NTLDR is Missing.
Issue:
NTLDR is Missing.
Related errors:
Below are the full error messages that may be seen when the computer is booting.
NTLDR is Missing
Press any key to restart
Boot: Couldn't find NTLDR
Please insert another disk
NTLDR is missing
Press Ctrl Alt
Cause:
1. Computer is booting from a non-bootable source.
2. Computer hard disk drive is not properly setup in BIOS.
3. Corrupt NTLDR and/or NTDETECT.COM file.
4. Misconfiguration with the boot.ini file.
5. Attempting to upgrade from a Windows 95, 98, or ME computer that is using FAT32.
6. New hard disk drive being added.
7. Corrupt boot sector / master boot record.
8. Seriously corrupted version of Windows 2000 or Windows XP.
9. Loose or Faulty IDE/EIDE hard disk drive cable.
Solutions:
Computer is booting from a non-bootable source
Many times this error is caused when the computer is attempting to boot from a non-bootable floppy disk or CD-ROM. First verify that no floppy diskette is in the computer, unless you are attempting to boot from a diskette.
If you are attempting to boot from a floppy diskette and are receiving this error message it is likely that the diskette does not have all the necessary files and/or is corrupt.
If you are attempting to install Windows XP or Windows 2000 and are receiving this error message as the computer is booting verify that your computer BIOS has the proper boot settings. For example, if you are attempting to run the install from the CD-ROM make sure the CD-ROM is the first boot device, and not the hard disk drive.
Second, when the computer is booting you should receive the below prompt.
Press any key to boot from the CD
Important: When you see this message press any key such as the Enter key immediately, otherwise it will try booting from the hard drive and likely get the NTLDR error again.
Note: If you are not receiving the above message and your BIOS boot options are set properly it's also possible that your CD-ROM drive may not be booting from the CD-ROM properly. Verify the jumpers are set properly on the CD-ROM drive. Additional information about checking the CD-ROM drive connections can be found on document CH000213.
Additional information: This error has also been known to occur when a memory stick is in a card reader and the computer is attempting to boot from it. If you have any type of card reader or flash reader make sure that no memory stick is inside the computer.
Computer hard disk drive is not properly setup in BIOS
Verify that your computer hard disk drive is properly setup in the BIOS / CMOS setup. Improper settings can cause this error.
If your computer is using Microsoft Windows 2000 and you are encountering the NTLDR error. Create the below boot.ini file on the floppy diskette drive.
[boot loader]
timeout=30
default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINNT
[operating systems]
multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINNT="Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional" /fastdetect
Copy the NTLDR and NTDETECT.COM files from another computer using the same Operating System. Both of these files are located in the root directory of the primary hard disk drive. For example, C:\NTLDR and C:\NTDETECT.COM should be the locations of these files on many computers.
Once these files have been copied to a floppy diskette reboot the computer and copy the NTLDR and NTDETECT.COM files to the root directory of the primary hard disk drive. Below is an example of what commonly should be performed from the A:\> drive.
copy ntldr c:
copy ntdetect.com c:
After the above two files have been copied, remove the floppy diskette and reboot the computer.
1. Insert the Windows XP bootable CD into the computer.
2. When prompted to press any key to boot from the CD, press any key.
3. Once in the Windows XP setup menu press the "R" key to repair Windows.
4. Log into your Windows installation by pressing the "1" key and pressing enter.
5. You will then be prompted for your administrator password, enter that password.
6. Copy the below two files to the root directory of the primary hard disk. In the below example we are copying these files from the CD-ROM drive letter "E". This letter may be different on your computer.
copy e:\i386\ntldr c:\
copy e:\i386\ntdetect.com c:\
7. Once both of these files have been successfully copied, remove the CD from the computer and reboot.
Misconfiguration with the boot.ini file
Edit the boot.ini on the root directory of the hard disk drive and verify that it is pointing to the correct location of your Windows Operating System and that the partitions are properly defined.
Attempting to upgrade from a Windows 95, 98, or ME computer that is using FAT32
If you are getting this error message while you are attempting to upgrade to Windows 2000 or Windows XP from Windows 95, Windows 98, or Windows ME running FAT32 please try the below recommendations.
1. Boot the computer with a Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows ME bootable diskette.
2. At the A:\> prompt type:
sys c:
3. After pressing enter you should receive the "System Transferred" message. Once this has been completed remove the floppy diskette and reboot the computer.
New hard disk drive being added
If you are attempting to add a new hard disk drive to the computer make sure that drive is a blank drive. Adding a new hard disk drive to a computer that already has Windows installed on it may cause the NTLDR error to occur.
If you are unsure if the new drive is blank or not try booting from a bootable diskette and format the new hard disk drive.
Corrupt boot sector / master boot record
It's possible your computer's hard disk drive may have a corrupt boot sector and/or master boot record. These can be repaired through the Microsoft Windows Recovery console by running the fixboot and fixmbr commands.
Seriously corrupted version of Windows 2000 or Windows XP
If you have tried each of the above recommendations that apply to your situation and you continue to experience this issue it is possible you may have a seriously corrupted version of Microsoft Windows. Therefore we would recommend you reinstall Microsoft Windows 2000 and Windows XP.
If you are encountering this issue during your setup you may wish to completely erase your computer hard disk drive and all of its existing data and then install Microsoft Windows 2000 / Windows XP.
Loose or Faulty IDE/EIDE hard disk drive cable
This issue has been known to be caused by a loose or fault IDE/EIDE cable. If the above recommendation does not resolve your issue and your computer hard disk drive is using an IDE or EIDE interface. Verify the computer hard disk drive cable is firmly connected by disconnected and reconnecting the cable.
If the issue continues it is also a possibility that the computer has a faulty cable, try replacing the hard disk drive cable with another cable and/or a new cable.
Getting into Windows Safe Mode.
About:
Getting into Windows Safe Mode.
Reason:
Users who may not be able to boot into normal mode may need to boot into safe mode bypassing normal windows settings and startup programs, allowing the user to fix his or her computer.
Solutions:
Windows 95 Users
Windows 98 / ME Users
Windows 2000 Users
Windows XP Users
How to get out of Safe Mode?
Which safe mode option should I choose?
Unable to get into Safe mode see document CH000750
To get into Windows 95 safe mode, as the computer is booting, when you either hear a beep or when you see the message "Starting Windows 95", press your F8 key on the top of your keyboard. If done properly you should get into the Windows 95 Startup menu similar to the below screen. In this menu choose option 3 by pressing the 3 key and press enter.
| Microsoft Windows 95 Startup Menu 1. Normal Enter a choice: 1 F5=Safe Mode Shift+F5=Command prompt Shift+F8= Step-by-step confirmation [N] |
Windows 98 / ME Users
To get into Windows 98 / ME safe mode, as the computer is booting press and hold your "F8 key" on the top of your keyboard or press and hold the left or right Ctrl key as the computer is booting. If done properly you should get into the "Windows 98 / ME Startup Menu" similar to the below screen example. In this menu choose option 3 by pressing the 3 key and press enter.
Note: With some computers if you press and hold a key as the computer is booting you will get a stuck key message. If this occurs, instead of pressing and holding the "F8 key", tap the "F8 key" continuously until you get the startup menu.
| Microsoft Windows 98 Startup Menu 1. Normal Enter a choice: 1 F5=Safe Mode Shift+F5=Command prompt Shift+F8= Step-by-step confirmation [N] |
Windows 2000 / XP Users
Tip: If you are running safe mode because you cannot get into Windows you may want to first try loading the last known good configuration.
To get into the Windows 2000 / XP Safe mode, as the computer is booting press and hold your "F8 Key" which should bring up the "Windows Advanced Options Menu" as shown below. Use your arrow keys to move to "Safe Mode" and press your Enter key.
Trouble Getting into Windows 2000 or Windows XP Safe mode - If after several attempts you are unable to get into Windows 2000 or Windows XP safe mode as the computer is booting into Windows, turn off your computer. When the computer is turned on the next time Windows should notice that the computer did not successfully boot and give you the safe mode screen.
Note: With some computers if you press and hold a key as the computer is booting you will get a stuck key message. If this occurs, instead of pressing and holding the "F8 key", tap the "F8 key" continuously until you get the startup menu.
|
Safe Mode Enable Boot Logging Start Windows Normally Use the up and down arrow keys to move the highlight to your choice. |
How do I get out of safe mode?
From Windows Safe Mode click Start / Shutdown and restart the computer. This should start the computer automatically back into Normal Mode.
Note: Many users believe that they are still in safe mode because the colors or video may not look correct. Unless in the corners of the screen it says "Safe Mode", you are not in safe mode.
If you are rebooting the computer and it is rebooting back into Safe Mode (it does say "Safe Mode" in each of the corners), it is likely another problem exists with Windows preventing it from loading into Normal Windows. We recommend you see our basic troubleshooting section for additional ideas that may help to resolve your issue.
Which safe mode option should I choose?
Users who are running later versions of Windows will get several different options for different types of safe mode. For example, you may have options for "Safe Mode", "Safe Mode with Networking", and "Safe Mode with Command Prompt". Below is a brief description of each of these different modes.
Safe Mode
The basic Safe Mode option is usually what most users will want to choose when troubleshooting their computer. This is the most basic Safe Mode option and has no additional support.
Safe Mode with Networking
For users needing access to the Internet or the network they're connected to while in Safe Mode users may wish to choose this option. This mode is helpful for when you need to be in Safe Mode to troubleshoot but also need access to the Internet so you can get updates, drivers, or other files to help troubleshoot your issue.
Safe Mode with Command Prompt
This Safe Mode would also allow you to have access to the command line (MS-DOS prompt).
How do I password protect my files and folders in Windows?
Question:
How do I password protect my files and folders in Windows?
Answer:
Tip: Before password protecting any document you may wish to create a backup of the non-password protected folder and files in case you forget the password in the future.
The majority of Microsoft Windows operating systems do not come with a method of password protecting your sensitive files and/or folders. If you're using Microsoft Windows 3.x, Windows 95, Windows 98, you will need to download or purchase a third-party program to password protect your files and folders in Windows; skip down to the other security solutions section if you're using one of these operating systems.
Microsoft Windows XP professional users
Microsoft Windows XP home users
Other security solutions for protecting your files and folders in Windows
Things to remember when encrypting or password protecting files and folders
Microsoft Windows XP professional users
The below steps for encrypting the files on Windows XP professional applies to users who are using a computer that has different accounts. If you're using a single account for all users who use the computer you will need to see the below other security solutions section.
1. Select the folder you wish to encrypt.
2. Right-click the folder and click Properties.
3. Click the Advanced button.
4. Check "Encrypt contents to secure data" option.
5. Click Apply and then Ok.
Encrypt contents to secure data is grayed out
This will be grayed out if you're using the home edition of Microsoft Windows XP. See the below steps for securing the contents of your folders in Windows XP home.
Show "Encrypt" on the context menu
The newest version of TweakUI also enables you to show the Encrypt option in the context menu. To do this, follow the below steps.
1. Open TweakUI.
2. In the TweakUI window, select Explorer
3. In the right side of the window under Settings, locate "Show 'Encrypt' on context menu" and check the box. This option should be below "Prefix 'shortcut to' on new shortcuts" and above "Show 'View workgroup computers' in NetPlaces".
Microsoft Windows XP home users
1. Select the folder you wish to encrypt.
2. Right-click the folder and click Properties.
3. Click the Sharing tab.
4. Check the box Make this folder private
5. Click Apply and then Ok.
Make this folder private is grayed out
In order for this option to work in Microsoft Windows XP home you must meet the below requirements.
1. The hard disk drive must be formatted in NTFS and not FAT32. Additional information about determining the type of file system your hard disk drive is running can be found on document CH000713.
2. The folder you're attempting to encrypt must be in your own personal folder. For example, if your name is bob, you must be encrypting a folder that is or that is contained within the below folder:
C:\Documents and Settings\Bob\
You cannot encrypt any folders outside of this folder. If you wish to encrypt outside this folder see the below other security solutions.
Other security solutions for protecting your files and folders in Windows
File and folders not frequently used
If you need to password protect files and/or folders that you do not frequently use, one of the simplest ways is to compress the folder and files with a compression utility and password protect the compressed file. However, each time you wish to work or modify the files you will need to uncompress the files using the password.
Windows ME, Windows XP users - Microsoft Windows ME and Windows XP come with their own compression utility. This utility can also be used to compress and password protect files.
Tip: When a file is compressed, users can still view a listing of the files in the compressed file. If you wish for both your file names and the contents to be hidden, move all the files into a single folder and password protect that folder.
File and folders frequently used or accessed
If you need to password protect and/or encrypt data you frequently use, you will need to install a third-party program that will enable you to protect your files and folders. Below are some free and commercial solutions.
· AxCrypt - An excellent free encryption utility that enables users to encrypt all files within a folder and not allow those files to be viewed unless a passphrase (password) is known.
· WinCry - A freeware utility that enables your files to be encrypted, secure deletion, as well as other helpful methods of protecting your files.
· Folder Guard - A commercial version of a password protection software that enables you to password protect files, folders, and other Windows resources.
Things to remember when encrypting or password protecting files and folders
- There is no such thing as a 100% protected file. There are numerous tools, utilities, and instructions for how to break a lot of the encryption and passwords on files. However, the protection methods listed above will protect your files from the majority of users who may encounter them. If you're working with really sensitive data we suggest a commercial product for protecting your files and data.
- Even though a file or folder may be password protected it still can be deleted (unless the program supports the ability to protect files from being deleted). Always remember to backup all your files, even those protected by passwords.
- If you forget the password, unless you're willing to spend the time attempting to break it or pay someone else to break the password, all your file data will be lost. Unless you've made a backup of the non-password protected data.
How do I password protect my files and folders in Windows?
Question:
How do I password protect my files and folders in Windows?
Answer:
Tip: Before password protecting any document you may wish to create a backup of the non-password protected folder and files in case you forget the password in the future.
The majority of Microsoft Windows operating systems do not come with a method of password protecting your sensitive files and/or folders. If you're using Microsoft Windows 3.x, Windows 95, Windows 98, you will need to download or purchase a third-party program to password protect your files and folders in Windows; skip down to the other security solutions section if you're using one of these operating systems.
Microsoft Windows XP professional users
Microsoft Windows XP home users
Other security solutions for protecting your files and folders in Windows
Things to remember when encrypting or password protecting files and folders
Microsoft Windows XP professional users
The below steps for encrypting the files on Windows XP professional applies to users who are using a computer that has different accounts. If you're using a single account for all users who use the computer you will need to see the below other security solutions section.
1. Select the folder you wish to encrypt.
2. Right-click the folder and click Properties.
3. Click the Advanced button.
4. Check "Encrypt contents to secure data" option.
5. Click Apply and then Ok.
Encrypt contents to secure data is grayed out
This will be grayed out if you're using the home edition of Microsoft Windows XP. See the below steps for securing the contents of your folders in Windows XP home.
Show "Encrypt" on the context menu
The newest version of TweakUI also enables you to show the Encrypt option in the context menu. To do this, follow the below steps.
1. Open TweakUI. If you do not have TweakUI you can find additional details about getting and installing TweakUI in document CH000141.
2. In the TweakUI window, select Explorer
3. In the right side of the window under Settings, locate "Show 'Encrypt' on context menu" and check the box. This option should be below "Prefix 'shortcut to' on new shortcuts" and above "Show 'View workgroup computers' in NetPlaces".
Microsoft Windows XP home users
1. Select the folder you wish to encrypt.
2. Right-click the folder and click Properties.
3. Click the Sharing tab.
4. Check the box Make this folder private
5. Click Apply and then Ok.
Make this folder private is grayed out
In order for this option to work in Microsoft Windows XP home you must meet the below requirements.
1. The hard disk drive must be formatted in NTFS and not FAT32. Additional information about determining the type of file system your hard disk drive is running can be found on document CH000713.
2. The folder you're attempting to encrypt must be in your own personal folder. For example, if your name is bob, you must be encrypting a folder that is or that is contained within the below folder:
C:\Documents and Settings\Bob\
You cannot encrypt any folders outside of this folder. If you wish to encrypt outside this folder see the below other security solutions.
Other security solutions for protecting your files and folders in Windows
File and folders not frequently used
If you need to password protect files and/or folders that you do not frequently use, one of the simplest ways is to compress the folder and files with a compression utility and password protect the compressed file. However, each time you wish to work or modify the files you will need to uncompress the files using the password.
Windows ME, Windows XP users - Microsoft Windows ME and Windows XP come with their own compression utility. This utility can also be used to compress and password protect files.
Tip: When a file is compressed, users can still view a listing of the files in the compressed file. If you wish for both your file names and the contents to be hidden, move all the files into a single folder and password protect that folder.
File and folders frequently used or accessed
If you need to password protect and/or encrypt data you frequently use, you will need to install a third-party program that will enable you to protect your files and folders. Below are some free and commercial solutions.
· AxCrypt - An excellent free encryption utility that enables users to encrypt all files within a folder and not allow those files to be viewed unless a passphrase (password) is known.
· WinCry - A freeware utility that enables your files to be encrypted, secure deletion, as well as other helpful methods of protecting your files.
· Folder Guard - A commercial version of a password protection software that enables you to password protect files, folders, and other Windows resources.
Things to remember when encrypting or password protecting files and folders
- There is no such thing as a 100% protected file. There are numerous tools, utilities, and instructions for how to break a lot of the encryption and passwords on files. However, the protection methods listed above will protect your files from the majority of users who may encounter them. If you're working with really sensitive data we suggest a commercial product for protecting your files and data.
- Even though a file or folder may be password protected it still can be deleted (unless the program supports the ability to protect files from being deleted). Always remember to backup all your files, even those protected by passwords.
- If you forget the password, unless you're willing to spend the time attempting to break it or pay someone else to break the password, all your file data will be lost. Unless you've made a backup of the non-password protected data.
NTOSKRNL.EXE is missing or corrupt.
Issue:
NTOSKRNL.EXE is missing or corrupt.
Related errors:
Below is a listing of the full error message that may be related to this error.
Windows NT could not start because the below file is missing or corrupt:
C:\Winnt\System32\Ntoskrnl.exe
Cause:
1. Keyboard issue
2. Miscellaneous corruption
3. Corrupt boot.ini file.
4. Missing boot.ini file.
5. Missing or corrupt ntoskrnl.exe file.
6. Windows NT installed on a partition bigger then 7.8GB
7. Corrupted hard disk drive or severely corrupted Windows.
Solution:
Keyboard issue
This issue has also been known to be caused by a short in the ground wire in the keyboard cable. Make sure this is not the cause of your error by replacing the keyboard with a different keyboard or simply just disconnecting the keyboard from the computer.
Miscellaneous corruption
Before trying any of the below recommendations it's recommend that you attempt to load the last known good configuration.
Corrupt boot.ini file
This issue is often caused when the boot.ini is missing or improperly configured. This issue often arises after a user has recently added or removed an operating system on the computer or added or removed hard disk drives in the computer.
Make sure the line pointing to the operating system and it's drive and partition is properly configured in the [boot loader] and [operating systems] section.
Missing boot.ini file
Microsoft Windows XP users:
If the boot.ini is severely corrupted or missing a user running Microsoft Windows XP can rebuild the boot.ini to resolve this issue.
Microsoft Windows NT and Windows 2000 users:
To restore the original boot.ini file in Microsoft Windows NT or Windows 2000 you will need an ERD and follow the below steps. If you do not have an ERD you will be unable to follow these steps.
1. Boot the computer with your Windows NT three setup diskettes or the Windows 2000 setup disc.
2. In the setup menu, type R to start the repair.
3. When prompted for the ERD diskette insert the diskette and inspect the startup environment.
Missing or corrupt ntoskrnl.exe file
If the ntoskrnl.exe file is corrupt or missing this can also generate the error. To restore this file follow the below steps.
1. Insert the Microsoft Windows XP CD. Note: If you have a recovery CD or a restore CD and not a Microsoft Windows XP CD it is likely the below steps will not resolve your issue.
2. Reboot the computer, as the computer is starting you should see a message to press any key to boot from the CD. When you see this message press any key.
3. In the Microsoft Windows XP setup menu press the R key to enter the recovery console.
4. Select the operating system you wish to fix, and then enter the administrator password.
5. Type expand d:\i386\ntoskrnl.ex_ c:\windows\system32
6. You will then be prompted if you wish to overwrite the file type Y and press enter to overwrite the file.
7. Type exit to reboot the computer.
Windows NT installed on a partition bigger then 7.8GB
If you are running Microsoft windows NT 4.0 on a partition larger than 7.8GB this issue can occur if the boot files are located outside this limitation. When this error occurs your computer will have the error message as shown below.
OS Loader v4.01
Disk I/O error status=00000001
Windows NT could not start because the below file is missing or corrupt: winnt\system32\Ntoskrnl.exe
Please reinstall a copy of the above file.
If your system partition is larger than 7.8GB you will need to delete the partition and recreate the partition to 7.8GB or less.
Corrupted hard disk drive or severely corrupted Windows
Attempt to check the hard disk drive for any errors by running the chkdsk error. To do this follow the below steps.
1. Insert the Microsoft Windows XP CD. Note: If you have a recovery CD or a restore CD and not a Microsoft Windows XP CD it is likely the below steps will not resolve your issue.
2. Reboot the computer, as the computer is starting you should see a message to press any key to boot from the CD. When you see this message press any key.
3. In the Microsoft Windows XP setup menu press the R key to enter the recovery console.
4. Select the operating system you wish to fix, and then enter the administrator password.
5. Once at the recovery console type chkdsk /r
6. Once completed type exit and see if issue is resolved.
If after trying all of the above steps you are still encountering the same issue it's likely that Windows is severely corrupted and it is recommended you attempt to reinstall Windows.
Finally, if during the Windows installation you encounter errors it's likely that your hard disk drive is bad.
How to erase my hard disk drive and start over:
Question:
How to erase my hard disk drive and start over.
Checklist:
The below recommendations are what a user should check before completely erasing their computer hard disk drive and starting over. Following these steps can prevent hours of hassles and headaches.
Did you backup all information on your hard disk drive?
Although most current operating systems have driver support for most hardware have you made sure you have the diskettes/CD's for your computer hardware devices so you can install the hardware after erasing everything?
If you are reinstalling Windows 98 or lower do you have a boot disks?
Have you tested the boot disk or bootable CD to make sure it loads properly?
Do you need an Operating System CD or Restore CD to reinstall the operating system?
Do you have the necessary licensing and OEM numbers needed to register your software again?
If you are planning to use a floppy diskette version to install your software you may want to verify all diskettes are accessible to prevent you from erasing the hard disk drive and not being able to recover the data because of a bad diskette.
Solution:
Please remember that following the below steps will erase all of the information on your hard disk drive. Once the below steps have been completed, you will not be able to reverse the steps if you want to recover possible lost data. Please make sure that you have checked the above checklist verifying that you have not forgotten a possible important step. Finally, the below steps are the most recommended steps and it is possible that the manufacturer of your computer may have another method of restoring your computer using their software.
Erasing the hard disk drive
The below steps are for users with MS-DOS 5.0+, Windows 3.x, Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows ME, and Windows NT 4.0.
- Place the bootable diskette or diks inside the computer and reboot to get to the DOS prompt. In some cases you may need to boot the computer with CD-ROM support or press a key to boot from the disk.
- At the MS-DOS prompt type format c: /s
- The computer will ask you "Are you sure you want to erase everything on drive c:" if you are ok with doing this press "Y" for yes and press enter.
- After doing this, the computer will begin the formatting process. If you receive errors during this process.
- Once the format process is completed successfully, at the MS-DOS prompt type fdisk/mbr and press enter. This should return you back to the MS-DOS prompt with no message. This step is not required but recommended.
- Once back at the MS-DOS prompt, reboot the computer with the boot disk still in the computer.
- Once back at the MS-DOS prompt, insert either the diskettes for MS-DOS, Windows 3.x, Windows 95, or the CD for Windows 95, Windows 98 or Windows NT and click the appropriate link
MS-DOS users
Windows 3.x users
Windows 95 floppy diskette users
Windows 95 CD users
Windows 98 users
Windows NT 4.0 users
MS-DOS users:
- Place the first MS-DOS diskette into the computer.
- At the A:\> type setup and press enter to being the installation.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Note: If you discover a bad diskette during the installation, it is recommended that you contact Microsoft for a possible replacement.
Windows 3.x users:
- Place the first diskette of Windows 3.x into the computer.
- At the A:\> type setup and press enter to begin the installation.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Note: If you discover a bad diskette during the installation, it is recommended that you contact Microsoft for a possible replacement.
Windows 95 floppy diskette users:
- Place the first diskette of Windows 95 into the computer.
- At the A:\> type setup and press enter to begin the installation.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Note: If you discover a bad diskette during the installation of Windows 95 it is recommended you contact Microsoft for possible replacement.
Windows 95 CD users:
- Place the CD into the computer.
- Type X: (where x is the CD-ROM drive, generally this is D).
- Once at the appropriate drive, type CD WIN95 and press enter to get into the Windows 95 directory.
- Once at X:\WIN95> type setup to begin the installation
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
If you are encountering issues during the setup process, you can add additional switches to the setup command line.
Windows NT 4.0 users:
Windows NT can be installed several different ways. We recommend that Windows NT be installed using the below steps as we feel that these steps by far are the easiest way to install Windows NT 4.0.
First, we recommend that all users wanting to simply install Windows NT use the /b switch which allows the users to not need to create the diskettes. We do, however, recommend that the user create the Emergency recover diskettes if they have not already been created after the installation of Windows NT.
Finally, before the installation of Windows NT, it is recommended that you run SMARTDRV, which will help the installation of Windows NT run a lot faster.
- Place the CD into the computer.
- Type X: (where x is the CD-ROM drive, generally this is D).
- Once at the appropriate drive, type CD WINNT and press enter to get into the Windows 95 directory.
- Once at X:\WINNT> type winnt /b.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
Runtime errors.
Issue:
Runtime errors.
Cause:
The runtime or run-time error message can be caused by:
1. Confliction with TSR or other running program
2. Software issue
3. Computer Virus
4. Memory issue
Before following the below recommendations for troubleshooting your runtime error if you're getting a runtime error with a runtime error code and error message such as "Runtime error 75 path/file access error", skip to the below runtime errors listing for a listing of runtime error codes and additional information and causes for these errors.
Confliction with TSR or other running program
If you are encountering a runtime error message while in Windows or above ensure that the issue is not being caused by a third-party program or TSR by end tasking all open programs. Additional information about TSRs and how to end task a TSR can be found on document CHRS
If, after end tasking all TSRs, you continue to experience the same issue and are running Windows 95 or Windows 98, verify that no utility or program is being loaded in the autoexec.bat / config.sys that is causing your issue by temporally renaming the files. To do this, follow the below instructions.
1. Boot to a MS-DOS prompt. Information on how to do this can be found on documents CHDOS
2. Once at the MS-DOS prompt, type:
cd\
ren autoexec.bat autoexec.ch
ren config.sys config.ch
Once completed, reboot the computer.
Software issue
If your issue persists it is possible that the program, utility or game causing the runtime error may have issues. Verify through the developers websites that all updates or patches that may be available have been downloaded and applied.
If no patches or updates are available, attempt to uninstall and/or reinstall the program that is causing the issue. If you are having a runtime error in your operating systems, reinstall the operating system.
Computer virus
Because computer viruses are capable of tampering with the system settings / memory it is possible for a computer virus to generate a runtime error. If you are currently running a virus protection program on your computer ensure it has the latest updated patch or .dat file.
If you do not have a computer virus protection program it is recommended one be purchased or that a demo be temporarily downloaded to scan your computer hard disk drive for viruses.
Memory issue
Finally, if you have followed all of the above recommendations, it is possible that you may be encountering a hardware / memory related issue. We recommend that you first contact the developer of the program causing the issue for any possible solutions. If no solutions are found, we recommend you contact the computer or motherboard manufacturer for additional recommendations and/or service.
Below is a listing of Microsoft Windows and Windows software runtime error codes and related Runtime error messages. If you're encountering one of the below runtime error codes and have a matching runtime error message see the associated additional information column for causes and information about that runtime. If the additional information does not help resolve your issue try the recommendations under the above solution section.
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How to enter the BIOS or CMOS setup.
Issue:
How to enter the BIOS or CMOS setup.
Reasoning:
IBM compatible users may need to enter the BIOS or CMOS setup to setup or change how their computer's hardware is currently configured.
Solution:
Because of the wide variety of computer manufacturers and BIOS manufacturers over the evolution of computers, there have been numerous different ways to enter the BIOS or CMOS Setup. Below is a listing of the majority of these methods as well as other recommendations for entering the BIOS setup.
New computers
Thankfully, computers that have been manufactured in the last few years will allow you to enter the CMOS by pressing one of the below five keys during the boot.
· F1
· F2
· ESE
·
· F10
A user will know when to press this key when they see a message similar to the below example as the computer is booting. Some older computers may also display a flashing block to indicate when to press the F1 or F2 keys.
Press
Tip: If your computer is a new computer and you are unsure of what key to press when the computer is booting, try pressing and holding any key on the keyboard. This will cause a stuck key error, which may allow you to enter the BIOS setup.
Older computers
Unlike the computers of today, older computers had numerous different methods of entering the BIOS setup. Below is a listing of general key sequences that may have had to be pressed as the computer was booting.
· CTRL + ALT + ESC
· CTRL + ALT + INS
· CTRL + ALT + ENTER
· CTRL + ALT + S
· PAGE UP KEY
· PAGE DOWN KEY
ACER BIOS
If your computer is unable to boot or you wish to restore the BIOS back to bootable settings and your computer uses an ACER BIOS, press and hold the F10 key as you turn on the computer. While continuing to hold the F10 key, you should hear two beeps indicating that the settings have been restored.
AMI BIOS
Older AMI BIOS could be restored back to bootable settings by pressing and holding the Insert Key as the computer is booting.
BIOS / CMOS diskettes
Early 486, 386, and 286 computers may have required a floppy disk in order to enter the BIOS setup. These diskettes are known as ICU, BBU, and SCU disks. Because these diskettes are unique to your computer manufacturer, you must obtain the diskettes from them. See our support list for contact information on computer manufacturers.
Early IBM computers
Some models of early IBM computers required that the user press and hold both mouse buttons as the computer was booting in order to enter the BIOS setup.
Other suggestions
Finally, if none of the above suggestions help get you into your CMOS setup you can cause a stuck key error, which will usually cause the CMOS setup prompt to appear and remain until you press a key to continue. To do this press and hold any key on the keyboard and do not let go (you may get several beeps as you're doing this). Keep holding the key until the computer stops booting and you're prompted with an option to enter setup or to press another key to continue booting.
How to set the path in Windows 2000 / Windows XP.
Question:
How to set the path in Windows 2000 / Windows XP.
Additional Information:
Modifying the path statement will enable an MS-DOS window opened in Microsoft Windows as well as older programs to locate files that may be required to run the program.
Users familiar with MS-DOS will remember the PATH= statement that was in the autoexec.bat file.
Answer:
The path is now managed by Windows 2000 / Windows XP and not the autoexec.bat or autoexec.nt files. To change the system environment variables, follow the below steps.
- From the desktop, right click My Computer and click properties.
- In the System Properties window, click on the Advanced tab.
- In the Advanced section, click the Environment Variables button.
- Finally, in the Environment Variables window, highlight the path variable in the Systems Variable section and click edit. Add or modify the path lines with the paths you wish the computer to access. Each different directory is separated with a semicolon as shown below.
C:\Program Files;C:\Winnt;C:\Winnt\System32
Additional information and help with the boot.ini.
Question:
Additional information and help with the boot.ini.
Additional information:
The "boot.ini" is a Microsoft initialization file found on the Microsoft Windows NT, Microsoft Windows 2000, and Microsoft Windows XP operating systems. This file is always located on the root directory of the primary hard disk drive. In other words, it is located at "C:\" directory or the "C Drive". This file is used by Microsoft Windows as a method of displaying a menu of operating system currently on the computer and allowing the user to easily select which operating system to load. In addition, this file is also used to point to the locations of each of the operating systems.
Basic example of the boot.ini file
[boot loader]
timeout=5
default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(1)partition(1)\WINDOWS
[operating systems]
multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(1)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition" /fastdetect
In the above example, the boot.ini contains two sections, the "[boot loader]", and "[operating systems]". Within the boot loader section there are two lines. The "timeout" line is used for how long the boot menu time should be displayed, in seconds; we recommend that the timeout be set to at least five if you wish the computer to boot faster and commonly use the default operating systems. The "default" line is the default operating system that the boot.ini will load. If multiple operating systems are in the boot.ini, the default operating system will be automatically selected and used if the user does not specify a different operating system by the time the timeout value expires.
The next section, or the "operating system" section, is used to list and specify the location of each of the operating systems installed on the computer. Below is a listing of each of the options.
| Option | Description |
| multi(x) | This option is used with IDE and ESDI drives and is also used with SCSI drives for computers using Windows NT. The number used in the above example is "0", this number is the adapter's number and should always be "0" for computers that rely on the BIOS to load system files.
|
| scsi(x) | If the computer has a SCSI controller and is not using BIOS to load the system files, the boot.ini may have "scsi(x)" instead of "multi(x). |
| disk(x) | The disk on the controller. If "multi(x)" is used used, this value will always be "0". However, if "scsi(x)" is defined, this value will be SCSI address. |
| rdisk(x) | Which disk on the controller is being used. In the above example we are using an rdisk of "1", which indicates the second disk on the primary controller is being used. This value may be between "0" and "3" and is always set to "0" when "scsi(x)" is being used. |
| paritions(x) | Which partition the operating system is on. In the above example, the operating system is on the first partition of the drive. |
| \WINDOWS="..." | Finally, the last portion of this line defines the directory of where windows is located and what the boot menu should display as the operating system. In the above example, the boot menu would display "Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition" as a selection. |
Example of the boot menu
If multiple operating systems are setup in the boot.ini, as the computer is booting you will see a menu similar to the below example. This allows the user to select between multiple operating systems. If your computer does not have multiple operating systems, but this menu still appears each time your computer boots, it is likely that your boot.ini is improperly configured.
| Please select the operating system to start: Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition Use the up and down arrow keys to move the highlight to your choice. For troubleshooting and advanced startup options for Windows, press F8. |
How to modify the boot.ini
The boot.ini file is a hidden system file located in the root directory of your primary hard disk drive. To edit this file we recommend you follow the below steps.
- From Windows, open an MS-DOS prompt by clicking "Start" and then "Run" and typing "cmd" in the text box. If you are not able to get into a MS-DOS prompt to edit the boot.ini file, boot into the recovery console to edit the file.
- At the MS-DOS prompt, type:
c:
cd\
attrib -r -a -s -h boot.ini
edit boot.ini
Available boot.ini switches
Below is a listing of available boot.ini switches and a brief explanation. These switches can can be used to help setup or troubleshoot a computer.
| Switch | Description |
| /basevideo | Causes the operating system to use a standard VGA display when booting into the operating system. |
| /bootlog | Creates a log file named ntbtlog.txt of the computer booting. |
| /burnmemory | Causes the operating system to ignore the memory specified after the switch. For example, "/burnmemory=64" instructs the operating system to ignore 64MB of physical memory. |
| /debug | Causes the kernel debugging to be enabled. |
| /fastdetect | Causes NTDETECT to not detect serial and parallel devices and instead let Plug and Play handle detection. |
| /maxmem | Limit the operating system to use the maximum memory of what the user specifies. For example, "/maxmem=32" instructs the operating system to use a maximum of 32MB. |
| /noguiboot | Microsoft Windows 2000 and above switch that, if enabled, will not load the graphics driver to display the graphic as Windows is starting |
| /nopae | Microsoft Windows 2000 switch that disables the computer's ability to utilize Intel Physical Address Extensions |
| /numproc | Instructs the operating system on how many processors it is capable of using. |
| /onecpu | Causes the operating system to utilize one of the processors in a multi-processor computer. |
| /pae | Microsoft Windows 2000 switch that enables the computer to utilize Intel Physical Address Extensions |
| /pcilock | Prevents the operating system from automatically assigning IO/IRQ resources to PCI devices. |
| /safeboot | Boot the computer safely. This mode can be easily accessed without modifying any files by pressing the "F8" key as the computer is booting. See CHSAFE for additional information on how to enter safe mode. |
| /sos | Causes the operating system to print out information as it being processed. |
| /w95 | |
| /w95dos | Used when booting MS-DOS |
| /year | Option used to cause the operating system to ignore the year provided by systems the real-time clock and instead utilize the year specified after the switch. For example, a user may type /year=2003. |
Microsoft Windows Registry
| QUICK LINKS Registry basics The registry contains extended information, settings and various other values for the the Microsoft Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows ME, Windows XP Operating Systems. Within the registry you can control a great majority of the operating system as well as fix a lot of issues with Windows. However, we only recommend those who are experienced with computers or who feel confident to go into the registry. Before going into the Registry and changing or deleting anything, we ALWAYS recommend that you backup the registry. The computer registry consists of two files hidden in the Windows directory, system.dat and user.dat. User-specific system information is contained in the user.dat file and Computer and Hardware specific information in the system.dat file. To get into the Windows 95 or Windows 98 registry, click Start / Run / type regedit
When typing regedit you will get the below screen; this window, as you can see, is the Registry editor. This windows looks very similar to Explorer; however, within each folder you have sub folders which have various settings. Below are the types of files that you will see during the time you are in the registry.
BACKING UP / RESTORING THE REGISTRY Backing up the Windows 95 registry Backing up the Windows 95 registry Type cd\windows At the C:\WINDOWS> prompt, type the following: attrib user.dat -r -a -s -h The above will copy the registry files into a backup directory in your Windows directory. This directory can be substituted for any directory or any other drive. Note: In many cases, the registry cannot be copied onto a single floppy because it exceeds the size of a standard floppy. Restoring the Windows 95 registry If you have made a backup of the user.dat and system.dat files in the past and you have verified they still exist, follow the below steps to restore your Windows 95 registry. Once at the MS-DOS prompt, type cd\windows Once in the Windows directory, type the following: attrib user.dat -r -a -s -h Once these files have been deleted, type cd\windows\backup once in the windows\backup directory type the below. If you have have changed the location of where your registry is backed up you will need to change to the directory that contains the backup. copy user.dat c:\windows The above should copy two files; once copied, reboot the computer and you should now be able to get back into windows Backing up the Windows 98 registry Windows 98 has a new utility known as 'scanreg', this utility automatically makes backups of your registry each time you boot up your computer. However, the steps listed above for backing up Windows 95 registry also work but are not necessarily needed unless you wish to keep an original elsewhere. At the MS-DOS prompt, type cd\windows\command Once in this directory, type scanreg /restore this will restore an earlier version of your registry. Once completed, reboot the computer and this should resolve any issues that may have occurred with your registry. If you backed up your registry using the Windows 95 steps use the Windows 95 restore steps to restore the registry. Backing up the Windows ME registry Like its predecessor, Microsoft Windows ME also includes the scanreg utility. This utility automatically makes backups of the registry each time the computer boots. Restoring the Windows ME registry To restore an earlier version of the registry a user can click Start, Run, and type scanreg /restore to restore the registry. If you are unable to get into Windows this can also be done through safe mode. Backing up the Windows 2000 registry The Microsoft Windows 2000 registry can be backed up easily from the backup utility by following the below steps. 1. Click Start, Programs, Accessories, and click backup. 2. Within backup, click the backup tab. 3. Within the backup tab, check " Restoring the Windows 2000 registry If you have created backups using the Microsoft backup utility from the backup utility you can also restore the registry through this utility. Backing up the Windows XP registry Microsoft Windows XP includes a new feature known as system restore. This great new feature enables a user to backup and restore their important system files from an earlier day. By default this feature automatically creates a backup of the system each day. If you wish to create a restore point of your system follow the below steps. 1. Click Start, Programs, Accessories, System Tools, System Restore 2. Select the option to Create a restore point 3. Click next and follow the remainder steps. Restoring the Windows XP registry To restore the system back to an earlier point follow the below steps. 1. Click Start, Programs, Accessories, System Tools, System Restore 2. Select the Restore my computer to an earlier time option and click next 3. Select the day and the restore point you wish to restore and click next.
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- Open or selected folder just as you would see in Windows Explorer
- Closed folder just as you would see in Windows Explorer
- String Value allows you to place certain values to certain aspects of a program such as a version number.
- Binary Value allows you to set attributes to a particular application, values are in Enabling / disabling Windows AutoPlay.
Issue:
Enabling / disabling Windows AutoPlay
Cause:
It has been discovered that this option can be disabled by software, the manufacturer of the computer, or in some cases it can be disabled if the computer crashes during the execution of an AutoPlay CD. Below is steps how to enable and disable the Microsoft Windows AutoPlay feature for data and audio CDs.
Solution:
Before attempting the below instructions ensure the CD that may not be AutoPlaying is capable of doing this. Not all CDs are capable of being auto played. CDs that are AutoPlay data CD's will have a "autorun.inf" file in the root directory of the CD.
Enabling Microsoft Windows AutoPlay
Disabling Microsoft Windows AutoPlay
Enabling Microsoft Windows AutoPlay
Enabling AutoPlay on a data CD (Windows 95, 98, and ME)
Enabling AutoPlay on a data CD (Windows NT and 2000)
Enabling AutoPlay on a data and audio CD (Windows XP)
Enabling AutoPlay on an audio CD (Windows 98, ME, and 2000)
Enabling AutoPlay on an audio CD (Windows 95)
Enabling AutoPlay on a data CD (Windows 95, 98, and ME)
1. Click Start, Settings, Control Panel, and double-click the System icon
2. Open Device Manager
3. Click the + next to CD-ROM and double-click the currently installed CD-ROM drive.
4. In the CD-ROM properties click the Settings Tab and verify that there is a check within the Auto Insert Notification section. If there is no check in this box, place a check into the box, then click Ok and restart the computer.
Enabling AutoPlay on a data CD (Windows NT and 2000)
Note: Performing the below steps will require that you edit the system registry. Make sure you are aware of the issues that could occur if the incorrect registry entry is made.
1. Click Start, Run, type regedit and press enter.
2. In the Registry Editor open the below registry key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\
System\
CurrentControlSet\
Services\
Cdrom\
3. When in the Cdrom folder change the Autorun from a '0' to a '1'
4. Close the Registry Editor.
Enabling AutoPlay on a data and audio CD (Windows XP)
1. Open My Computer or Explorer
2. Highlight the CD-ROM drive, right click the CD-ROM drive and click properties.
3. Click the AutoPlay tab. Within this section you will be able to specify all Windows AutoPlay features.
Enabling AutoPlay on an audio CD (Windows 98, ME, and 2000)
1. Click Start, Programs, Windows Explorer
2. Within Explorer click View and then Folder Options.
3. Click the File Types tab and locate "CD Audio Track" category within the list of available file types.
4. Highlight "CD Audio Track" and click Edit or Advanced.
5. In the Actions category double-click the option listed Play; if this is not listed, see the next paragraph.
6. If you wish to use the default Windows CD player ensure that within the "Application used to perform the action" section is c:\windows\cdplayer.exe -play .
7. Once set make sure this action is the Default.
If Play was not an option listed when following the above steps, in the "Edit File Type" window click New, for the Action type Play, for the Application used to perform this action type c:\windows\cdplayer.exe -play .
Note: The above steps are for setting audio CDs to be played with the default Microsoft Windows CD player. If you have a different CD player you want to use you will need to edit the play to point to the program you wish to play your CDs.
Enabling AutoPlay on an audio CD (Windows 95)
1. Open My Computer click View, Options, File Types
2. Highlight the "Audio CD" section and click edit.
3. Double-click the Play option and ensure that the Application used to perform this action is cdplayer /play. If this appears to be set properly, click ok and ensure that the play is bold indicating that it is set as the default action.
Note: The above steps are for setting audio CDs to be played with the default Microsoft Windows CD player. If you have a different CD player you want to use you will need to edit the play to point to the program you wish to play your CDs.
Disabling AutoPlay
Tip: You can temporarily disable the AutoPlay feature by holding down the left shift key as the CD begins to run. In addition if you wish to browse the contents of the CD open My Computer, right click the CD-ROM drive and choose explore.
If you wish to permanently disable the AutoPlay feature follow the below steps for your version of Microsoft Windows.
Disabling AutoPlay on a data CD (Windows 95, 98, and ME)
Disabling AutoPlay on a data CD (Windows NT and 2000)
Disabling AutoPlay on a data and audio CD (Windows XP)
Disabling AutoPlay on an audio CD (Windows 98, ME, and 2000)
Disabling AutoPlay on an audio CD (Windows 95)
Disabling AutoPlay on a data CD (Windows 95, 98, and ME)
1. Click Start, Settings, Control Panel, and double-click the System icon
2. Open Device Manager
3. Click the + next to CD-ROM and double-click the currently installed CD-ROM drive.
4. In the CD-ROM properties click the Settings Tab and verify that there is not a check within the Auto Insert Notification section.
If the My Autorun or AutoPlay feature still does not work after following the above recommendations and you are running Microsoft Windows 95 or Windows 98.
It is possible that after attempting to follow the above recommendations that the computer will still not AutoPlay CDs. If this is the case you may want to try the below solution, providing you are aware how to navigate the computer registry and are familiar with the possible issues that can be caused when editing the registry. You can find this information on our Registry page.
Within regedit, navigate into the below folders.
HKEY_USERS\
.DEFAULT\
SOFTWARE\
MICROSOFT\
WINDOWS\
CURRENTVERSION\
POLICIES\
EXPLORER\
Once within the Explorer folder, double-click the entry: "NoDriveTypeAutoRun" if present and change the value to "95 00 00 00"
If NoDriveTypeAutoRun is not present, follow the below steps:
click Edit from the drop down menu
click new
click binary value
enter "NoDriveTypeAutoRun" as the name
enter "95 00 00 00" as the value
Once the above has been completed, exit regedit and reboot the computer; your issue should be resolved.
Disabling AutoPlay on a data CD (Windows NT and 2000)
Note: Performing the below steps will require that you edit the system registry. Make sure you are aware of the issues that could occur if the incorrect registry entry is made.
1. Click Start, Run, type regedit and press enter.
2. In the Registry Editor open the below registry key:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\
System\
CurrentControlSet\
Services\
Cdrom\
3. When in the Cdrom folder change the Autorun from a '1' to a '0'
4. Close the Registry Editor.
Disabling AutoPlay on a data and audio CD (Windows XP)
1. Open My Computer or Explorer
2. Highlight the CD-ROM drive, right click the CD-ROM drive and click properties.
3. Click the AutoPlay tab. Within this section you will be able to specify all Windows AutoPlay features.
Disabling AutoPlay on an audio CD (Windows 98, ME, and 2000)
1. Click Start, Programs, Windows Explorer
2. Within Explorer click View and then Folder Options.
3. Click the File Types tab and locate " CD Audio Track" category within the list of available file types.
4. Highlight " CD Audio Track" and click Edit or Advanced.
5. In the Actions category change the default from Play to Open or none.
Disabling AutoPlay on an audio CD (Windows 95)
1. Open My Computer click View, Options, File Types
2. Highlight the " Audio CD" section and click edit.
3. Change the default action from Play to Open or none.
MS-DOS compatibility mode issues:
Issue:
MS-DOS compatibility mode issues.
Cause:
This issue can be caused by any of the below reasons.
- MS-DOS compatibility mode drivers or files
- Corrupt Boot Record
- Registry issue
- Computer Virus
Solution:
MBR has been modified
If the System Properties window indicates that the MBR, or Master Boot Record, has been modified and you have recently installed a Virus Protection program, Security utility or drive manager, it's a good possibility that the recently installed program is causing the issue.
If you have not recently installed any of the above programs or utilities, it's a possibility that your computer may have been infected by a virus. Try the below recommended steps.
1. Boot from a clean write protected boot diskette
2. Once at A:\> type fdisk /mbr and press enter, this should return you to the A:\>
3. Type sys c: and press enter, once the system has been transferred remove the diskette and reboot the computer.
CD-ROM running in compatibility mode
If the Systems Properties window indicates that the CD-ROM is running in MS-DOS compatibility mode, attempt the below recommended steps.
1. From Windows click Start / Shutdown / Restart the computer in MS-DOS mode.
2. At the DOS prompt type cd\ and press enter to get to the C:\> prompt.
3. At C:\> type ren autoexec.bat autoexec.ch and press enter to rename the autoexec.bat temporarily.
4. Once this file has been renamed type ren config.sys config.ch and press enter to rename the config.sys.
5. Once each of these files have been renamed, reboot the computer to see if the issue has been resolved.
If the issue persists, click Start / Settings / Control Panel / click System / click the Device Manager tab. Click the + next to CD-ROM if not already a - and highlight the CD-ROM beneath the CD-ROM category. Once highlighted, click Remove, and reboot the computer.
If the issue persists, it's a good possibility that either the CD-ROM drive is bad or Windows is corrupted.
Note: If you wish to rename the autoexec and config files back to their original format follow the first paragraph and reverse the file names, for example:
ren autoexec.ch autoexec.bat
ren config.ch config.sys
Hard disk drive running in compatibility mode
If the Systems Properties window indicates that the Hard disk drive is running in MS-DOS compatibility mode, attempt the below recommended steps.
Before following the below steps, if you are running a DDO (Disk Drive Overlay), which is a utility that installs and sets up a hard diskette drive using a floppy diskette, it is recommended that you contact the Hard Disk Drive manufacturer for possible updated drivers for the DDO or recommended steps.
1. Boot from a clean write protected boot diskette.
2. Once at A:\> type fdisk /mbr and press enter, this should return you to the A:\>
3. Type sys c: and press enter, once the system has been transferred, remove the diskette and reboot the computer.
4. Ensure a CD-ROM is installed in the computer, some computers may have a CD-ROM drivers loaded but may not have a CD-ROM installed.
5. From Windows click Start / Shutdown / Restart the computer in MS-DOS mode.
6. At the DOS prompt type cd\ and press enter to get to the C:\> prompt.
7. At C:\> type ren autoexec.bat autoexec.ch and press enter to rename the autoexec.bat temporarily.
8. Once this file has been renamed type ren config.sys config.ch and press enter to rename the config.sys.
9. Once each of these files have been renamed, reboot the computer to see if the issue has been resolved.
Windows 95 users may also be able to edit the NOIDE setting within the registry to resolve this issue. If you are using Windows 98, see the next section.
1. Familiarize yourself with the registry and potential issues with editing the registry by reading our registry page.
2. Edit the computer registry by running regedit and open the below path
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\VxD\IOS
3. Locate the NOIDE key, highlight it and delete it by pressing the delete key on the keyboard.
Windows 98 only users
1. On the Windows 98 CD, open the Tools\mtsutil folder
2. In this folder locate the noide.inf file.
3. Right click the file and choose install.
If the issue persists, it's a good possibility that either the hard diskette drive is bad/corrupted or Windows is corrupted. We recommend that you first attempt to reinstall Windows. If this does not resolve the issue, we recommend that you fdisk, format and reinstall all the software on your computer.
CD-ROM drive light blinks every few seconds.
Issue:
CD-ROM drive light blinks every few seconds.
Cause:
Auto Insert Notification is enabled causing the computer to look at the drive to verify if a CD has been placed within the computer.
SCSI CD-ROM is installed and Windows polls the SCSI bus periodically to determine the status of the bus.
Solution:
Follow the below steps to disable Auto Insert Notification if you do not want the CD-ROM drive light to flash occasionally.
- Click Start / Settings / Control Panel / double-click the Systems icon and click the Device Manager tab.
- Click the + next to CD-ROM and double-click the CD-ROM drive listed beneath it.
- Click the Settings tab, uncheck the Auto Insert Notification option and click ok.
- Reboot the computer.
If the computer has a SCSI drive installed, the above steps may or may not resolve this issue.
Windows error "Data or no disk loaded" when audio CD inserted.
Issue:
Windows error "Data or no disk loaded" when audio CD inserted.
Cause:
This issue can be caused by one of the two below possibilities.
1. Bad or non audio CD is inserted.
2. MCI CD audio driver not installed or is corrupt.
Solution:
Bad or non audio CD is inserted.
Ensure that the CD you have currently in the computer is not bad or being misread by the computer by inserting another known good audio CD into the computer.
If another audio CD works it is likely either that the CD is dirty or may be an enhanced CD incompatible with the CD Audio player. Steps on properly cleaning a CD can be found on our cleaning page.
MCI CD audio driver not installed or is corrupt.
If no audio CD is working in the computer but other CDs work fine, it is likely that the MCI CD audio driver is not installed or is corrupt on the computer.
To reinstall / install the MCI CD audio drivers follow the below steps:
1. Click Start / Settings / Control Panel
2. Double-click on Multimedia
3. Click the Advanced tab or Device tab.
4. Double-click Media Control Devices.
5. Double-click CD Audio Device (Media Control).
6. If this device is present and no audio CDs are working, click remove on the general tab in CD Audio Device (Media Control) properties.
7. Close out of all open Windows to get back to the Control panel
8. In Control panel double-click Add New Hardware.
9. Click Next, select No, click Next -- In the box listing the available hardware, select Sound Video and Game controllers and click Next.
10. In the Manufacturers box select Microsoft MCI.
11. In the Models box select CD Audio Device (Media Control).
12. Click Next and Finish.
13. Once Windows has completed the installation of the new device, reboot the computer.
CD-ROM drive running in MS-DOS mode.
Issue:
CD-ROM drive running in MS-DOS mode.
Cause:
Computer Virus
CD-ROM not installed properly
Solution:
The below solution applies only to Microsoft Windows 95 and Windows 98 users.
First check the Performance of the System which can be accessed by clicking Start / Settings / Control Panel / double-click System / click the performance tab / in performance look at the third line down (File System). If this says 32-bit, skip to the reinstalling CD-ROM drivers. If this says anything else it is likely lower in this screen, it may say a message about your computer being infected with a computer virus. Because you are encountering this issue, generally following the upcoming steps will resolve your issue. However, we have done these steps in the past and some viruses erased the information on the hard disk because this command was run. We recommend that you backup your information before attempting any of the below recommendations.
From the MS-DOS prompt, which you can get to by either booting from a diskette or doing Start / Shutdown and restarting the computer in MS-DOS mode, type the below command.
fdisk /mbr
This will recreate the master boot record (effectively removing the master boot record). Once recreated, reboot the computer and your issue should be resolved; if not, continue to reinstalling CD-ROM drivers.
Reinstalling CD-ROM drivers
If your File system was 32-bit or your CD-ROM is still experiencing issues after following the above steps, it is likely you are experiencing CD-ROM driver issues. To resolve this issue, get into Device manager.
Once in device manager click the + next to the CD-ROM drive (if not already a - ) Beneath the CD-ROM highlight the CD-ROM listed and click remove. Once removed reboot the computer. As the computer is rebooting your CD-ROM should be redetected and reinstalled.
CD-ROM not working in Windows 9x, 2000, or XP.
Issue:
CD-ROM not working in Windows 9x, 2000, or XP.
Cause:
Below is a listing of reasons why a CD-ROM may not work in Windows.
1. Computer Virus.
2. Bad or dirty CD.
3. Corrupt or bad drivers.
4. Corruption in Windows.
5. Bad CD-ROM drive or connected improperly.
Solution:
Bad or dirty CD
Make sure you've tested more than one CD in the disc drive, it is possible for one CD to be bad or dirty and not be read properly. If all CDs work but one or two fails, it is likely that CD is bad or dirty. If after cleaning the CDs that do not read you're still getting errors it's likely the disc is bad.
Check Device Manager
1. Click Start
2. Click Settings
3. Click Control Panel
4. Double-click System
5. Click the Hardware tab and then the Device Manager button or just the Device Manager tab.
Within Device Manager verify that the CD-ROM has no exclamation marks or red Xs. If listed with a yellow exclamation mark or red X, remove the CD-ROM with the error and reboot the computer to reinstall the CD-ROM drive. Additional information on device manager can be found on our device manager page.
Corruption in Windows
Try testing the CD-ROM in safe mode. Additional information about how to get into safe mode can be found on document CHSAFE. If the CD-ROM works in safe mode but not in Normal Windows it's likely that another program is running that is causing the issue or that drivers are corrupt. Open device manager and highlight and remove the CD-ROM currently installed and remove it by pressing the delete key. Once done reboot the computer and let Windows reinstall the CD-ROM.
Try booting a CD or bootable diskette
Windows 2000/XP users:
If the above recommendations do not work attempt to boot from the Windows 2000 / XP CD to see if the computer can detect and boot from the CD. If the computer is able to boot from the CD you're encountering a windows driver related issue attempt the above recommendations again.
Windows 98 users:
If the above above recommendations have been attempted, try booting from a Windows 98 diskette or other bootable diskette with CD-ROM drivers to see if the CD-ROM works from MS-DOS. If the CD-ROM does work from MS-DOS, this indicates that you have a corruption with Windows. If, however, the CD-ROM does not work, refer to the next and final possibility. Additional information on bootable disks can be found on our boot disk page.
Verify computer running in 32-bit mode
Windows 95 / Windows 98 users only:
Verify that your computer is running in 32-bit mode by clicking Start / Settings / Control Panel / double-click System / click the Performance tab. Under performance by File System verify it says '32-bit'. If your File System indicates 'MS-DOS' mode see CH000221 document.
Bad CD-ROM drive or connected improperly
SYNTAX
Configures a hard disk for use with MS-DOS.
FDISK [/STATUS] /X
| /STATUS | Displays partition information. |
| /X | Ignores extended disk-access support (will not use LBA support). Use this switch if you receive one of the below symptoms. Unable to access a drive from DOS versions prior to 7. |
SECRET FDISK SWITCHES
Disclaimer: Below is a listing of secret or undocumented MS-DOS fdisk commands and switches. Use these commands at your own risk.
| Command | Information |
| FDISK /MBR | Command used to rewrite the Master Boot Record. |
| FDISK /CMBR | Recreates the Master Boot Record on specified disk. Performs the same functions as FDISK /MBR except can be used on other disk drives. |
| FDISK 1/PRI:100 | Creates a 100MB DOS partition on the hard drive. |
| FDISK 1/EXT:500 | Creates a 500MB meg extended DOS partition on the hard drive. |
| FDISK 1/LOG:250 | Creates a 250MB logical drives on the hard drive. |
| FDISK /Q | Prevents fdisk from booting the system automatically after exiting fdisk. |
| FDISK /STATUS | Shows you the current status of your hard drives. |
| FDISK /ACTOK | Makes FDISK not check the disk integrity allowing the drives to be created faster. |
| FDISK /FPRMT | Will not get the prompt for FAT32 support, in addition allows FDISK to be forced into using FAT32 on drives smaller than 540MB (by default FDISK will not use FAT32 on any drive smaller than 540MB). Finally this command can only be used with FDISK that supports FAT32. |
Fdisk - This would get you into the fdisk option screen that you can see in the fdisk simulation. Also keep in mind when deleting a partitions ANYTHING that is on that partition of the hard drive will be ERASED, also once the partition is delete it will not be redetected until you format that partition, so if you delete your primary partition, which is the c: drive, you will not be able to put anything on that drive or even read from that drive until it is formatted.
See our fdisk simulation for additional information and examples.
FDISK SCRIPT FILE - Fdisk has the capability of being run from an external file, allowing you to quickly create and delete partitions through Fdisk. To do this, create a file from the DOS edit command. Below are the steps required in generating this file.
Edit fdisk.scr - This will place you within the edit screen. Within this screen you will enter the commands you wish to be run in fdisk. For example, if you wish to run fdisk and display the partition information, you would enter 4.
Because fdisk requires you to press enter after you have chosen a selection, you will need to press Ctrl + P and then press Ctrl + M, which will create a music symbol, which acts as a carriage return.
If you need to press the esc key, you would use Ctrl + P and then press esc, which would be represented as a backwards arrow.
When doing the commands to run FDISK, all these must be on one line; do not place each command on separate lines.
Once you have created the script file, you can then type fdisk <> that will then execute the script file. If the script file encounters an error during its process, you will need to recreate the script file where the mistake occurred.
No fixed disk present.
Issue:
No fixed disk present
Cause:
This issue can be caused by any of the below possibilities.
1. Hard disk drive not connected properly
2. Jumpers not set properly
3. CMOS not setup properly
4. Hardware is bad
Solution:
Hard disk drive not connected properly
If the computer has been recently moved or serviced, it is possible that the cables for the hard disk are not connected properly causing this error. Verify that the hard disk drive cables are connected and connected properly to the hard drive and the motherboard.
Jumpers not set properly
If a new IDE device has been recently added to the computer and the jumpers are not set properly it is possible that this issue could occur as the computer cannot boot properly with the jumpers not set properly. Verify that the jumpers on the hard drive or other IDE devices are set properly to Master or Slave.
CMOS not setup properly
Today, most computers will auto detect the hard drive in CMOS but some computers may need for the hard drive to be defined in CMOS. If a hard drive is not defined in CMOS this issue will occur.
If CMOS has the availability for Auto Detect, CMOS values should not need to be entered.
Additional information on how to enter CMOS can be found on our CMOS page.
Listing of most hard drive CMOS settings can be found on our Hard Drive Specification page.
Hardware is bad
If all of the above have been checked and the issue persists it is likely that the computer may have bad hardware. Below is a short listing of hardware that can cause this issue if bad. We suggest replacing the hardware in the below order.
· IDE Cable
· Hard Drive
· Motherboard
Invalid Media Type reading drive C.
Issue:
Invalid Media Type reading drive C
Cause:
This can be caused by one of three following reasons:
- The hard disk drive does not have a valid format.
- The hard disk drive has been fdisk but not formatted.
- The hard disk drive is bad.
Solution:
The hard disk drive does not have a valid format.
If you are receiving this message when your computer boots it is likely that it is unable to read the format on the hard disk drive.
· Boot from a bootable floppy diskette
· Once at the A:\> attempt to type C: and press enter.
· If you do not receive this error message type the below commands.
A:
fdisk /mbr
Sys c:
Once you have received the message System Transferred, reboot the computer and your issue should be resolved.
· If you receive the same Invalid Media Type reading type reading drive C: it is likely that the format on the hard disk drive is invalid and it is recommended that you re-format the hard disk drive by typing the below command after booting from a bootable floppy diskette.
Format c:
This will erase all of your information on the hard disk drive, however, it will recreate the format and should allow your hard disk drive to be read again
The hard disk drive has been fdisk but not formatted:
If you have recently fdisk and deleted and recreated the partition on the hard disk drive, before the hard disk drive can be read you must format the hard disk drive by typing the below command after booting from a bootable floppy diskette.
format c:
This will erase all of your information on the hard disk drive, however, it will recreate the format and should allow your hard disk drive to be read again.
If the hard disk drive was able to successfully format without any errors, Install your Operating System on the computer.
The hard disk drive is bad:
If after following the above steps your hard disk drive is still unable to boot it is likely that the hard disk drive is bad.
