Hi Dave (comments interspersed) > Well my 2001 PC is acting up again. Not allowing me to boot. I seem to > be able to get into it via the safemode, F8 key.
First things first, do you have a backup of all data on the system? Also, have you tried logging in as a different user? Same problem? > - I am trying to restore my system to a previous good date. I am now > into to hour two waiting for it to do so, how long should this take. If you mean F8 and boot to last known good it should be a matter of seconds. Last known good only means loading a different, older registry portion for certain settings. These are overwritten upon logon completion so usually they are pretty worthless after a half complete login failed on the profile level. If you mean XP system restore two hours aren't normal either. Basically you can let it run for a while yet without harm assuming it isn't a thermal issue. Can you take off a side cover and check air and hard disk temperatures? The HD is OK to be hot to the touch but you should be able to leave your hand on there as long as you like. Also, while you're in there, listen for very regular ticking/scratching noises from the hard disk. If it is a persistent pattern, it usually means your disk is mechanically defective and cannot reach a certain sector. It could of course just be Windows XP that is dodgy. (I take the liberty to assume you're no longer running 2000 if you speak of a system restore). Have you tried a repair install/in-place upgrade? The XP setup disk needs to be the same service pack level as your current install. If yours isn't, you can use a different computer and nLite (great tool) to create one. The process is called slipstreaming and officially supported by Micro$oft. I won't comment on your buying advice request as I am all about server hardware, I haven't owned a computer since 2004, all I ever have is work laptops. HTH Ecke -- PDML Pentax-Discuss Mail List PDML@pdml.net http://pdml.net/mailman/listinfo/pdml_pdml.net to UNSUBSCRIBE from the PDML, please visit the link directly above and follow the directions.
