I would get the installation disk (any disk of your exact operating system will do) Delete all particians when you get to that option. Reformat and install using the key code printed on the windows...

Maximize window, hold shift key close window...now windows should open maximized.

There is no answer here....I'll check back again sometime...

I can't say for sure how you pick up this crap, but, the quick and easy way to rid a machine of it is to download, update, and run the trial version of SuperAntispyware.....Gets it every time...

I have had excellent results with housecall.trendmicro.com (online scanner)

I once had that problem with a laptop and I held down the function key and pressed the appropriate F1 - F12 (different on different makes) and the screen toggled back to the right display.....hope...

I would reset the bios with reset jumper position or by unpluging and taking the cmos battery out and then put it back in. This will probably reset the boot configuration to where the cdrom is before...

Mabe this will do it...
Open My Computer.

Go to Tools>>Folder Options>>View.

Under "Hidden Files and Folders", uncheck "Launch folder windows in a seperate process". If it is unchecked...

Sounds like to me that your reformat didn't reformat. If you reformat and install xp, It creates a new hal.dll (hardware application layer) I would try it again deleting partician and creating...

Perhaps this will solve your problem...

Restore desktop and screensaver tabs (line 128, right column)

http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm

This tool may work for you:

http://en.sergiwa.com/modules/mydownloads/singlefile.php?cid=2&lid=1

Are you entering the bios to change boot sequence or pressing a key at post to change boot device to cd. I would suggest you change it in the bios. I see you indicated that it stays in setup but...

Do other .exe files run? You might try .exefix_xp found here:

http://windowsxp.mvps.org/exefile.htm

Maybe here....http://www.nvidia.com/object/winxp_2k_93.71_2.html

Get an xp pro disk and reformat and reinstall the OS