Excuse my boring first visit

[Frenchman96]

Hi Guys

This is my first visit and I have heard some wonderful things about the help available on this forum. A bit of rhetoric before post if I may, as it might make it easier for you to help me.

I have used a pc for about 6 years, totally as a hobby, and most of my learning has come from helpful people on forums, www.idf50.com being the one visited most.

Although the help on forums is invaluable, I sometimes find the person trying to help, does not lay it out in a simple fashion, which makes it more confusing.

Because of pop unders / FF & IE closing down / blue screen with writing/ etc, I recently had a reformat done by a “techie”, it booted up in his premises so I took it home to re-install my progs. I then had similar trouble so took it to another techie as no 1 lived a distance away. Same again, reformat, re-installed XP home and all my progs and this time I managed to tweak most settings to get it up and running but still a couple of problems which I will come to.

The problem suggested by both techies was that I had 2 x 256 DDRAM but 1 was 266 speed and the other was 400 so they were causing a confliction. This was solved by removing the 266, and I must admit, it is fast enough for me, no difference really.

Now my problem….when I did my backups before reformat, I used a memory stick which I always use in one of my front USB ports and I use my card reader in the other one. Now neither will work in those ports, and before you ask, they do work on other pc’s and the techie has given me the following reason.

He says that the two pieces of hardware are USB2 and the pc is not recognising them, but I have my BB and printer connected by USB so we assume they are USB1.

The techie did a google with the error and was directed to Vnet and I have the suggested solution in an e-mail which I can send or copy/paste. I have started to follow instructions but I reach a certain stage when I can go no further.



Here is the e-mail
This error appears to be due to a protection problem in the Windows registry and can occur with a variety of drivers To fix this problem, go to Start, Run... and type REGEDT32.EXE to run the Registry Editor. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\ENUM\P CI and you will see a number of keys of the form "VEN_xxxx", where xxxx are strings like : "1102&DEV_0004&SUBSYS_00011103&REV_04".Under each of these folders will be another folder with a long numerical name. Open each folder and look for the "DeviceDesc" which matches the hardware you are trying toinstall. HIGHLIGHT THE ENTRY "VEN_xxxx" for that device and select 'SECURITY'-'PERMISSIONS' FROM THE WINDOW TOP MENU and then tick "Allow" for "Full Control". Close REGEDT32 and then continue with the installation of your device.

[mommalina]

:welcome:, gudda96!! Glad to have you aboard. :cheer2:

You are a good bit younger than I am, but I can empathize with your frustration. I would have thrown my first computer out the window were it not for the help I received from some of the members on this board. I'm sure they will do their best to help. You can also get one-on-one assistance Wednesday nights if you join us in our Kickenhardware Computer Help Desk Paltalk chatroom.. (See below for further information. *)

We encourage and appreciate suggestions and comments about this relatively new board! Please post them in the Feedback forum. Thanks!

*We invite you to also join us in our KH Computer Help Desk Paltalk chatroom each Wednesday night, from 9 pm EST until whenever. Here's how to get there:

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** you need to download Paltalk messenger 8.3 software first if you don't already have Paltalk on your system.

In the chatroom you can find or give one-on-one, hands-on help for computer problems, teach or learn about new developments in computers and software. Computer subjects get first priority. If there is a lull, then humor, finance, and whatever can be discussed intermittently. We try not to talk about politics or religion .... there's enough disagreement about antivirus scanners. LOL

For more information about the KH Computer Help Desk Paltalk Chatroom, see: http://www.kickenhardware.net/forum/calendar.php?do=getinfo&day=2006-6-14&e=1&c=1

Hope you'll visit us there, too. Again, :welcome:, gudda96.

Lina

[mylanta]

Welcome Gudda first of all and having read both the email which I find complete BS, and the other tech advice, I am a bit stunned and we certainly hope you will do better here. (PS I answered your other questions on Tech Guy before seeing this)....
Usb 1.1 certainly would be backwards compatible from usb 2.0 but a few questions are necessary.
Please tell us your hardware including age of same.
When the pc was reformatted, were the motherboard drivers put in?
On that cd there may be usb drivers as well. Does anything else usb work?
Have you checked bios that all usb settings are enabled for this pc (Bios usually enters by tapping F1 orF2 or "del" after pushing power button, and until setup or bios opens) as one of your trips to "techland" could have screwed this up.
Are you on SP2 and if so, when you open Control panel, System,Device
Manager and then usb...do any of your controllers have a yellow Question mark next to them in fact are there any yellow question marks anywhere in device manager? back to usb do any of the first controllers say "enhanced" or "enhanced usb 2.0"...

[Frenchman96]

Mylanta

Would it help you if I did some printscreens of areas you would like to look at?

I have a printer and modem plugged into USb ports.

how would you like me to display P/S if required?

[mylanta]

Sorry I missed printer and modem...BTW what kind of modem? External dialup or broadband?
By any chance have you tried back usb ports as if the "tech" wonders were inside, they could easily have pulled loose the jumper wires for from usb.
You can do attachments but I more wanted you to look at bios settings to make sure that all usb issues are enabled....

[dbarrow]

#1. Fix your memory problem. XP will run on 256, barely.
It runs much better with 512 and starts to purr at 1g.
Seriously consider a matched pair of 512 sticks.

#2. USB, you transported the machine. Somebody may have been inside it.
In any case where it has been bumped around or someone has been rooting in the case, re-check all cables and connectors! Especially the small plugs on the mobo header for the front USB ports as these are easily pulled off or knocked loose.

#3. Check BIOS and make sure USB functions are enabled
#4. Check DEVICE MANAGER for USB devices and make sure there are no errors, missing drivers, yellow triangle

You have had "unknown forces" at work inside your machine and no idea what these two "Techs" have done, so start with basics like checking connectors and we will work up from there.

BEWARE! There is a known problem with USB I am running across more and more reference to out there on the web. "Hot plugging and unplugging" of USB devices, especially USB powered devices, is causing USB devices and USB controllers to blow! I see more and more recommendation lately to either use the "Safely remove USB device" function or only connect or disconnect when the machine is powered off.
It is highly possible that repeated "fiddling" with them by a tech has caused such a problem.
Let's work through the basics first and see if we can cure it.

[Rainbow32]

Which version of XP are you using Home or Pro?
Does the memory stick and card reader work in the USB ports in back of the computer?
Do you always use the safely remove hardware icon on the taskbar when unplugging these devices?
Check for hidden devices and ghost devices in device manager. Post any devices that are disabled or have that yellow exclamation mark. Here's how to check for those.
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;Q315539

[Seth]

Welcome to KH gudda :)

Rainbow, dbarrow and Mylanta have already posted the areas that need to checked, but something else comes to mind. You said the modem and printer are USB and they work fine, but are those devices detected on the front ports?

As was suggested, since the front USB's were fine before the format, then there's a good chance that this is a driver issue. So if the problem remains after addressing the posted suggestions, a screen shot of the USB entries from Device Manager would be helpfull. Basically, click on the + sign beside the USB heading in Device Manager, and it will open up details of your USB controllers.

Also, USB2 drivers are included with SP1. Is your XP fully updated? IF you updated did you choose "Custom" which would show hardware drivers updates? To check what Service Pack you have, right click on My Computer and choose properties. The General tab will give that information.

[kern]

XP "first edition" does not support USB2, so if you installed SP1 separately, you need to open Device Manager, click USB Controllers, and select "Update Drivers"

[mylanta]

BEWARE! There is a known problem with USB I am running across more and more reference to out there on the web. "Hot plugging and unplugging" of USB devices, especially USB powered devices, is causing USB devices and USB controllers to blow! I see more and more recommendation lately to either use the "Safely remove USB device" function or only connect or disconnect when the machine is powered off.
It is highly possible that repeated "fiddling" with them by a tech has caused such a problem.
Let's work through the basics first and see if we can cure it.

I have been wondering about exactly that DB as I see more and more of these problems surfacing with usb devices. I asked that question a few years ago about using the "safely remove devices" and never got an adequate answer so I began using it anyway.

[Dan18960]

Hi Guys
Here is the e-mail
This error appears to be due to a protection problem in the Windows registry and can occur with a variety of drivers To fix this problem, go to Start, Run... and type REGEDT32.EXE to run the Registry Editor. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\ENUM\P CI and you will see a number of keys of the form "VEN_xxxx", where xxxx are strings like : "1102&DEV_0004&SUBSYS_00011103&REV_04".Under each of these folders will be another folder with a long numerical name. Open each folder and look for the "DeviceDesc" which matches the hardware you are trying toinstall. HIGHLIGHT THE ENTRY "VEN_xxxx" for that device and select 'SECURITY'-'PERMISSIONS' FROM THE WINDOW TOP MENU and then tick "Allow" for "Full Control". Close REGEDT32 and then continue with the installation of your device.

Welcome to the board Gudda.

Your email "seems" to address the INSTALLATION of a driver for the USB ports. This would indicate that (1) the Tech's did not install the motherboard cd drivers properly or at all or (2) used outdated drivers or (3) used incompatiable drivers from either a wrong web site or wrong model of your motherboard.

I don't see where you are being denied installation from your posting so I am more intune to think that wrong board drivers where installed.

I would also follow Doug's suggestion to get memory for your motherboard performance level (whether it is 266 or 400) and have at least 512mb in your system (as Doug said 1gb is perferable).

Basically, you have done most of the work on your system with the exception of the operating system - and still do not have a system that is consistant in running, SO let's start from the beginning and I am sure you will have a cleaner, meaner, and happier camper in your computing.

(1) Have the following materials readily available before you start:
(a) Operating CD - should have come with your system or purchased later.
(b) Drivers cd for your motherboard - this should have come with your system.
(c) Video drivers - this would be IF your video (monitor connection) is connected to other than the motherboard. You would have a slot taken up where you connect the monitor.
(d) Network driver - again IF you don't have a motherboard connection.

(2) Since you seem to have an operating knowledge, I am going to assume you can enter the computer BIOS - which is "usually" done by pressing F2 during the powering on. You want to go to the area where the boot priority or sequence is done. Make sure you have the following order:
(a) Floppy drive - even though you may not have one - it seems that most motherboards "assume" you will or do.
(b) CD ROM drive - usually this will be a model number assigned by the cd rom drive.
(c) Hard drive - you can leave this order even after you are done with the reinstalling.

(3) Place bootable cd in cd rom drive BEFORE accepting the BIOS setup - that way you will be able to boot right to the cd on power up which will request you to press any key if you want to boot from the CD (which is what you want to do).

(4) Install your operating system cleanly. Accept the defaults throughout - don't worry about hardware at this point. If the operating system finds your equipment, you are on the go.

(5) AFTER the operating system is done, rebooted several times, and then comes up to the desktop you are ready to start the next step.

(6) Now for DRIVERS - place the motherboard cd in the drive and it "should" autorun for you to load HARDWARE drivers ONLY. De-select any software that the motherboard might want to load. We only want to setup the hardware at this point, software will come later and probably be more up-to-date.

(7) Video driver cd next (again this is ONLY applicable IF you have a separate video connection). Some times you will be requested to include DirectX before the video driver will install - accept it.

(8) Network adapter cd - USUALLY this is not necessary as XP can find 90% of the network adapters out there and load it so you have network or internet connectivity.

(9) Go to Microsoft's Windows update site and select CUSTOM. This will help you select not only the required but suggested updates. You will have to run the Windows Genuine Authentication - no way around it so let it happen.

(10) Repeat step 9 until all required and suggested updates have been done.

(11) Now go to the motherboard's manufacturer site and find your motherboard model number. Select to download all newer drivers that your motherboard lists as needed and look at the BIOS version for an update there also. Usually you can download these files and run them locally, including the BIOS update. Note: there are sometimes 2 or 3 different BIOS updates, use the one that will run within Windows.

(12) Test, TEST, TEST your hardware on the front USB ports to see if you have connectivity for the hardware. AND make sure that you safely remove the hardware each time.

(13) Now you should have a clean system - proceed with loading your software ONE at a time. Test and make sure that updates are applied before you go to the next software package.

In the end, you should have a new system ready for you to enjoy.

[Frenchman96]

Quick reply then the rest tomorrow.

1-xp home
2-yes I use safely remove hardware
3-just plugged printer into front hub and it works.
4-modem referred to is my BT BB
5-have updated windows since format
6-i have sp2 installed and have disk
7-now for bus attachment

[Frenchman96]

Not sure why my attachment did not work, I use it a lot in other forums, try again

[Smokey]

the attachmant may be too large, what is the format and file size of the image you are trying to post?

[Sam Ceccola]

Gudda:

I am going to let the experts answer your question but I just wanted to say "Welcome".
Like several other people on this BBS, I am a lot older than you. My background is in software and application development, and Web design and programming. When it comes to hardware and OS situations, I practically fall at the bottom of the totem-poll.
This forum is awesome. Everyone is great and eager to help. It's like a family.

Sam

[Frenchman96]

Smokey

Attachment is 38kb and jpeg so it cant be that surely, as I said, i am used to posting attachments on other sites no problem. I wonder if its another error.

I will answer all replies shortly, just got in so need some time but first, I would like to solve attchment problem as I need to show you all various windows.

I will try again, I only do the usual, c/o attachment/navigate to file/upload/see it on top of screen completed, but it does not show in post/submit reply.

Next question, why souch a poor pivture, should I crop it?

[Seth]

Gudda,

Your USB controllers look fine.

Just to be clear, these memory sticks are USB and not the variety that look like digital camera memory...right?

You mentioned that you received an error. If you post that full error, we can narrow down the exact problem.

[Frenchman96]

Right Guys

I am just back from working in my daughters house and was covered in paint so I will now try to reply to all.

I had so many replies, so I hope I dont miss anyone out.

First on a humorous note, a few of you say you are a lot older than me? perhaps I have not filled out my profile yet, if not and so you know, I am 65 in 3 weeks time.

As I said in my last post, my attchments seem ok now apart from the clarity so any advice on what you guys do will be helpful for I'm sure I will need to post some p/screens..

D.Barrow----hear what you say, and I call myself a dummie still but my pc is running ok with just the one stick of 256 but I will update in near future.One of the two items used in front USB ports is card reader, when problem solved, I will leave it in permanent.

Rainbow---The memory stick does not work in rear OSB ports but my printer works in front USB ports so I confirm, the problem only seems to be be USB2 items.

Kern--My o/s is XP Home which I think comes with SP1 and I have installed SP2 and I have the cd.

Mylanta---The age of my system is about 4 yrs, the techie asked me for my motherboard cd which I gave him, all usb ports work, and have not checked BIOS settings yet.

I now hope I have answered most of the questions and at the end of message, I will post a p/s of device manager as requested. I am going to print these posts and carry out your requests. Not sure if I will find some confusion with all the wonderful offers from different members.

[Frenchman96]

Gudda,

Your USB controllers look fine.
Just to be clear, these memory sticks are USB and not the variety that look like digital camera memory...right?
You mentioned that you received an error. If you post that full error, we can narrow down the exact problem.

Seth
Yes its a stick (256MB-2-0) which I assume means USB2. It is not a XD camera card.

[Seth]

Seth
Yes its a stick (256MB-2-0) which I assume means USB2. It is not a XD camera card.

Ok, just wanted to be sure on that. So how about that error?

[mommalina]

gudda wrote: First on a humorous note, a few of you say you are a lot older than me? perhaps I have not filled out my profile yet, if not and so you know, I am 65 in 3 weeks time.

You're a "spring chicken," gudda. There are a number of seniors here, some of whom have frequent "senior moments." BTW, I have 11 years on you.

Anyone know who our oldest member is?

Lina

[Frenchman96]

Seth

I cant remember now but alls working except those two hardware items.

What I have tried to do is answer the initial questions all have asked, I've printed out 2 sets of instructions to carry out but I'm waiting for those concerned to read my answers and any attachments before I do.

I am a bit concerned to how I go about doing what differents members are suggesting, I dont want to offend on my first visit to such a good forum.

[Seth]

You don't have to worry about opening the computer or anything else like that. You have confirmed that the front USB ports work for USB1 devices. Therefore, the problem must be incorrect USB2 drivers.

The correct drivers can be found if you can post your motherboard model and chipset. That information can be obtained from Everest. Download it from here (http://www.softpedia.com/get/System/System-Info/Everest-Home-Edition.shtml).

Post back with the motherboard name and model, as well as the chipset. One of us can then find the correct USB2 drivers for you.

[Frenchman96]

Seth

I dont know what you mean about Chipset, but here is all the info off my motherboard cd, one no is reapeated, its not a mistake.

MATSONIC CD V5.3S

MODEL 9307C+(USB), MS9317E+(USB), MS9327E+(USB)
MS9337C+, MS9337C, MS8328E, MS8318E

[Frenchman96]

Seth

Visited site but I'm afraid you will have to steer me a bit on the site

[Seth]

Seth

Visited site but I'm afraid you will have to steer me a bit on the site

No prob.

The chipset drivers are often referred to as the motherboard drivers. The correct ones are needed for your USB2 to function.

The cd you have is for various models of your motherboard. If you insert the cd it should autoplay. It will then give you the option to install the chipset (motherboard) drivers. Install them. Check the options, as there may be a separate option to install the USB drivers. Install if it's an option and reboot. If USB2 still doesn't work, then do this:

1) Go into device manager and click on the plus sign to open the USB entries. Right click on each entry and choose Update Driver. Choose the automatic search.

2) If that doesn't do it, then click on the link I gave you, then click the large red Download circle at the top left. The next screen will show locations you can download from. There is only one (Softpedia Mirror). Click that to start the download, and choose save when prompted. In the save location box, choose Desktop. Double click the Everest icon on the desktop. It will extract and open Everest. In Everest, you will find the motherboard model and the chipset. Post back with that info.

[Frenchman96]

I knew I would miss someone out so sorry to Dan18960 and DBarrow

Dan
That e-mail was what the "techie" got from doing a Google and I think it came from Vnet.com
You have laid out some instructions which I have printed out. As I said in previous post, I will have to be careful I dont do what everyone says as I'll get in a mess, are suggesting a XP re-install amongst other things or a reformat??
Seth has suggested I get the motherboard drivers sorted/downloaded (as I think you have) and I thought I would buy more compatable DDRam tomorrow first, how does that sound??

DBarrow
I think my reply to Dan is appliciable to you also, dont worry, I will be carrying out the instructions from both of you.:)

[dbarrow]

I don't think your XP install is faulty, it just may be missing a driver.
As mentioned, the chipset drivers for the mobo must be installed. They contain *.inf files to tell XP system the correct information about the mobo and chipset.

The other possibility is a hardware problem, much more unlikely.
Only after making sure you have all the correct drivers installed do we look further down the line at a hardware problem.

[mylanta]

Gudda,
Here is how you match ram...use one of these 3 sites because they have a configurator that will match what is in there and if you buy from them they guaranty the match:
www.crucial.com (http://www.crucial.com) www.corsair.com (http://www.corsair.com) www.kingston.com (http://www.kingston.com)
even if you don't buy where they send you, buy the recommended model #

[Frenchman96]

Have done what Seth said, inserted motherboard cd, c/o each of 5 drivers to install, stick still wont work and now have a Yelow icon in my Bus xxxx

I did a r/c on each BUS/then update driver, here is result.

[Seth]

Have done what Seth said, inserted motherboard cd, c/o each of 5 drivers to install, stick still wont work and now have a Yelow icon in my Bus ####

I did a r/c on each BUS/then update driver, here is result.

The image posted shows your USB memory as being plugged in, but no drivers loaded. Did it come with a driver floppy or cd? You can also r/c on the device, choose a location to search for the driver, and point it to the motherboard cd.

Also, you said that you have a yellow icon in the BUS, was that a typo for USB? If not, then the wrong motherboard drivers were installed. On some of those motherboard cd's, you have to choose the exact model of the motherboard. Some will detect the motherboard and highlight the correct model for you. What options were listed, and do you know the model number of your motherboard? (Use Everest if needed).

[mylanta]

You know I am starting to think we are beating a dead horse and rather than try so hard to force something to work that isn't, Dan's idea of how to do a clean install may be the best solution ultimately taking the most time. Something has to be wrong witht he installs the 2 clowns did on this system, and I doubt we will get it right by simply adding to it. dan has the right order of thiings, who knows what those "turkeys" did?

[Seth]

You know I am starting to think we are beating a dead horse and rather than try so hard to force something to work that isn't, Dan's idea of how to do a clean install may be the best solution ultimately taking the most time. Something has to be wrong witht he installs the 2 clowns did on this system, and I doubt we will get it right by simply adding to it. dan has the right order of thiings, who knows what those "turkeys" did?

That's possible Rich, but I think it's unlikely. I mean a clean install is one of the first things you learn, and really, what could they have done to screw it up?...there isn't any options during the install to screw up USB detection.

I still say it's a driver issue. As the image shows, xp is detecting the drive, but claims it doesn't have a driver.

[mylanta]

That's possible Rich, but I think it's unlikely. I mean a clean install is one of the first things you learn, and really, what could they have done to screw it up?...there isn't any options during the install to screw up USB detection.

I still say it's a driver issue. As the image shows, xp is detecting the drive, but claims it doesn't have a driver.

Seth I have been here before with these damn usb flash drives and you never will fix it any other way as far as I am concerned.

[Seth]

Seth I have been here before with these damn usb flash drives and you never will fix it any other way as far as I am concerned.

Ya, I know what you mean. I avoid usb unless I have no other choice.

[dbarrow]

After looking at the jpeg, exactly WHAT device is not working?

If this is a USB flash drive ... it may have crapped.
Test it on another machine
Has it been formatted?
What happens when you plug it in?
Does it show up in your Explorer menu as a drive?

If this is a USB external drive, they require a software install and enable USB mass storage device in BIOS.

[mylanta]

If this is a USB flash drive ... it may have crapped.
Test it on another machine


I am sure I read that it works on other machines....



If this is a USB external drive, they require a software install and enable USB mass storage device in BIOS


No software is necessary for external usb drive in XP DB.

[kern]

Before you do another re-install of XP, try uninstalling all USB controllers (right-click every device under the Universal Serial Bus controllers listing, then click Uninstall to remove them one at a time), then reboot, and XP will redetect them and install drivers.

[Seth]

Gudda,

In our eagerness to help, it seems you've become somewhat overwhelmed with the multitude of suggestions.

Barring an unusual operating system problem, I think all the techs here can agree that you have a driver problem. More specifically, either your current usb drivers are incorrect, or they have somehow become corrupted.

Like others have suggested, I would also work a little longer on the driver issue before resorting to a clean install of XP. Even if you get to that point, it may be more efficient to run a repair install of XP. There are other ways to determine if XP is the problem, such as loading an alternate operating system (Knoppix). However, this is an advanced technique and not suitable for your circumstances.

In the previous post, Kern suggested removing and reinstalling the usb controllers. This is very easy to do and I believe it's the next best step.

Now above and beyond that, there's too many hands in the pot, so I'm going to remove mine. Good luck, you're in good "hands".:)

[Frenchman96]

Dbarrow
Your questions have been answered correctly by Mylanta.

Kern
Will do

Seth
I could not have explained it better myself. I would like to sort out the driver problem first, then do an assessment on my set up to see what progs can be removed or added to prevent this happening again.

Once again I must say that I visit a few forums but this one is "right on the ball" so I thank you all in anticipation.

You experts will no doubt smile at 2 e-mails I received this morning. They are from the 2 techies I dealt with and their replies are the result of me keeping them up to date on my problems.


Your quite right it seems to be recognizing USB 1 instead of 2
USB 2 PCI cards are quite cheap and win XP will use its own drivers providing service pack 2 is installed
Blue screen sounds like a graphics problem, check the pins in the connector on the monitor, bent pins have caused that one on me

Hi George , xxxxxx has a new program for you called error doctor, so if you are in the area, pick it up.
Yours xxxxxx

[Frenchman96]

Kern/Guys

I uninstalled all you sain re BUS and here is the result.

When I rebooted, I was told one x one in my ST that new hardware had been found and it gave details then it said some hardware would not work, hope that makes sense.

[Frenchman96]

Hi Guys

A slight side issue , but may have some connection??

As I am testing my memory stick in front port, when I wish to remove it, I r/c on "Safely Remove Arrows" in ST, then L/C to make it safe to remove, ok ?

When I do, a window appears but its referring to my BT BB Modem?

[dbarrow]

The window is to choose which USB device to shut down and remove. If it only shows the modem in that window, obviously the flash drive was never recognized.

Flash drive may be kaput, which is why I said try it in another machine. They are known to crap out. I posted a link a while back to an article which describes how "hot plugging" them often causes them to blow out, which is why it is suggested to "safely remove".

Rich:
The Maxtor USB external I added to daughter's machine came with an install disk and installed it's own driver set which runs as a service.
USB mass storage device was NOT enabled by default in the BIOS and I had to turn it on.

[Frenchman96]

Dbarrow

As mentioned in previous post.......

I have tried stick in other machines and it works and still has my backup on.

All the uSB ports are working as I have items plugged in and working.

I have also plugged some of the same items eg printer in the 2 front ports and they work.

This tells me as a novice that it is all about USB2 items not being recognised which the members suggest is down to missing/wrong drivers to support USB2

Hope I am right in what I say and have put it over correctly.

Also, I have tried to load drivers using the motherboard cd to no avail.

[Frenchman96]

An update guys..........

I think I am right in assuming that several members think the problem is missing drivers for USB2, if so, I would like to concentrate with your help in fixing this first.

I think it was Seth who gave me a link to d/l Everest to obtain these drivers.

I think I have in place what he suggested and I have done p/s to see if thats correct, trouble is, I dont know what to do now. I can assure you that I d/l/install/uninstall all the time, this one just confuses a little.

If/when this is solved, I will take advice about removing/adding the progs you think are best to keep pc running smoothly.

[Seth]

As stated in my previous post, I was going to let the other techs take over, but since we can all agree that we need to rule out a driver issue...

Click on the motherboard icon in Everest and post back with the motherboard name. Also post back with the CPU type, as well as what is listed under Device Description when you click on chipset.

With that information, we can post a link to the correct drivers, as well as investigate the BIOS to see if there is any unusual bios setting which may be causing the problem.

[Frenchman96]

For speed shall do one at a time so you can be reading it and telling me I've done it right, motherboard first

[Frenchman96]

Seth

Here we go with the last 2, hope its enough as I had to crop for kb size.

[mylanta]

The window is to choose which USB device to shut down and remove. If it only shows the modem in that window, obviously the flash drive was never recognized.

Flash drive may be kaput, which is why I said try it in another machine. They are known to crap out. I posted a link a while back to an article which describes how "hot plugging" them often causes them to blow out, which is why it is suggested to "safely remove".

Rich:
The Maxtor USB external I added to daughter's machine came with an install disk and installed it's own driver set which runs as a service.
USB mass storage device was NOT enabled by default in the BIOS and I had to turn it on.

Doug,
I don't doubt bios may not have had default to off, but I have had at least 15 external drives both on my systems and sold a hundred to clients
over the last 2 years and never installed drivers as they are native to XP.
I actually do remember trying on a few occasions and the cd's refused to run saying the drivers were in XP.

[kern]

Kern/Guys

I uninstalled all you sain re BUS and here is the result.

When I rebooted, I was told one x one in my ST that new hardware had been found and it gave details then it said some hardware would not work, hope that makes sense.

gudda,
Right click on the "flagged" USB Controller, and select "update driver".
If that doesnt work, you may have a resource conflict.

To check, click Start, click Run, type ---> msinfo32
In the System Summary section, click on "components",
click on "Problem Devices", the "flagged" usb controller should appear in the Device section along with an "error code".

[casey]

I hesitate to get into this but just to tell you that I have front USB ports that will work with everything (if it is USB2 it will tell me I can connect to a faster port) but will not recognize my Ipod. All my thumbdrives will work but they do tell me the drives will work with faster ports..

[mylanta]

I hesitate to get into this but just to tell you that I have front USB ports that will work with everything (if it is USB2 it will tell me I can connect to a faster port) but will not recognize my Ipod. All my thumbdrives will work but they do tell me the drives will work with faster ports..


See that is what bothers me. If it was simply a usb 2.0 issue, that is the message you should be getting is it will work as 1.1 usb. That's why I think you can play with drivers all you like, but there is another source of this conflict.

[Frenchman96]

Kern

Did what you said, first p/s is the Hardware Wizard result, second one is the msinfo32 results

[Seth]

Is there any particular reason why you're connecting your modem to the computer with a usb cable? I don't recommend this at all. Your computer has an onboard high speed network card (the one that shows disabled in your jpg). I would get an RJ 45 cable (network cable) and use that to connect your modem to the computer. Then enable the Network Card from Device Manager and reboot.

Also your motherboards support site is going through maintenance for the next month! So no help there.

The jpgs you just posted indicate a hardware conflict. Either with another device, or a bios conflict. I get the feeling the techs that worked on your computer were playing around in the bios. BTW- The bios stands for Basic Input/Output System. It is a program that allows your motherboard to communicate properly with the devices attached to it.

The bios is accessed by tapping a certain at key as the computer begins to boot. Watch the screen as the computer boots and you should see, "Press ?? to enter bios (or it might say setup)". This key is often the Del, F1, or F2. Once in the bios, you will see an option to load "Bios Defaults". Choose that option and "yes" to confirm. NOTE: Be sure to save the changes before you exit.

If the above doesn't work, I'd then resort to a clean install.

[Frenchman96]

Seth

1-where the p/s what you asked for and did they help.
2-the modem supplied by BT is a USB connection so I have no control over that.
3-to my knowledge, all modems in the uk are the same.
4-the fact that Matsonic are "down", does that prevent problem being solved or does it just mean another direction.
5-shall try what you say today.

[Frenchman96]

Seth

Tried to reach BIOS trying different keys, this is what I got.....blue screen with about 10 commands, the one highlighted in yellow was STANDARD CMOS SET UP.

The screen heading was...Ambios Siomple Setup Utility-Version 1.21.12, am I in the right place.

Also this morning, on boot up, I am getting pop up windows in ST saying >>>

[Frenchman96]

Another error message just received is attached, this one I started getting (with IE also) before my last crash.

[mylanta]

Well if I might pipe in I would give up at thyis point as I am sorry to say you have the worst motherboard made that I am aware of and that is probably the problem with all we have tried. Matsonic is actually substantially worse than anything ECS makes, it's about a $15 motherboard and I never saw one that could survive any changes or additions at all. OMG and a Sis chipset...forgetabout it you guys we will never fix this. I remember changing a mouse one time on one of these and it blew out the board. I would try clean new install but I think you will be buying a "real" motherboard....

[Seth]

Yes gudda, that's the bios. You will find default options such as: Optimal Defaults, Fail Safe, and/or Bios Defaults. Go ahead and try each, save the changes and reboot. After each one check the usb's in Device Manager to see if one still has the "!". Test the memory stick after each change as well.

If that doesn't work, I would clean install.

BTW-Agreed on that Rich.

[Frenchman96]

Seth
I cant actually find those options, Optimal Defaults, Fail Safe, and/or Bios Defaults.I know! you are going to give up on me :sing:

Mylanta
In anticipation of maybe needing a new motherboard, I am getting prices now.
Anything I need to be wary of like bad brands etc or anything I need to make clear to shop?

[Seth]

The bios screen will look like this (http://www.techpowerup.com/reviews/ECS/PF5/images/b_cmos.jpg).

If that's not what your seeing, post back with the manufacturer of your computer. Eg: Dell, HP, etc...

[Frenchman96]

I am seeing that Seth, just cant see your options

BTW, just called local pc wholesaler and he quoted me

£29 for a AS Rock K741GX
£20 to fit
£20 to re-install windows but I can do that.

He asked me about socket 8 I think but that would be established if I took it in

[Seth]

Ok, at least one of those options has to be there. It's probably in a sub menu. Just go into each option to find it. Each option will only have one screen.

I wouldn't worry about a new mobo just yet...

[mylanta]

Seth
I cant actually find those options, Optimal Defaults, Fail Safe, and/or Bios Defaults.I know! you are going to give up on me :sing:

Mylanta
In anticipation of maybe needing a new motherboard, I am getting prices now.
Anything I need to be wary of like bad brands etc or anything I need to make clear to shop?

It would be hard to get anything as bad as Matsonic though ECS and Pc Chips are nearby....
Asus, Abit, Msi, Gigabyte, or Biostar are all good makers. You want Intel chipset on that board as well, no Sis or Via if Intel cpu or Nvidia if Amd.

[Frenchman96]

Hi Guys

I wont be online tomorrow till afternoon so will close with these thoughts.

Seth
I have looked but cannot find where you want me to go. Perhaps if you check on your BIOS, you can give me step x step?

Mylanta
IThe local whol;esaler offerd me a AS Rock K741GX at £29 ??????

When I just switched on, I got 2 error messages and had to reboot, this is had the crash started, the odd error message on different things and more often, something not right.

[mylanta]

Hi Guys

I wont be online tomorrow till afternoon so will close with these thoughts.

Seth
I have looked but cannot find where you want me to go. Perhaps if you check on your BIOS, you can give me step x step?

Mylanta
IThe local whol;esaler offerd me a AS Rock K741GX at £29 ??????

When I just switched on, I got 2 error messages and had to reboot, this is had the crash started, the odd error message on different things and more often, something not right.


Please forget AS Rock is complete junk....use the names I gave you unles you want to keep going through this.

[Seth]

I'd love to give you a step by step for the bios, but I can't can't as there are hundreds of different versions. The best I can say is poke around the bios until you find "Load Defaults". If you're certain it's not there, then you have a rare bios that doesn't have that option. In which case it has to be manually reset from a jumper on the motherboard.

Anyway, skip the bios thing, as I see that you're now getting missing files. It's now time for that clean install. In post #11, Dan gave an excellent step by step for this procedure. All I would add is to do the full ntfs format as opposed to the quick ntsf format. The reason for this is the missing files may be caused by a bad portion on your hard drive. By doing the full format, XP will also run a "chkdsk". The chkdsk will find bad areas of the drive and either repair them, or isolate them so that part of the drive isn't used.

Good luck! Post back with any issues or questions that may arise.:)

[dbarrow]

Just a thought out of curiosity, not to get you off track but,
What size HD do you have XP installed in and is it in a partition?
Is your total drive capacity showing or has it reduced itself?

As Seth mentioned, there are two ways to lose system files, run chkdsk and defrag the drive to see if there is any physical problem with the HD.

IF XP finds itself shorted on space, it will devour itself by shedding files...

IF you find a bunch of lost files, strings, clusters, blocks, you could have HD problems and a bunch of chewed up system files, a good reason for many malfunctions in XP.

What was the original reason for the new install?
Is this a problem that is repeating itself?

I have seen instances where the filte table gets fubar and XP suddenly starts reporting missing drivers and functions, because they are missing as far as the OS is concerned.
If it is data corruption caused by missing strings in files, chkdsk sometimes can't fix it.

[Frenchman96]

DBarrow

Thanks for your reply, I must again state my case to make it easier for you guys to help me , or not, as the case may be. A lot of the things you are saying, especially this reply of yours, I dont understand. I dont think I have ever received so many replies and offers of help from a forum and it is very much appreciated. I think it is getting a little confusing which I suppose is natural, if one speaks to 10 techies, there is bound to be different opinions. I will list at end of post what I think.


What size HD do you have XP installed in and is it in a partition? >>>>>>
I dont have a clue


Is your total drive capacity showing or has it reduced itself?>>>>>>>>
ditto

run chkdsk and defrag the drive to see if there is any physical problem with the HD.>>>>>>>>>>>>>did onr this morning but left it running and window had gone on return


What was the original reason for the new install?>>>>>>>>>>>>>
I started getting various error messages
I was warned IE/FF had encountered a problem and would close down
Blue screen then had to close down
various things I cant remember


Is this a problem that is repeating itself?
Not exactly, remember I have had a reformat twice, some HTJ have been done, I have done scans with all the progs I have so since the last techie and re-install, it has been running ok except for my card reader/memory stick not being recognised by pc. That was when I started posting with you but I stress, as a LAYMAN/DUMMIE I know my own pc and I am not confident I wont get a lot more trouble.

Is there a chance that once misiing drivers for USB2 are found, it will solve it.
Even if they are, is there an argument for new motherboard.
Do I need a new reformat and re-install,I assume a re-install means reformat?
Am I approaching an area that makes us wonder if I need new pc.

By now hopefully, you will have guessed that I am reasonably well mannered and dont want to upset anyone as I have seen some forums go haywire. After saying that, I am getting near the throwing out the window situation and dont know what route to take. If there are any p/screens I can take to show you my specs, please ask away as it will be easier and more precise.

[dbarrow]

My point to all this is a bad HD block or a fubar file table from lost strings and file blocks could have been the cause of all the problems all along.

Lets say you get a self destruct in a sector of a HD platter that contains XP. Files are still there but parts of them are missing. You run chkdsk and it finds and marks off the bad sectors but can't recover the file. Now the file is gone.
There may be enough of XP left to boot, but when you run a particular function and it calls a file that is no longer there and working ... BSOD, crash, malfunction.

Doing a fresh install without running chkdsk (error correction on) or a HD util that tests and checks sectors may result in an incomplete write of the fresh install as it is writing some of it to bad sectors and blocks.

I would look at a fresh install ....
after running a HD utility (most brands have one that you can DL) so you know you are doing the clean install on a good/tested HD.

Chasing after a driver problem could be an exercise in futility if chkdsk or the HD utility finds a bunch of bad sectors or lost strings. Many more files could be corrupt and the problem will only get worse.

[Frenchman96]

Dbarrow

It sounds as though you are channeling on to a fresh install but sorry again, I do not understand half of what you said in reply.

Whilst waiting for a reply, I have decided this morning to at least buy another 256 ddram (but matched to the one installed now) and I will take unit to shop to make sure there is no mistake.

I told my techie/personal friend from another forum about your forum and help given to me and he made a visit.

He was very impressed with all of the members who replied to my post and said to carry on patiently. His comments were that my motherboard is not the best in the world, as said, but he thinks it is a BIOS issue and a driver issue.

[Seth]

Gudda,

Your main storage device (hard drive) has lost files. The hard drive is similar to a floppy drive, but it's self contained, faster, and stores much more information. The lost files indicate that there is a bad portion(s) on the disk that's in the hard drive. In fact, your problems may not even have been the ram, but rather the hard drive.

I highly recommend the clean install. It will accomplish the following:

1) Rule out XP as the problem, as you will be starting with a fresh copy of XP.

2) It will indicate if the hard drive is the problem. The full NTFS format (not quick) will check the hard drive and correct errors as necessary. If you're still getting missing files after the clean install, then we know that your hard drive needs to be replaced.

Bottom line: The clean install is what you need to do in order for us to assist you further.

Note #2: I would hold off the ram, as there is no need to spend money on something you may not need. You indicated that at 256MB you're computer is very fast and suits your needs. So unless you're running heavy video applications, 256MB is ok. For example, my XP computer has 512 MB of ram, but removing one 256 stick provides no performance increase for what I use the computer for (Basically internet, Email, word processing, etc).

Note #2: When you're on the main bios screen, look at the very bottom below your main options. Do you see something like, "F5-Load Bios Defaults"?

[Frenchman96]

Seth/Dbarrow

Things have changed a bit, I decided to visit a "proper pc shop" nearby, told him my problem with USB2 and tips re ddram.

I now have 1g, and to make absolutely sure, I bought 2 x 512 (400) so i would know that memory would be totally compatable, he also said I could put the surplus 256 in a vacant slot so I have.

he did all I did re drivers to no avail, he said hard drive was ok, ports ok, and he said it was/is a software problem and needs a re-install.

I paid £70 for the ram but no charge for his 45 mins inspection.

I am now about to do re-install in 20 minutes so if any comment needed, you have 20 mins.

[Seth]

During the install, delete all partitions, and create a new one. Use the maximum size for the partition when prompted. XP will also create a smaller partition for it's own use. You don't have to worry about that partition. Remember full NTFS format...not quick.

[mylanta]

Good idea Gudda,
I still do not think it is a driver issue and believe the clean install is the best idea. If usb works great then so be it other install was corrupted, but I would bet the farm, the board is bad and causing all of this and new install will prove that. I think this is a chipset problem. With Sis and Matsonic "at the plate" only a fool would bet against me here as they represent the very poorsest quality in computing.

[Seth]

There is no way a proper hard drive diagnostic (as well as the techs other tests) could be performed in 45 minutes. A proper read/write test alone would take 1 to 2 hours.

Furthermore, there is no way for him to conclude a software problem without the clean install being performed yet.

[Frenchman96]

Seth

There is no way a proper hard drive diagnostic (as well as the techs other tests) could be performed in 45 minutes. A proper read/write test alone would take 1 to 2 hours.
Hear what you say Seth but I am puttyin the hands of techs.

During the install, delete all partitions, and create a new one. Use the maximum size for the partition when prompted. XP will also create a smaller partition for it's own use. You don't have to worry about that partition. Remember full NTFS format...not quick.
Not sure I know how to do that, suppose I will start and see how I go. If its very important, can you do a stepxstep asap please so I can carry on before football.

Mylanta
Time will tell, will keep you posted.If you never hear from me again, you will know I have followed pc out of window.

[Seth]

During the install XP will show you the partitions, but there will likely only be one. Delete any or all partitions. It will be displayed on the screen what key to press to delete the partition(s). When they are deleted, you will see the option to create a new one. Create a new one, then XP will ask you if you want to install on that partition...choose yes of course. Right after that, you will get the format options. Choose "NTFS Format - FULL". That's it, the rest of the prompts are straight forward.

[Frenchman96]

Seth

Thanks for that, sounds straight forward, just 1 question, for Dbarrow really, he said to have floppy(which I have) first in boot up sequence.

If I am booting up with cd, should'nt cd rom be first?

[Seth]

Put the floppy first, cdrom second, hard drive third.

If there is no boot floppy in the drive, the computer will then boot from the cdrom. It's good to have the floppy first, as many diagnostic programs need to run from a bootable floppy.

[Frenchman96]

I will do this after world cup as times moves on but 2 last questions then I sign off.

1-how do I actually change the boot up order

2-is the hdd the IDE as it does not actually sasy Hard Drive.

[Seth]

I will do this after world cup as times moves on but 2 last questions then I sign off.

1-how do I actually change the boot up order

2-is the hdd the IDE as it does not actually sasy Hard Drive.

1) It's in the bios (You'll see boot menu, boot options, or boot priority). If not, then watch the screen as the computer starts, you should see, "Press ?? for boot options".

2) Yes

[RAK]

You may not believe this folks, but I may have just re-inacted the crime. I was curious about this problem, so I rummaged through my bin and found a USB2 1Gb. flashdrive(I'm amazed; it really flashes!:eek: ) and plugged it into my USB hub. It was instantly recognized by Windows, but it did inform me that since my hub was USB1, it would run faster in one of my USB2 ports; SO, I reached down and plugged it into my front port, and Lo and Behold; I get an error message: "USB not recognized! And, yes; it works in the back ports at USB2 speed. ON the front port, though, except for the initial warning message, it is totally invisible, not flashing and does not appear in Explorer. I have used simple devices(eg. joysticks, microphones) in it before, so I know it works. But it is true that I have one of those "$15 wonders" ECS motherboards Rich mentions. I'm not concerned about my machine; I prefer using hubs rather than suffering backstrains and the possibility of accidentilly kicking the drive with my restless leg syndrome; and besides, no use in stretching this thread to 160 posts.:). I'll just get a USB2 compliant hub. May be the easiest solution for this.

Post Script:

Well, I spoke too soon; this may not be the same problem. Though I am sure that the front port worked in the past, it doesn't work with anything now. I tried a joystick and a memory card reader and still get the same error message. Aand reviewing your earlier posts, I see that your drive did not work in the back ports, either. Still, since my other ports work fine, I'll stick with a hub. Good luck, Gudda, and I hope the guys can help fix your problem.

[Frenchman96]

Seth

I reach the bios/advanced setup/boot sequence/all blue with yellow writing from memory.

I use the arrows to move up and down but it does not move anything?????

I have the order from you, all is ready, but I need to know HOW to MOVE the selections

[Seth]

Seth

I reach the bios/advanced setup/boot sequence/all blue with yellow writing from memory.

I use the arrows to move up and down but it does not move anything?????

I have the order from you, all is ready, but I need to know HOW to MOVE the selections

Damn. Is that a USB keyboard? Use PS2 keyboard if you have one.

[Seth]

Actually, you wouldn't have been able to get into the bios if the keyboard wasn't working. How did you move around the selections before?

[mommalina]

gudda96 wrote: Mylanta
Time will tell, will keep you posted.If you never hear from me again, you will know I have followed pc out of window.

Gudda, wait for me! :flame: I just may join you! :grouphug:

Hang in there; this too will pass. :rockon:

Lina

[mylanta]

Put the floppy first, cdrom second, hard drive third.

If there is no boot floppy in the drive, the computer will then boot from the cdrom. It's good to have the floppy first, as many diagnostic programs need to run from a bootable floppy.

Yep good reasoning and also this way, there is no need to change the boot order again as well as this is the way I leave all mine.

[mylanta]

Damn. Is that a USB keyboard? Use PS2 keyboard if you have one.
Maybe you need to move to the side first using side arrows, as many of the crapola mobo bios have nothing you can change on the first screen?

[Frenchman96]

Have just seen our rubish team exit the world cup so what next?

I only have this keyboard, so are you saying I will have to try arrows to r/l and experiment?

Actually, you wouldn't have been able to get into the bios if the keyboard wasn't working. How did you move around the selections before?

Seth
I never said the keyboard was not working??

[Frenchman96]

Just been told, I make selection then use page up/down, wish me luck

[Seth]

Ok. I thought you were having a problem navigating through the options, but you meant changing them.

[mylanta]

[quote=gudda96]Have just seen our rubish team exit the world cup so what next?

I only have this keyboard, so are you saying I will have to try arrows to r/l and experiment?

Gudda,
You said you cannot do anything in the bios. I said then move to other screens which should appear across the top by using right left arrows as the first one may be non adjustable.

[Frenchman96]

BINGO !!!!

Done it guys, it was page up/down.

Will write tomorrow, need a lie down.

[Guest110]

BINGO !!!!

Done it guys, it was page up/down.

Will write tomorrow, need a lie down.

I thought we were just about to start a game then:)
Bingo.. im disapointed now

[Seth]

BINGO !!!!

Done it guys, it was page up/down.

Will write tomorrow, need a lie down.

You scared the hell out of me gudda! But then I was happy as I thought the joyous BINGO was because the clean install fixed the usb problem. So then I was disappointed.

Man, all that time you were playing with the bios! LOL...sorry, I didn't realize what exact problem you were having in the bios. I thought you couldn't select anything at all.

Ummm...so ya, page up/down, sometimes plus and minus keys.

[RAK]

Gudda, I applaud your perserverence, and predict that by the time you have this resolved, YOU will be the expert:first::typing: This thread is quickly approaching 100 posts! Kinda like watching "24".:spy:

[Frenchman96]

Morning all

Have just written to David Beckam to ask if the team needs an expert pc coach, wow...I feel like one.

I would like to make this my official thank you to all who contributed to my result, you were all very patient. In my defence of what appeared to be glaring stupidicy at times....it's one thing to understand "things" but sometimes harder to explain them to rookies.

Anyway, apart from some tweaking, I am there apart from some last questions if I may, then I am sure you would like to close thread, although I am going to start another one based on "what is the perfect setup?" or right prog selections.

1-I have mislaid my camera xd card so cannot do final test but card reader shows in "my computer" once inserted in front ports so I assume that is ok and my memory stick works ok.

2-I am being asked to activate windows but they are asking for a new key no, I assume because I have re-installed a few times, what do I do about this?

3-I have done windows updates but it only shows 3 of them, I know they will be the latest (1 July) but dont I need any before those dates.

4-I have sp2 cd, should I install that or find sp2 on the net.

[mylanta]

Morning all

Have just written to David Beckam to ask if the team needs an expert pc coach, wow...I feel like one.

I would like to make this my official thank you to all who contributed to my result, you were all very patient. In my defence of what appeared to be glaring stupidicy at times....it's one thing to understand "things" but sometimes harder to explain them to rookies.

Anyway, apart from some tweaking, I am there apart from some last questions if I may, then I am sure you would like to close thread, although I am going to start another one based on "what is the perfect setup?" or right prog selections.

1-I have mislaid my camera xd card so cannot do final test but card reader shows in "my computer" once inserted in front ports so I assume that is ok and my memory stick works ok.

2-I am being asked to activate windows but they are asking for a new key no, I assume because I have re-installed a few times, what do I do about this?

3-I have done windows updates but it only shows 3 of them, I know they will be the latest (1 July) but dont I need any before those dates.

4-I have sp2 cd, should I install that or find sp2 on the net.


Install SP2 by cd is fine, activate is because of new install and if internet refiuses, use telephone activation and explain that to Ms and they will issue number. Updates that show are only the ones you can uninstall if you are looking at Add/Remove programs but that sounds really low.
After you do SP2 go to Windows Updates on Start menu and do all 3 categories.

[Frenchman96]

Mylanta

I have just tried to install sp2 from cd as its the last tweak I need to do now but halfway through, I was told there was a missing file, forgot to p/s so cant help with details, should I try again or download it from web.

[mylanta]

Then download it and see if that makes a difference....have you cleaned cd and made sure there are no scratches? Perhaps also try another burner or cd drive if possible?

[Frenchman96]

Mylanta

Going to try cd again, I tried online and it said I already had it installed.

If I did, it would show in system properties would it not or/and add/remove.

I did a start/search for sp2 and found a really full window which is too large to attach so I have done 2 crops selection to see if it throws any light.

Whilst waiting, I will try again...not over yet eh?

[Seth]

I've never seen that before gudda. It looks like you have the Sp2 files copied to your hard drive, but for whatever reason, it's not installed. If it were, your System Properties would indicate such.

In any of those jpg's do you see anything like "SP2 Install"? You can also try searching the XP cd for "sp2". Look for the installer, or open the sp2 folders and see if there is an installer.

You can also try going to add/remove programs. Put a check in the box up top that say's "Show Updates". Is SP2 there? Click on the change/remove, is one option "install"?

In other words, if you find the installer, go for it.

[mylanta]

I think this problem is bigger than us, and as I said earlier, it is probably the motherboard needs to go...this smacks of a chipset problem.

[Frenchman96]

I tried to install sp2 from cd again and I did p/s on a window I got.

Also, although I had it before format, I dod not have the "show updates" in add/remove.

[mylanta]

Is this SP2 cd from Microsoft or did you make it yourself?
If you say Microsoft, then I would say for sure "death of motherboard", bad ram, bad hard drive or all 3 etc...
None of this makes any sense at all and cannot be software.

[Frenchman96]

I have just done the search sp2 p/s again but have moved the columns to show you the dates.

when trying tonight, it looks as though it ended as a partial update and some of course are the original, but how if a format has been done.

perhaps I should do a complete remove then start again with sp2 update??

[Frenchman96]

I got it from ms some time ago.

Should I do a removal of all sp2 files?

[Seth]

http://www.kickenhardware.net/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=30&d=1151860355

Insert your XP SP2 cd, and change "copy files from" to point to your cd drive (should be the D drive). You can also click on Browse and change the target location to the SP2 folder on the cd.

If that doesn't work, your add/remove programs should list SP2. The "show updates" box is just to the left of "Sort By". Uninstall SP2 and download it from Windows Update.

[Frenchman96]

Seth

Copy what files where from, if I insert cd, its on autorun, and I have totally removed all sp2 files.

Also, no box left of sort by

[Seth]

Your XP cd say's SP2 right?...If so, then it gets installed when you installed XP. I have no idea why SP2 isn't showing up in your system properties.

Is your XP cd silver with a hologram on it? And again, does it say SP2?

Also, is there a listing for SP2 in add/remove programs?

[mylanta]

I see the screen showing SP1 is installed Seth not Sp2.

[Frenchman96]

Seth

My xp sp2 is a guenuine one that I ordered direct from ms which as you know is the option everyone has rather than download from net.

My xp hone editipn is silver or gold, hard to tell and it came installed with pc and the key no on unit, its an OEM product.

yes sp1 came installed with the pc and I assume included with xp as sp2 probably was not out then, once again I assume that anyone buying pc now would have sp2 included with the o/s?

Are there any p/s I can do to help and was the p/s showing missing file any help.

Did you note Seth that "show updates" option was not there?

[Seth]

Seth

My xp sp2 is a guenuine one that I ordered direct from ms which as you know is the option everyone has rather than download from net.

My xp hone editipn is silver or gold, hard to tell and it came installed with pc and the key no on unit, its an OEM product.

Did you note Seth that "show updates" option was not there?

I don't know why it's not there, although I would guess it's because of a slight XP version difference, or it will show once you have SP2.

Is that USB memory working now? Can you access your files?

Also, I'm not clear about the SP2 thing. Did you try to install from the SP2 cd and that's when that error occured? And now everytime you try to install or download it, you get, "Sp2 is already installed"...right?

If so, click here (http://support.microsoft.com/KB/875350)for info on how to remove sp2, then install it from windows update.

[Frenchman96]

Is that USB memory working now? Can you access your files?Yes, have reinstalled my backups from it and all is well on USB ports and items that I insert in them.

Also, I'm not clear about the SP2 thing. Did you try to install from the SP2 cd and that's when that error occured? And now everytime you try to install or download it, you get, "Sp2 is already installed"...right?
Not quite, I tried to install sp2 from cd but partway through it stopped and gave 1 or 2 error messages which I posted, from memory, it was during extraction and said file xyz was missing but forget the ACTUAL wording.

I have since done a search/sp2/delete so I think I have removed sp2 all together. I beilieve sp2 carries some protaction so I am now concerned about not having it. I have been on to windows updates and google but cannot find a direcr/simple route to downloading sp2??

Mylanta
I did the telephone activation so thanks for that, I was pleasantly surprised that I did not have to pay, some scaremongers said I would.

[Frenchman96]

Dont know if this will help or hinder....

1-was told (right or wrongly) that I need 3 in 1 installer to d/l sp2??

2-Today mu auto updates downloaded quite a few ok.

3-then pop up in ST saying I had auto updates and choice oinstalling, c/o express, then message saying unable to, see attachments.

Cant add my second jpeg attacment so will try on new reply

[Frenchman96]

Ok this time

[mylanta]

Makes little sense that an installer that came out a year after SP2, would be necessary to install to install Sp2. This sounds like ram wackiness though I believe the whole system is actually toast anyway due to junko motherboard.
If you have limitless time to put into this system, you will actually be on the Starship Enterprise in totally uncharted space.
I remember buying a system on eBay as a second system that had a Matsonic board. Everyday I had to use a different mouse, I had 5 of them because one would only work for 24 hours and then refuse to work. I updated from Windows 95 to 98 at some point and my backup hard drive disappeared forever. I worked on my first pc and all the files were there, but would not show in bios on the Matsonic "beauty". Towards the end to turn it on, you had to bash the right side of the case twice. The jumpers would not short with screw driver and power button of course quit working because of that. You also had to hold the monitor plug to see anything on screen and one day I just unplugged it and tossed the whole thing in the dumpster...oh it was 1 year old! I decided that everything in it was suspect so I kept nothing from it.
This is the quality you are trying to resurrect!

[Frenchman96]

Then download it and see if that makes a difference....have you cleaned cd and made sure there are no scratches? Perhaps also try another burner or cd drive if possible?
__________________


Mylanta

I forgot to take notice of this suggestion, took pc to techie, he tried to install, got the same as me, THEN discovered, 2 scratches.

So I have just arrived home, started up with the intention of getting this off to you but at the moment, all is well, more later.

[Seth]

So everything is fine now other than SP2?

Well, I recommend getting it installed. Not only does it have new security updates, but more and more applications require it.

Click here (http://support.microsoft.com/KB/875350)for various SP2 removal procedures, then download it from Windows Update.

[Frenchman96]

Seth

Not quite, good news and bad news.

1--sp2 is now safely installed and it shows in p/s to follow.

2--the box for "show updates in add/remove" has now appeared as you suggested.

3--my auto updates is showing the yellow shield in ST and when I click to update (10 of them) it goes so far then says unable to.

I have done 3 p/s and BTW, I had him remove the 256 ram stick so I now have 1 gb and its flying.

having a day in lakes tomorroe so offline but available up to 10 tonight

[Seth]

That's great news!

The main problems have now been resolved. Well, other than Rich's concern with your motherboard:)

As to the jpg you posted about the update (kb910437), download and run this (http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?amp;displaylang=en&familyid=363F50FC-049E-4504-A987-A78BA8746E39&displaylang=en) Microsoft fix, then try auto updates again. If it doesn't work, I'll need more info, as in exact error codes or any other information regarding why it won't install.

[Frenchman96]

Seth

Installed fix and ran it to no avail sorry.

Position is that if |I visit WUpdates, there are 33 to install, it starts installing then fails on 33 so something is stopping them.

On adice of MS knowledge base, I went to update history/c/o just one failed update and you will see error message which will apply to all I assume

[Seth]

You've got SP2 now, as well as some other updates, so that's good enough for now. It's time to start enjoying your computer.

Leave Automatic Updates turned on, and you'll probably find that future updates will be fine.

Start a new thread if you need further advice.

[Frenchman96]

Seth

Thanks for that, fine by me as we are JUST going off to lakes for the day.

A final thank you to you, DB,Mylanta and others who helped me.

Thread closed