can't install windows, missing files during install, multiple tries 1

[mldmld]

I have an HP desktop that was giving me errors. Telling me Windows files were missing. So i figured I would reinstall Windows XP

During the install process, when Setup is copying files, I get errors that certain files can't be copied, ie SP2.cab, and other inf and dll files. So the Install eventually crashes and gives me a blue screen. I have tried Windows XP Pro, the HP recovery CD's, and Windows 2000, but none will install, and certain files are missing.

I have tried to install a new motherboard, different hard drive, and different cd drive, but still the same thing. No OS will install.

The only thing i might try is new cables to hard drive and cd drive. I don't want to buy a new AMD processor too, but I might

Any suggestions are appreciated. Thanks

 

[bcastner]

MS KB article on the issue:

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=257954

I would format the partition to be used for XP as FAT32, copy the XP CD to an \i386 folder on the hard disk drive, and run a DOS-mode installation:

http://support.microsoft.com/defaul...port/kb/articles/q307/8/48.asp&NoWebContent=1

Be certain your BIOS is the latest version before trying the installation.

 

[mldmld]

looks good!! will try tonite. Thanks

 

[linney]

Alluded to in Bill's links is bad RAM. These are some testers for that possibility.

http://www.memtest86.com/

http://oca.microsoft.com/en/windiag.asp

 

[mldmld]

It was the memory, one of the pc3200 sticks was bad or causing a conflict. Thanks for the help