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    HELP! Need to reformat but can't!

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by Calvabunga, Sep 3, 2005.

  1. Calvabunga

    Calvabunga Notebook Enthusiast

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    Hi,

    My sister's going into university and she just got an email from her school that she needs to have SP2 installed.
    So we install it onto her machine, but after the installation, the USB and video drivers don't work anymore.
    So I reinstall the drivers but the USB still doesn't work.
    So I try reinstalling Windows on top, but it TOTALLY screws up!
    Now I can't boot up... well, it goes to the Windows screen and reboots shortly after.
    I want to reformat, but can't even go into the dos prompt for me to do the 'format c:' function

    Anyone know what to do please?
    I have to have this problem fixed by tomorrow as she's leaving the morning after tomorrow
    Thanks SO MUCH for your help!
     
    Calvabunga, Sep 3, 2005
    #1
  2. mtrivs

    mtrivs Notebook Evangelist

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    try booting from a windows 98 boot disk and running a reformat. Alternatively, you could use a boot cd like Ultimate Boot CD to get you to a dos prompt.
     
    mtrivs, Sep 3, 2005
    #2
  3. ZaZ

    ZaZ Super Model Super Moderator

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    Try Windows update for USB drivers.
     
    ZaZ, Sep 3, 2005
    #3
  4. azntiger1000

    azntiger1000 Notebook Deity

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    use the windows xp cd. it can format and install too. you can also have the choice to do it quick or complete format.
     
    azntiger1000, Sep 3, 2005
    #4
  5. drumfu

    drumfu super modfu

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    boot from your xp cd and start over
     
    drumfu, Sep 3, 2005
    #5
  6. Venombite

    Venombite Notebook Virtuoso

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    You might need to upgrade your Chipset drivers (most likely Intel). Goto the Intel site and download the lastest Chipset drivers for your notebook. Install them and see if it helps.

    -Vb-
     
    Venombite, Sep 3, 2005
    #6
  7. Charles P. Jefferies

    Charles P. Jefferies Lead Moderator Super Moderator

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    Yes, that is the best solution. Put it in the CD drive and start the computer. If it just boots into regular windows, go into the BIOS on startup and change the boot order - switch the CD drive to #1.
     
    Charles P. Jefferies, Sep 4, 2005
    #7