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HD just died - Please Help

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Trebax

Technical User
Nov 27, 2002
34
GB
Hi

I was using XP pro yesterday to copy some CD's, when all of a sudden I tried to access my C drive and I got an error message: C:/ is write protected or corrupt - can not access.

I immediately decided to restart the computer, but when I tried nothing happend. So I decided to restart using the reset switch.

The computer then booted to a black screen and continues to do so, and can't get any further. It goes past the Mainboard logo and then just before you get the 'starting XP' with the bar in the middle, the screen goes black and nothing happens. The drive light stays on for a few seconds then goes off.

I have entered the BIOS and checked everything is ok there - it is. I can also do an 'auto detect' for my hard drive and the BIOS does find it.

I have also tried connecting the HD to the other IDE and still the same problem. When I completely disconnect the HD I get the on screen error message that says something like - 'System boot failure, replace system disk and press any key'

I am completely stumped as what to do. I have no back up and I don't want to buy another HD and start again.

Please has anyone got any ideas???

Many thanks in advance
Trebax

My System:
XP Pro
Norton Anti Virus and Norton System Works
P4 2.53 Mhz
512 RAM
80 GB HD (when it works)
Via P4B400 FX motherboad

 
Try booting from the XP install CD and see if you can get into recovery console -
If you can, try running chkdsk, fixboot & fixmbr.

If you managed to load recovery console, but chkdsk etc didn't help, try a repair reinstall (leaves settings, apps, data intact - need to reapply latest M$ updates) -
 
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