - Windows® NetMeeting® Version 3.01 *
Microsoft Corporation - Zone.com Version 1.2.626.1 *
Microsoft Encarta Version 8.29.00.0912 *
Microsoft IntelliType Pro / IntelliPoint Version 6.1 *
Microsoft Open Database Connectivity Version 3.520.9030.0 *
Microsoft Windows Media Player Version 6.4.09.1125 *
Microsoft Works for Windows Version 4.00.05.465 *
Microsoft(R) Windows Media Player Version 8.00.00.4487 *
Multi-Media Keyboard Application Version 2.0.0.0 *
NVIDIA Driver Helper Service, Version 21.85 Version 5.13.01.2185 *
Piriform Ltd - CCleaner Version 2, 4, 0, 543 *
RealNetworks, Inc. - RealPlayer (32-bit) Version 6.0.12.1578 *
RealNetworks, Inc. - RealPlayer (32-bit) Version 7.0.0.3301 *
Streamcast Networks, Inc - Morpheus Version 1.0.0.1 *
The Learning Company - 32-Bit Smart Shortcut Version 3.0.50.0 *
TkBellExe *
ToniArts - EasyCleaner Version 2.0.6 *
Trend Micro Inc. - HijackThis Version 2.00.0002 *
Webroot Software, Inc. - Cache & Cookie Washer Version 4.0 *
Willow Pond Media Rack Version 2.20.029 *

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

* Click to see where software is installed.
a. Megahertz measurement may be inaccurate if other programs were busy during last analysis.
b. Data may be transferred on the bus at one, two, or four times the Bus Clock rate.
c. Memory slot contents may not add up to Installed Memory if some memory is not recognized by Windows.
d. Memory slot contents is reported by the motherboard BIOS. Contact system vendor if slot contents are wrong.
e. This may be the manufacturer's factory installed product key rather than yours.

[kelly]

I still think an XP repair is in order.

[mamafowler]

but if my computer isn't running any discs I put in it (can't even run it through the start menu/run section) how will that help? how much does it usually cost to have it fixed at a repair shop?

[mamafowler]

oh,and whenever I try to run windows updates, it always "encounters an error and shuts down" that has been happening way before my panic-strickened attempt to re-virginize my computer. Maybe I was trying to somehow erase the images from my son's memory too! I wish I could afford to just buy a new/newer one, but right now, it's just not an option. Hackers can come in and destroy your computer, right? Can't the good guys come in and fix it?

[kelly]

So we're back to borrowing a Windows XP CD from someone and hoping that you can do an XP Repair which has been mentioned previously in this thread. Can you borrow a CD from someone? If not, then I think it's time to bring it to a computer repair shop.

[mamafowler]

yeah, but if I do get a cd, and I put it in, is my computer going to be able to read it? THe only drives it says I have are the C and A. Even with a disc inside it, there is no option to run/play/access it. Will a Windows XP disc be any different?

[kelly]

Can't hurt to try. My thinking is that Windows is messed to the point where it doesn't recognize your Cd Drive. If you insert an XP CD and have your computer boot to the CD it might work. What happens here is that the BIOS will recognize the CD whereas Windows doesn't. Why not give it a try?

[mylanta]

yeah, but if I do get a cd, and I put it in, is my computer going to be able to read it? THe only drives it says I have are the C and A. Even with a disc inside it, there is no option to run/play/access it. Will a Windows XP disc be any different?


MAYBE IF I SHOUT THIS YOU WILL UNDERSTAND? RUNNING A CD IN WINDOWS AND BOOTING TO A CD TO DO AN INSTALL OR REPAIR ARE COMPLETELY DIFFERENT THINGS.
We gave you a great link to read and if you are not going to throughly read it or anything else, then what does it matter how much the repair costs?
Choice 1) Read this and do it: http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm
Choice 2) Go to a service store and they will read the link and do it for you.

[kern]

:eek:ok guys, i ran the belarc thingy and copied what it gave me...maybe you can make heads or tails of this stuff!!!! Thanks.

Computer Name: Pavilion (in MSHOME)
Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 2 (build 2600)
467 megahertz Intel Celeron
Board: Trigem Computer, Inc. Cognac
BIOS: Phoenix Technologies LTD 1.04 09/04/99
Drives Memory Modules c,d
8.43 Gigabytes Usable Hard Drive Capacity
2.13 Gigabytes Hard Drive Free Space

mamaf,
Your pc may have come with an HP Recovery or Restore CD(s) instead of an XP OEM CD. If so, you can use those disks to recover your system.

Rob

[mamafowler]

yikes, and sorry for wasting your time.

[mommalina]

Hang in there, Mamafowler. We may bark, but we never bite .. :frown:

I didn't see a purchase date in your Belarc report. How old is the
computer? This is something I would take into consideration when
deciding if you should take it to a repair shop or just buy a new one.

Mamafowler, you and I may have the same DNA. I know we've thrown a lot
of information and suggestions at you, and it may be difficult to absorb it
all and decide what to do first......after wringing your son's neck, that is .. ;)

Take a deep breath, try to follow Rich's instructions:

Choice 1) Read this and do it:
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

Print out the instructions on that site. Try to chill out, relax, and read them.
If you think you can follow them, create a restore point (if you can), and
try it! You really don't have anything to lose!

If it's all Greek to you, then you have no choice but Rich's second
suggestion:

Choice 2) Go to a service store and they will read the link and do it for you.


Guys, please don't forget that some of us are not computer-savvy. I'd
rather try translating Greek than try to read and understand how-to-fix-
your-computer instructions.....especially if I were Mamafowler and
juggling a job, four rambunctious kids, a husband, and a dog!

And we can't all easily afford to take our computers to a repair shop.......
definitely not until we've exhausted all other free alternatives.



Lina

[mylanta]

Guys, please don't forget that some of us are not computer-savvy. I'd
rather try translating Greek than try to read and understand how-to-fix-
your-computer instructions.....especially if I were Mamafowler and
juggling a job, four rambunctious kids, a husband, and a dog!

And we can't all easily afford to take our computers to a repair shop.......
definitely not until we've exhausted all other free alternatives.

Lina,
and mama, this is not the issue. There is a url to read which is really simple to read and follow. It was put there to try to help and trust me there is nothing difficult to understand on that site, that's why we suggest it all the time.

Some of the solutions offered are really simple and I am almost sure System Restore was mentioned a while back but let's pool together here. Since the issue is spyware, I can just bet for sure System Restore won't work anyway, but how about a try. Start, Programs, Accessories, System restore, and then pick a date prior to this happening and try to restore to it.

Mama has yet to read anything offered or try any solution offered and a few days have passed so there is really no sense in suggesting anything else.

I would love to help but I am not there at her pc to try the suggestions and for whatever reason she is not reading them or trying them, that's why I suggested she go to a repair shop because I assume she wants it fixed and is just afraid to try herself. If spending money is out of the question, well then she is not saying that either, the whole point is we are getting little feedback and basically talking to ourselves here. But if that is the case then turn it off and wait until you can afford to fix it because one thing we all know, is that time will only make things worse, never cure the issues.



Lina[/quote]

[mommalina]

Lina,
and mama, this is not the issue. There is a url to read which is really simple to read and follow. It was put there to try to help and trust me there is nothing difficult to understand on that site, that's why we suggest it all the time.

Sorry, Rich. It's not easy for me to read, understand, and follow .. :( .. :doh:
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

Some of the solutions offered are really simple and I am almost sure System Restore was mentioned a while back

I don't see it, but that's not to say it was not mentioned.


Start, Programs, Accessories, System restore, and then pick a date prior to this happening and try to restore to it.

Thank you! That should help Mamafowler .. :D (I have a System Restore
icon on my desktop so I don't have to remember how to search for it .. :doh:)

Mama has yet to read anything offered or try any solution offered and a few days have passed so there is really no sense in suggesting anything else.


As suggested, she ran Eset, ran Belarc --so she is reading the posts.


Rich, a gentle reminder from one of your previous posts:
2 answers 1 and also we have a beginner user here!


Rich, if System Restore doesn't work, it all would be more than I could
handle--and I've been using a computer for approximately nine years and
been active on this and our last forum. I just don't have an aptitude for
computerese and apparently neither does Mamafowler--yet.

So, if doing a System Restore to the last date the computer functioned
properly does not fix it all, Mamafowler may have only two choices --
take it to a repair shop or buy a new computer. And at least we did try our
best to help her.


Lina

[mamafowler]

hi, I have read all the posts, even the ones where I was being shouted at. Let me say that I had already tried to restore before seeking help, and I have no dates to restore to. I guess those went down the same hole as everything else in my computer. I have read and re-read the instructions on the link that was provided, and I was/am under the assumption that I am going to need the XP disc regardless of what needs to be done. I do not have the disc, but I am looking around for one. If I am wrong about needing the disc, just tell me, because the first step I see on the repair says: Boot your computer using the XP cd....

Whatever gave the impression that I am not reading or trying your suggestions? I have tried to answer the questions that were #1. actually been asked TO me and #2. that I actually knew the answer to. Most of the posts on this thread are conversations between others ABOUT me/my problem, and I have taken in and been thankful for all of the information in those too. Mylanta, I never meant to annoy you to the point of shouting, or cause anyone to bang their smilies head against a wall, just trying to make heads or tails of all the info and do what I can do until I get the cd. So if my computer-ignorance is more than you can stand, consider this my last post. I had no idea I would actually walk away feeling worse than I did when I first asked for help. Thank you again to all of you for your suggestions/instructions, I appreciate your time and patience.

[kern]

Sorry, Rich. It's not easy for me to read, understand, and follow .. :( .. :doh:
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

Lina

and after all shes only been a member here for 3 days.....

[kern]

hi, I have read all the posts, even the ones where I was being shouted at. Let me say that I had already tried to restore before seeking help, and I have no dates to restore to. I guess those went down the same hole as everything else in my computer. I have read and re-read the instructions on the link that was provided, and I was/am under the assumption that I am going to need the XP disc regardless of what needs to be done. I do not have the disc, but I am looking around for one. If I am wrong about needing the disc, just tell me, because the first step I see on the repair says: Boot your computer using the XP cd....

Whatever gave the impression that I am not reading or trying your suggestions? I have tried to answer the questions that were #1. actually been asked TO me and #2. that I actually knew the answer to. Most of the posts on this thread are conversations between others ABOUT me/my problem, and I have taken in and been thankful for all of the information in those too. Mylanta, I never meant to annoy you to the point of shouting, or cause anyone to bang their smilies head against a wall, just trying to make heads or tails of all the info and do what I can do until I get the cd. So if my computer-ignorance is more than you can stand, consider this my last post. I had no idea I would actually walk away feeling worse than I did when I first asked for help. Thank you again to all of you for your suggestions/instructions, I appreciate your time and patience.

mamaf,
Please stay. We can work together to solve your problem even with all the shouting.....

Rob

[mommalina]

So if my computer-ignorance is more than you can stand consider this my last post. I had no idea I would actually walk away feeling worse than I did when I first asked for help. Thank you again to all of you for your suggestions/instructions, I appreciate your time and patience.

Mamafowler, my computer ignorance has not yet sent anyone here to a
mental or anger-management institution. You're safe. .. ;) If it were not for
some on this forum, I would have thrown my first computer out the window
years ago and given up. They may get adamant and frustrated at times, but
deep down they are pussy cats and want to help.

You are juggling four kids, a husband, a dog, and a job--you're not going to
be offended by a little shouting and a smilie, are you? Come on! Besides,
Mamafowler, women here are outnumbered--we need more newbies and
female perspective in order to provide kinder, gentler help .. ;) .. don't
desert us!

Please reconsider. Let us know when and if you get that XP cd, and we'll
take it from there.


Lina

[mylanta]

Sorry mama,
There may be too many posts in here muddying the waters and it was not my intention to chase you, only to get answers which I was frustrated in not getting.
I thought you had done System Restore also.
The whole idea of borrowing a disk would not really work for a Repair unless you got the exact disk that was for the exact version of XP you have on there, and I don't think you have that knowledge to pull off. Not a put down I am reading what you have related to us.
If I were you I would contact whoever your pc is made by as you have yet to tell us and as long as it is not Gateway, Restore cd's should be only about $20 which is the least expensive solution or go to a shop and they can do that for you.
Please don't lose heart, this is not as difficult as it seems and again sorry for my reactions, I was frustrated with what I saw.

[mamafowler]

Believe me, I was very surprised at how affected I was/am. I have never gone to a forum and gotten yelled at for not understanding something, or needing help. Maybe he thought I was wasting time, but I am truely trying to fix my computer, with the help of all of you. When it comes to computers, I guess I have a hard time expressing what is going wrong, or answering questions that I don't completely understand. In looking for a cd (of course none of my family/friends have theirs) I ended up on ebay, and I just want to be sure of what to buy. Do I get the rescue/repair discs or a brand new xp disc?

[Seth]

Continued from my previous post:

Please make sure they see this as well:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/314060

[kelly]

Seth - I'm amazed as how you find these fixes. Good going.

[mamafowler]

ok, so I can buy a repair/recovery xp cd and not the regular one, right? and when I get it, I follow the steps from the link that mylanta sent, right? What is the COA, and where can I find it? I know that you said for me to take it to the shop, but I HAVE to try and do it myself (I know, I know) b/c of money situations. Thanks for not giving up on me!

[June]

If I were you I would contact whoever your pc is made by as you have yet to tell us and as long as it is not Gateway, Restore cd's should be only about $20

Rich, if I am not mistaken, I believe she did tell us who made the computer along with a multitude of other useful information with her Belarc report on post #32. The computer is an HP Pavilion.

[mylanta]

Rich, if I am not mistaken, I believe she did tell us who made the computer along with a multitude of other useful information with her Belarc report on post #32. The computer is an HP Pavilion.

Thanks June if correct then you have a better opportunity. If it's an HP then it must have a Restore Partition and the HP Restore Partition offers 2 types of restore. One with reinstalling operating system and programs and leaving your files, the other wipes the drive and restores as new.
mam, this is the way I would proceed though if you do not have the Recovery Partition then the next thing to do is buy restore disks from HP as they are only about $20 including freight and that way you put back your programs as well.
If you start pressing F10 constantly at the same time you press the power button, when you see recovery partition choose it. be careful but there should be the option to save files and data and restore only OS and programs...that is the option you want to take!

[mamafowler]

Hey, I shut down the computer, turned it back on, and started pushing F10 and nothing happened. I am going to purchase a recovery/repair cd today, and go from there, unless there are other ways to get to the recovery partition. Like I have said, there are no dates in my system restore calendar, so just go on to ebay?

[mylanta]

No go to www.hp.com and go to support, downloads and under downloads for your model pc you will see the ability to buy the restore disks for your model.
Are you sure you are tapping F10 continuously after pressing the power button to turn pc on, and until you actually get in to partition?

[mamafowler]

yeah, absolutley sure that I am tapping the heck out of F10 from the moment I pushed the power button, all the way up to the point where my desktop was completely loaded and ready to go. Then I tried it again, and again. Then I tried to push the other F buttons and esc and nothing happened with those either. It just proceeds on with the booting up no matter what I am pushing. I am going to the hp website now, here we go! Crap.....I need a floppy and I can't find one, gotta go get one, and THEN I'll proceed with the hp website..thanks...again and again.

[mamafowler]

ok, so, what do I need to do? I know I keep asking that, it's just whenever I get ready to make a move, there is a new post or a disagreement about the previous advice. So throw me a bone guys, what's my next step. Go with the hp website or try other buttons during startup? By model number do you mean HP Pavilion 6535? Now Rich, don't let my confusion send you over the edge again, I just stopped crying. ;0)

[kern]

ok, so, what do I need to do? I know I keep asking that, it's just whenever I get ready to make a move, there is a new post or a disagreement about the previous advice. So throw me a bone guys, what's my next step. Go with the hp website or try other buttons during startup? By model number do you mean HP Pavilion 6535? Now Rich, don't let my confusion send you over the edge again, I just stopped crying. ;0)

mamaf,
The first thing to do is to try to get a set of Recovery Disks from HP. Click the link below, and enter the required info to see if recovery disks are still available from HP for your model pc.

Rob

>>> http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?docname=bph07143&lc=en&cc=us&dlc=en&product=59370&lang=en

[mamafowler]

I do not have that option....at least from what I can tell. When I go to system restore, I only have dates available AFTER this all happened with my computer. That is the only system restore I have access to. I know that there is something that completely restore xp back to the way it was shipped, but as far as I can tell, there is nothing like that on this computer. When I went to the hp site that Rich gave me back in post #63, it told me that I could make my own restore/repair with a floppy disc and by following those instructions, and I had planned on doing that (gotta go get a floppy). So can you tell me (again) where I can look for the complete/total system recovery or should I just do the download/floppy/repair route. You guys are the best for helping this lil' ol' mom of 4!

[kern]

I do not have that option....at least from what I can tell. When I go to system restore, I only have dates available AFTER this all happened with my computer. That is the only system restore I have access to. I know that there is something that completely restore xp back to the way it was shipped, but as far as I can tell, there is nothing like that on this computer. When I went to the hp site that Rich gave me back in post #63, it told me that I could make my own restore/repair with a floppy disc and by following those instructions, and I had planned on doing that (gotta go get a floppy). So can you tell me (again) where I can look for the complete/total system recovery or should I just do the download/floppy/repair route. You guys are the best for helping this lil' ol' mom of 4!

mamaf,
XP System Restore is a utility that is run from within XP, and as you have said, is no longer an option.
HP Recovery/Restore is a utility that HP installs on a seperate partition on the harddrive, which if it is installed on your pc, can be used to do a clean install of Windows XP, as well as all the other software that was originally installed on your pc at the factory.
If your pc does not have the Recovery partition, then see if HP still offers Recovery Diska for your pc as I described.

Rob

[mamafowler]

Rob, on the hp site, it says that I can download recovery to a floppy and go from there. Does that sound right or am I misunderstanding something?

[kern]

Rob, on the hp site, it says that I can download recovery to a floppy and go from there. Does that sound right or am I misunderstanding something?

mamaf,
You have to order the set of CD's from HP. This assumes that they are still available for your pc. As I mentioned, you need to enter the appropriate info on HP's website, model#, serial# I believe, and they will tell you if the CD's are available, then you place an order for the CD's.

Rob

[mylanta]

As you can see from Donna's post F10 is correct so I have to believe that there is no recovery partition on there. You could try the instructions for starting in Windows since you can boot up or go to the HP site and buy the restore cd's and you know, regardless of whatever you do, I would buy those cd's anyway as HP has a bad habit of not rendering support on old operating systems after a while ....

[kern]

mamaf,
Open My Computer, click the C: drive, click the Programs folder, and browse for an HP or Compaq Tools and/or PC Help and Tools folder.
If you dont see either of those folders, contact HP to see if the Recovery disks are available.
Other than that you'd have to borrow a compatible XP Home CD, or purchase a retail XP Home CD.

Rob

[allheart55]

Hi MamaFowler, Sorry to hear you are having such problems. If you know, is the model HP Pavilion 6535 Desktop PC ?

[mamafowler]

:ear:ok, I think I need to back up a little. I haven't posted in a while b/c I have been a work but I unlocked a couple of more pieces to my ever-annoying puzzle. well, this(my) computer was given to us by my brother-in-law who tinkers with electronics and such. This is a pretty old computer and it originally had windows 2000 on it. He reconfigured this and loaded that and adjusted things to make it more user friendly, like putting in more ports/slots for USB's and stuff. So, with all of this being said, I don't think that any of the information we have been exchanging will fix this computer b/c nothing on it is original and is probably rigged up in a way that is not standard. So when I was making a repair/recovery floppy (entered the model#,and it gave me instructions on how to download repair and make a floppy to be able to reboot from) for Windows XP, it wasn't working right. I think that is because THIS computer wasn't made/shipped with the XP on it, the XP was added later. I am trying to find out if he still has the XP cd he used to install it on here, but if he doesn't, what are our alternatives? Can anyone even make heads or tails of this mess now that a new monkey wrench has been thrown into the pot? I know you are all probably rolling your eyes and thinking "my God, WHAT is this lady trying to do to us?!" But I did not know this information earlier.

If you are ready to dump me, I completely understand. The repair shop told me that if the computer doesn't have the windows xp sticker on the side, that they cannot legally install/repair it, does that sound right? Any more input (even if it's STOP WRITING US) would be greatly appreciated.

[mylanta]

Mama. The solutions are the same as XP is on there now and nothing really is changed by what you wrote here.
You need to buy an XP cd though as restore Disks are out of the question and you can do that with an upgrade version of XP Home which is $99 as longas you have or can borrow any other Windows version to put in during install to prove you have another copy...then you can do clean install with upgrade version. The first thing I would do though is the XP Repair which was mentioned earlier, then if that does not do it, clean install.
http://www.winsupersite.com/showcase/windowsxp_sg_clean.asp

[kelly]

It really doesn't matter if this machine originally had W2K. The fact remains that it now has XP. It may have been installed as a new installation or as an upgrade to W2K.

You still need the XP installation or XP upgrade disk to do the XP Repair.

- Tony

[kern]

I unlocked a couple of more pieces to my ever-annoying puzzle. This is a pretty old computer and it originally had windows 2000 on it. He reconfigured this and loaded that and adjusted things to make it more user friendly, like putting in more ports/slots for USB's and stuff. So, with all of this being said, I don't think that any of the information we have been exchanging will fix this computer b/c nothing on it is original and is probably rigged up in a way that is not standard.
I am trying to find out if he still has the XP cd he used to install it on here, but if he doesn't, what are our alternatives? Can anyone even make heads or tails of this mess now that a new monkey wrench has been thrown into the pot? I know you are all probably rolling your eyes and thinking "my God, WHAT is this lady trying to do to us?!" But I did not know this information earlier.
If you are ready to dump me, I completely understand. The repair shop told me that if the computer doesn't have the windows xp sticker on the side, that they cannot legally install/repair it, does that sound right? Any more input (even if it's STOP WRITING US) would be greatly appreciated.

mamaf,
XP can be installed on any pc that meets XP's minimum system requirements. The fact that your pc didnt have XP on it originally, and has hardware upgrades, is not important except that you now know you cant use the HP XP Restore disks.
As for install/repair of XP, as long as the product key you have for XP is legit, you can use an XP Home CD (of the same version) to do a repair and/or clean install of XP.
In a nutshell, you boot from the XP CD and follow the on-screen installation instructions. When asked to enter a product key, type in your key, and you will be good to go.

But before you do anything else, if there is important data on your pc that you dont want to lose, make sure to copy it to other media (CD's, etc).

Rob

[mylanta]

mamaf,
XP can be installed on any pc that meets XP's minimum system requirements. The fact that your pc didnt have XP on it originally, and has hardware upgrades, is not important except that you now know you cant use the HP XP Restore disks.
As for install/repair of XP, as long as the product key you have for XP is legit, you can use an XP Home CD (of the same version) to do a repair and/or clean install of XP.
In a nutshell, you boot from the XP CD and follow the on-screen installation instructions. When asked to enter a product key, type in your key, and you will be good to go.

But before you do anything else, if there is important data on your pc that you dont want to lose, make sure to copy it to other media (CD's, etc).

Rob

Actually Rob you are assuming something we don't know and that is that that pc never came with XP on it. You do get a choice of OS when you order restore disks so if XP ever came on that pc then there is a possibility of getting it.

[mamafowler]

well, as far as I know, the computer came with windows 2000 on it. How/where would I find my key and the only drive that is working on my computer right now is the A drive. Should/can I try to back stuff up on floppies? But one thing is clear...I need a xp disk...maybe not mine....but A disk....right?? I understand that I can boot to the disk even though hard drive is not working. I went to the hp website, entered my model, etc.. and it gave me download instructions, and I made the floppy they instructed, and I tried re-booting with it and nothing happened. My computer wouldn't budge. But when I removed the floppy, it started right back up (still messed up, of course). Am I way off course here with the floppy deal? This is what I am talking about.....

http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/softwareDownloadIndex?os=228&softwareitem=pv161en&lc=en&cc=us&dlc=en&product=59370&lang=en

[kelly]

The floppy won't do anything. You need to do an XP Repair in my opinion. Borrow a CD from someone or take the machine to a shop where they can fix the machine.

[mylanta]

The floppy won't do anything. You need to do an XP Repair in my opinion. Borrow a CD from someone or take the machine to a shop where they can fix the machine.

You cannot use anyone else's disk for Repair Tony as it will call for the product code at one point and you cannot activate 2 units with one copy. It is illegal and will not be activated. If you have the exact same version, which would probably be full XP Home SP2, then and only then could you put in the product code on the pc though sounds like that code would be for Win 2000 anyway. You will have to buy an XP disk.

[kern]

this(my) computer was given to us by my brother-in-law. This is a pretty old computer and it originally had windows 2000 on it. I am trying to find out if he still has the XP cd he used to install it on here, but if he doesn't, what are our alternatives?

well, as far as I know, the computer came with windows 2000 on it. How/where would I find my key and the only drive that is working on my computer right now is the A drive. Should/can I try to back stuff up on floppies? But one thing is clear...I need a xp disk...maybe not mine....but A disk....right?? I understand that I can boot to the disk even though hard drive is not working. I went to the hp website, entered my model, etc.. and it gave me download instructions, and I made the floppy they instructed, and I tried re-booting with it and nothing happened. My computer wouldn't budge. But when I removed the floppy, it started right back up (still messed up, of course). Am I way off course here with the floppy deal? This is what I am talking about.....

http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/softwareDownloadIndex?os=228&softwareitem=pv161en&lc=en&cc=us&dlc=en&product=59370&lang=en

mamf,
The 'floppy' you are attempting to make from HP is for a totally different purpose and is of no use to you.
In order to get your pc back in working order, you MUST use an XP CD.
Since your bro-in-law installed XP to begin with, ask him if he still has the XP CD he used to do the install. If he still has it, you can use that CD to 'repair' the current installation of XP, OR, you can use it to do a clean install of XP.

If he no longer has the XP CD, then you have 2 options:
1) borrow an XP CD (of the same version that is installed on your pc), or
2) purchase a new retail XP CD.

As for copying your important data, you can use floppy disks if you have a small amount of data to save.

Rob

[mamafowler]

I see what you are saying about the cd, and backing stuff up, and starting over. You mentioned something about a xp product key (number?) that I will need when I get the xp disk, where would I find that? I don't see anything on the computer itself, what files/folders would I look in to find this information? Hang in there guys, I'll be out of your hair soon!:wave:

[mylanta]

I see what you are saying about the cd, and backing stuff up, and starting over. You mentioned something about a xp product key (number?) that I will need when I get the xp disk, where would I find that? I don't see anything on the computer itself, what files/folders would I look in to find this information? Hang in there guys, I'll be out of your hair soon!:wave:

If there is no code on the tower then it has to be with the cd.

[dale@fcg]

http://www.gtopala.com/siw-download.html has a program that you can download and use to find your product key. Click on the link for English Standalone version and save it to your desktop. The program does not need installed. Just double click on the file you downloaded and it will open up a window with two panes. In the left pane, click on Operating System (the first item at the top under Software section) and on the right about nine or ten items down is your product key. Write this down for all future times you need this product key.

[mamafowler]

ok guys, I need you more than EVER!!! I finally have an XP cd, and I put it in, and restarted my computer...while it was booting up, i tried like hell pushing the f buttons and the r button to try and get it to bring up something...anything...but instead it just booted up like it normally would...so if you are still out there, and still willing to help, I could use some advice!!

[mamafowler]

ok, i tried what you said, and nothing. so i went to run/msconfig and found where i could run in safe mode and lots of other options. before i go and try anything else, the last time i re-booted it said that "windows has be changed and you need to reactivate within 3 days" WHAT IN THE HECK IS THAT?? I'm so lost here guys, and I totally don't have the money to take it to the shop...is this a lost cause or what???

[mamafowler]

since i have a cd now, should i completely uninstall xp and start fresh? i am reading the microsoft steps on reinstalling xp from the disk,and when i restart my computer i am not getting the screens it's telling me i should be getting. is there a way to wipe it out all together and start over again with the cd?

[mylanta]

ok, i tried what you said, and nothing. so i went to run/msconfig and found where i could run in safe mode and lots of other options. before i go and try anything else, the last time i re-booted it said that "windows has be changed and you need to reactivate within 3 days" WHAT IN THE HECK IS THAT?? I'm so lost here guys, and I totally don't have the money to take it to the shop...is this a lost cause or what???
You need to do that mama or it will lock up in you.

[mamafowler]

activate it? uninstall it and reinstall it? when i click ok for the activation, it is just a blank screen, no words, no options, no nothing. thank you soooo much for responding quickly! i feel like i'm so close but still so far away.:confused:

[mylanta]

activate it? uninstall it and reinstall it? when i click ok for the activation, it is just a blank screen, no words, no options, no nothing. thank you soooo much for responding quickly! i feel like i'm so close but still so far away.:confused:

You need to activate it...could be on the start menu all the way up or Start, Programs, Accessories, Activation?

[mamafowler]

whenever i click on activate it brings up a blue window what has the little keys at the top, but there are not words, or images on it. And I've tried pushing enter/numbers/etc..but nothing happens. I can x out of it and go back to normal activity. Anyone know why I am only bringing up the window and no info in it?

[kelly]

Did you follow the directions I sent you on post #7?

[mamafowler]

yes, that is what I have trying to do for 2 days now. When I put the cd in, then restart, NONE of what it says in the directions happens on my computer. All it does is boot up like nothing is different. I have pressed all the buttons possible during the startup. I went to msconfig and there was an option to boot in safe mode (among other things) so I tried that and it did boot up in safe mode, but there still was no sign of the steps I needed. What in the world could I be doing wrong? Why is my comuter not responding to me hitting f1 or f2 or fanything? Golly, is this frusterating or what?!

ps. it mentions in the first step that i may need to change the bios boot order....please explain that to me and how i might go about doing so.

ok...in the msconfig screen there are these options for boot.ini

safeboot
noguiboot
bootlog
basevideo
sos

I chose the safeboot one and it let me restart in safe mode but again, there was no options for windows xp and it is still telling me that I need to activate windows within 3 days, but there is nothing but a little blue screen that comes up when i select "ok"

[kelly]

The boot order issue was brought up in post #95. It was also brought up in step 1 of XP Repair in my post #7.

When you start your computer, watch the corners of the display. Watch them carefully. For a brief second, there will be a message telling you what key to press for SETUP. Press that key and poke around until you find the boot order. Change it so that it boots from the CD first. Then EXIT and SAVE.

[mamafowler]

is this crazy or what? there is not a single screen with any message on it, no numbers, no letters, nothing, not even for a brief second. I have pushed all the F's and various other keys during startup and the same thing happens...nothing. So I can't even get past the first step!!

[mylanta]

OK unfortunately no one wants to review 105 posts to find out what your pc is and I can't remember if we know. So guess time:
Now to get into bios you need to tap one of these continuously after pressing the power button until you get into setup or bios:
"del" for most F1&F10 HP & Compaq, F2 Dell, Toshiba....
Go here for all:
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/bios_manufacturer.htm

[kelly]

When you start the computer, what is the first thing you see? Please tell us exactly what the first thing you see on the screen is.

[allheart55]

It's an HP.

[mamafowler]

for all that is holy, I swear to you that no matter what/how often/when/why I hit/press/push/bang/thump NOTHING happens. It's like my computer is laughing at me hysterically saying "go ahead,make my day" gah!!!!!!!!!

The very FIRST thing that pops up is a blue screen with white writing that says Hewlett Packard. During which time I have pushed the living crap out of everything...including the little buttons on the damn monitor (hey, it was worth a try) ARE THERE NO BIOS ON THIS MACHINE??!!! :smash:

[kelly]

Yeah - getting into the BIOS may be difficult if you're not used to it as you have to know what key to use and you must hit it at the right time. Believe me, there is a BIOS on this machine.

My HP uses F10 to get to the BIOS setup. So, start your machine and immediately start tapping the F10 key.

If that doesn't get into the BIOS, restart and this time start tapping the ESC key.
If that doesn't get into the BIOS, restart and this time start tapping the DEL key.
If that doesn't get into the BIOS, restart and this time start tapping the F1 key.
If that doesn't get into the BIOS, restart and this time start tapping the F2 key.

If none of that works, then maybe you have a bad keyboard. Try another keyboard.

[kelly]

I forgot to mention, keep tapping the key until Windows starts loading. That way you haven't stopped tapping before the key is called for. ONCE Windows STARTS LOADING tapping any of those keys is useless.

[Seth]

If mama is using a USB keyboard on an older rig, the motherboard won't recognize the keyboard.

[mylanta]

HP computers are F1 pressed after pressing the power button and "gently" tapped continuously until entering setup. Some are F2 and the ones that have Compaq technology are F10. In order for a computer to boot, it has to have a bios or you would not see any writing on the screen whatsoever at any time except "please check monitor" coming from monitor itself.

I think we are all forgetting something and that is this must be a usb keyboard where the function keys don't work in many cases no matter what you do below Windows and sometimes if the bios is set to recognize them. The usb keyboard would still work in Windows even if bios disabled usb keyboard, just not in the bios. It also could be she has a Ps2 keyboard and usb keyboard is enabled in the bios in which case on many boards the reverse is true of what I just wrote.
If we can figure out how to get mama to reset bios defaults, that is one possibility. The other possibility is the bios is corrupted or the motherboard is toast but I seriously doubt we can get her through this on a typed forum and think the best possible advice we can give her is find a reputable repair shop, and be sure to ask for references and call several of them before going in.

It is also possible that the same keyboard malfunction is what is preventing us from accessing restore partition and also for $20 and 3 days time this all could have been rectified with restore disk purchase from HP, that would have been there over a week ago, providing all we had to do was let mama find out which type of keyboard she has, and then procure the other type.

The way we are proceeding here is producing unnecessary wear and tear on all parties involved and cannot solve this problem. Our job as a forum is to offer the best possible advice on how to remedy the situation, not conduct an endurance contest with 12 participants to see who can offer the most solutions that will or will not work!

This comment is not mean spirited at all. It is an attempt to find the best possible solution and relieve the air of desperation which will never help anyone.

[mamafowler]

my keyboard and mouse are wireless that are plugged in via usb cable. it is a microsoft keyboard and mouse and they run off of the same usb. is that why my button pressing during startup isn't working?

[mylanta]

my keyboard and mouse are wireless that are plugged in via usb cable. it is a microsoft keyboard and mouse and they run off of the same usb. is that why my button pressing during startup isn't working?

yes it almost has to be...using a Ps2 keyboard would probably allow access to bios and that is where we are stumped I believe.

[mamafowler]

hey, nope, nope, and nope. This pushing buttons thing is just not working on my hunk of junk..i mean computer....any other ways to this make believe thing you people are calling BIOS?! lol

[mylanta]

hey, nope, nope, and nope. This pushing buttons thing is just not working on my hunk of junk..i mean computer....any other ways to this make believe thing you people are calling BIOS?! lol

No there isn't. Shall we help you find a shop?Whatever you do no "Geek Squad" or anything like that in a chain store, those guys are the worst and highly expensive.

[allheart55]

If you have a Walmart near you you can purchase a cheap, throwaway (it will do the job that you need, for now) ps2 keyboard and mouse for believe it or not $6.00.

[mamafowler]

so with a new (regular) keyboard, a little button pushing,direction following, and my fingers being crossed...is there a chance I can do this?

[allheart55]

Sure there is, Mama. I have learned "never say never". With a ps2 keyboard/mouse follow the directions given to you by Kelly and Mylanta to access the bios. Remember that timing is everything.

[Terry Hanushek]

Note

Mamafowler

After 123 posts. this thread has become very confusing and studded with referbacks to previous posts. It now appears that there is a WinXP available and we are ready to repair the operation system.

In order to facilitate the repair, Dan had created a new thread named MamaFowler HP Pavilion XP problem (http://www.kickenhardware.net/forum/showthread.php?t=11806) in the hardware forum. He has summarized the situation and suggested the next step(s).

I am requesting that we all stop adding to this thread and utilize Dan's new thread.

Thanks

Terry