4010 CDS

Okay, so don't laugh --- I have this old laptop that is still running. I have used it for work in quite a few places, and in the process of uninstalling old client software have somehow corrupted Windows 98 (again, no laughing).

I went to install a wireless adapter and found all these missing windows files. The restorartion CDs seem to do nothing. My Networks and Protocols seem to be missing, etc. I don't have a 98 OS CD.

Now, my thought is to reformat the hard drive and get a version of 98 and install it. Someone at work gave me a copy, but it is a full install not an upgrade so I can't get it to fix my version. Sigh.

Suggestions?

Also, if I do format the hard drive and start again, do I just install Windows? What about the Toshiba stuff?

dana

 

Dana,

I'm not laughing, the 4010's were a solid unit. Excellent construction and will probably out last most notebooks on the market today. With that said, let's see if we can solve your problem.

With the missing files, it could just be because all the networking protocols needed for your network card are not installed. You can easily goto the network properties and add the required protocols (TCP/IP, etc...).

Regarding not having a Win98 CD, well, I believe Toshiba, back in the days, copied all the Win98 CD CAB files into the C:WINDOWSOPTIONSCABS folder on your HDD. You should be able to point to this folder when your system starts asking for files.

The Full version of a Windows 98 CD can be installed as an upgrade I believe. I think all you have to do is insert the CD while in Windows and it'll go through the steps. This is a big maybe, I haven't installed 98 for a couple years, so I'm a bit rusty. If it asks during the install, just have it install and leave current partition intact. This should just overwrite the OS files and replace the defective ones without wiping the entire HDD (MAYBE!).

Good Luck!

-Vb-