"NTLDR is missing" error

[SantaMufasa]

I was removing some unwanted programs from my Dell PC (including the foul Conduit malware). When I tried rebooting my PC (running under XP Pro), it immediately shows this error:

NTLDR is missing
Press Ctrl+Alt+Del to restart

I tried booting up in "Safe Mode", but it doesn't get to Safe Mode; it just gives me the same error.

I do not have an NT boot CD. I have not recently backed up my PC, so I'm not to keen on the idea of reformatting my hard-drive.

What viable alternatives can you recommend?

Mufasa
(aka Dave of Sandy, Utah, USA)
“People may forget what you say, but they will never forget how you made them feel.

 

[edfair]

From another site:

http://forum.pcmech.com/showthread.php?t=231747

Ed Fair
Give the wrong symptoms, get the wrong solutions.

 

[rclarke250]

Go here and read for an easy fix. Unless the hdd is damaged, but sounds more like it was caused by the malware.

 

[goombawaho]

If easy fix doesn't work, check hard drive out with manuf. diagnostic tool. It could be toasty.

"Living tomorrow is everyone's sorrow.
Modern man's daydreams have turned into nightmares.

 

[SantaMufasa]

Thanks guys...the links all look interesting. I tried multiple suggestions from the links, but I ran out of time and ended up taking my PC down to our local "PC Laptops (We Love You!)" repair facility.

<@ Ed Fair> I went to lunch with Mark and his cute family today. You must be proud of them !
</@ Ed Fair>

Mufasa
(aka Dave of Sandy, Utah, USA)
“People may forget what you say, but they will never forget how you made them feel.