Alienware M17X R3 Boot Manager error

So I got a problem to share and would like some feedback on it.

I started my computer the other day and got the windows boot mananger error.

File: \boot\BCD
Status: 0x000000f

I run a Samsung 830 and seagate 750GB drive. I also have a 3rd hard drive which I tried to install just after getting this error message. When I switched out the hard drives in the actual computer I get the same error for all 3 hard drives. I am unable to go into safe mode, and unable to boot from the recovery CD or partition. It simply hangs on the "preparing windows setup" screen. I ran the dell diagnostic and get code 79 for all 3 hard drives. I called Alienware and they are sending me a new motherboard. My last repair just a few months ago got me new a new motherboard, graphics card (580 GTX) and heatsinks. I have to say the Alienware support is great but a 2nd motherboard within 6 months is kind of a pain. In your forum opinions is a new motherboard the only probable solution here or can I try anything else?

Thanks.

 

That error usually means one of three things. One, the Windows OS on your boot drive (or parts of it) has become corrupt. You would fix that with the Windows Installation disc and click repair windows as opposed to install windows. Two, the drive itself, sectors of it, or the boot code has become corrupt. In that instance, the drive(s) in question would have to be reformatted and a clean install of Windows done. Third (which seems more likely for you), the BIOS, chipset, or SATA controller has become faulty and isn't reading from any of the drives correctly. One thing I'm tripping on, is the error code you posted the full number? Usually they're like "xxxx-xxxx", and they will also contain a validation code. With the full code, you can look up the error here: Dell Technical Support

 

Thanks for the response.

Error code : 2000-0142
Validation: 25993
Self-test unsuccessful, status 79

Like you said probably SATA controller blew on my mobo, but I appreciate your help.

 

I looked up your error code. It gave the explanation of the hard drive failing the self test. The more I look at the error code and behavior, the more I think your R3 has the SATA connector issue. There was a big deal with a defect in the R3s where the SATA connectors for the hard drives would degrade over time to the point where they'd fail. I think that is why Dell is sending you a new motherboard, because that issue could be present even on a replacement motherboard.

 

Thanks man, that makes perfect sense. I am stuck with my ipad for a week. =o(

 

Just an update for those interested in this....

Got a new Mobo and it was DOA....Alienware wants me to now ship to a depot which I refused...and after argueing they agreed to send in a a new mobo, with power cables, ac adapter, and palmrest for another tech visit. This time around the computer just refused to turn on, no power of any kind. =o(

 

That is probably not to the motherboard. I had that issue many times. It was always the media cover/power button. The tech couldn't reinstall the ribbon cable between the media cover and the motherboard properly so my notebook would never power on afterwards. I would always go behind him and fix it by adjusting the cable slightly until it finally connected properly and the Alien head logo would power on and lite up properly.

 

Thanks Radji, I got everything replaced again and the computer still does not boot properly. I am sitll getting the same errors codes, so after the tech left I took out the seagate 750 (came with system) and just put my samsung 830 in and am reinstalling windows now. So all seems well for now, why would one bad hard drive prevent the other from working? My samsung (not bought from alienware) had my original install on it and would not work with the other seagate in the other slot. The seagate was just for itunes library. Very odd...they are sending me a new seagate next week.

 

And after re-installing windows and doing all drivers....looks like he left my wifi chip on the old motherboard...

 

Uh oh. Do you have his number? Try calling him back.