explorer.exe 99% cpu & won't boot into safe mode

[Japetto12]

Hello,

I have a client running WinXP on a Dell Inspiron laptop. Recently, after the PC has been running for 20 minutes or so, the explorer.exe process will shoot up to 99% bringing the PC to a stand still. This is with all the power options turned off, no screensaver or anything, just boots up and then shoots up to 99% after awhile. So next step is safe mode but the laptop won't boot into safe mode...it lets you log on and then you get the window that says "you are in safe mode...do you want to continue..." and before i can reply the window disappears and I just get a black screen with Safe Mode at the bottom...I look at the processes and explorer.exe isn't even running. Any help would be appreciated. I think if I can get it booting into safe mode then my problem will be fixed. thanks!

 

[Japetto12]

Now I can't even get Windows to boot normally, it looks like it is botting ok into normal mode and then it goes right to that black Safe Mode screen and just sits there. I've tried last known good configuration and every other thing I could think of. It's running some Dell test I was able to access during startup & then I'll try a chkdsk from a command promt. any other ideas as to what to do or as to what might be going on? She has only had the laptop 3 weeks. It looks like a possible re-install. thanks for all your guys' help!

 

[linney]

Is there any Bios problems, perhaps an Update is available, or just resetting it to Safe Defaults?

To check your RAM.

http://www.memtest86.com/

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

To check your Hard Drive.

The drive manufacturer will have free diagnostic software to check your drive for problems.

You can also load the Recovery Console and run ChkDsk /r to check for problems.

HOW TO: Install and Use the Recovery Console for Windows XP (Q307654)

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q307/6/54.asp

An easy to follow recovery console description when unable to start computer due to corrupt registry.

http://www.digitalwebcast.com/2002/03_mar/tutorials/cw_boot_toot.htm

This is a layman's version of Q307545 in simple language.


If they don't work you could try repairing windows itself by running it over itself. You will lose all your windows updates but your files will be untouched.

How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade (Reinstallation) of Windows XP (Q315341)

http://support.microsoft.com/support/kb/articles/q315/3/41.asp