rundll32.exe - Application Error

[pbunyon]

XP home, Dell P IV, 768 RAM, restarted computer after being down for a year, ran MS updates (50)and now am recieveing several application errors, first the above at attempted to access display settings, then at attempting from run command prompt another error, now run command doesnt load, mmc doesn't load, basically nothing will load to allow troubleshooting: msconfig,event viewer.
Off to boot to safe mode and run virus check, ad/spyware detection, smitRem.
Also noted from PC Doctor a pattern test error 3311-205 and a random seek test error 3211-202.
Any advise and direction would be greatly appreciated.

Paul

 

[linney]

Does it need a new CMOS battery? Is there any update for your Bios?

Has the computer been subject to any rougher than usual handling that might have shaken some card loose?

To check your RAM.

http://www.memtest86.com/

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

http://www.simmtester.com/PAGE/products/doc/docinfo.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

If they don't work you could try repairing windows 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

This will remove all the Updates you have installed, you can then install them several at a time, pausing to check serviceability, before going on with the next few Updates. That way if and Update caused your problem you should be able to isolate it.

Another way you might be able to remove Updates, one at a time, in a nonfunctional machine is to adapt and use this article.

How to remove Windows XP Service Pack 2 from your computer

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/875350/en-us?FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH