When I try to start up my comp, it says that the file C:\windows\system32\config\system is missing (I think I got the file name correct;)) I tried to repair with the XP disk, but it doesn't repair it, it just brings me to a screen that says C:\WINDOWS> Is there sometrhing I need to do there?

Is this on YOUR main pc?

Yep, it is.

i had that happen on an old dell

had to reformat.. try repairing and if that doesn't work, welp i'm not really sure what else to do


-g

There is no way that I'm reformatting again, unless I absolutely have to. I just did that like 2 or 3 months ago.

What am I supposed to do with the repair with the windows disk? Is it supposed to work on it's own when I press 'r' at the main screen, or do I have to do something?

I believe you have to do something but I dont know what? Probally a google search is in order here. Sounds like you need to have a disk image made up after you get this fixed up, then you wouldnt mind formatting so much.

Hi, I'm a first timer here.

Just baught this Advent 7011 laptop off e-bay without any operating system or restore discs.

The problem is that I can not get it to boot to XP. I have a Windows XP disc but the installation does not start by itself - I have set the CD-ROM as first boot priority in BIOS. I also have an XP boot diskette but it does not do anything. This laptop is not my main computer but I can not make any more boot diskettes as my main computer does not have a floppy drive (it does have a CD-RW)

The other problem is that I am not even able to work in DOS as it keeps asking to "type the name of Command Interpreter (eg - C:\WINDOWS\COMMAND.COM)"

Please help - could there be a hardware problem . Also I will appreciate if the advice is explained in step-by -step to- do format as unlike you guys I am just an amateur on comps.

Thanks

at the prompt you can type help - which gives a list of commands available

1stly try chkdsk /r

this will fix any errors on the hard drive - if no joy

try this http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;307545

I've had to do this on a few machines - it does work, just a little long winded

re - vic

if its not booting from the cd - check that its a proper windows cd ie gold or silver hologram finish etc
or even a new disc - if you put the disc in your pc - does it boot from it then (obviously don't let it continue)

is there some way i can reload the command.com file on to the laptop.

Well, I got some instructions from here. http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_sys32.htm I'll see if that can get me through it.

You have to get to the root directory not the WINDOWS folder, Do not do a repair just do a clean install of XP. It would format your hard drive it will only format the drivers so to speak. Just make sure you have all the drivers you need first.

Do you have 2 HDD on your rig by chance?

I do, but the second one is just a 15GB (see sig).

It is possible that when you are running the XP CD its only seeing one drive, The one without the o/s on it. Therefore its not giving you the available options. Make sure the boot sequence is correct and that the CD ROM is the 1st boot. Another thing I found was the the XP disc does not work when the computer has been restarted or turned off abnormally. Make sure its not giving the safe mode screen and that.

It's definitely seeing the right drive. I have it dual-booting with linux (Xandros), and it gives me the option to go into Xandros or XP.
Yep, and I've got it going to the cdrom as first boot.

The only other thing I can think of is when you get the XP disc going. At the first menu dont choose repair,choose install fresh. When it goes through its paces it asks you this again. Then choose R for repair.

See how that goes!

Ok, I'll try that. Thanks!

Hey, I was thinking, is there anything I can do from Xandros, like replace the file, or something? 'Cause I can boot into that.

I tried the thing from the site I mentioned before, and it worked! I'm all set, at least for the moment;)

I tried what microsoft suggested. When I copy c:\windows\system32\config\system C:\windows\tmp\system.bak. its not there. how do i fix this. system file that is.