Member Avatar for dps3695

I am having a problem where my computer will not get past the Windows XP home edition screen. I have tried to start in safe mode but the same thing happens.

I am using a compaq presario s4030nx
It is running windows xp service pack 2
This computer has also had a few modifications done.... installed an ATI 9600 Pro graphics card
upgraded the ram to 768
and added a 400 watt power supply to handled a graphics card i plan to install.

Any help anyone can give would be greatly appreciated.

If more information is needed please let me know.

thanks

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by nanosani

Dani AI

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Brief summary and approach: the machine stopping at the "Windows XP Home Edition" splash (and also failing to continue in Safe Mode, as reported by ) is most usefully treated as a diagnostic problem rather than an immediate reinstall. Both low-level drivers and filesystem/drive faults produce the same symptom. Follow non-destructive checks first, capture a boot log so the exact module that stalls can be identified (this implements 's suggestion), and only then try targeted fixes or hardware isolation as suggested.

Practical ordered steps to try (non-destructive first):

  • Press F8 at boot and try "Last Known Good Configuration" and "Disable automatic restart on system failure" to capture any STOP code.

  • Enable "Boot Logging" (F8). After the failed boot, retrieve and inspect C:\Windows\ntbtlog.txt (use the Windows CD/Recovery Console, a bootable WinPE/BartPE disc or a Linux live CD to read the file). Look for the last driver listed and any "FAILED" entries — that name is the key clue.

  • From Recovery Console run basic repairs and rename a failing driver if indicated. Example commands:

    chkdsk /r
fixboot
# use fixmbr only if MBR corruption is suspected (caution)
ren C:\Windows\System32\Drivers\baddriver.sys baddriver.sys.bak

Hardware checks and cautions:

  • Verify the BIOS sees the hard drive and correct boot order. Reseat memory modules and run Memtest86 (bootable CD/USB) for at least a few passes; swap or test one stick at a time. Disconnect non-essential devices and expansion cards to test a minimal configuration. Check power and drive cables for firm seating. Be cautious with fixmbr/fixboot (they can affect multiboot setups) and always back up important data before destructive repair steps. The boot log entry or a STOP code is the most actionable piece of information for the next step.

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Member Avatar for joshSCH

Did this problem occur after you installed the new hardware? If so, it is probably a hardware problem.. and you should take out the hardware you last put in. Then install each hardware piece one by one, making sure you install it properly and that your computer boots up.

Member Avatar for nanosani

When booting in safe mode, on which driver loading does the system hang?

Member Avatar for dps3695

Did this problem occur after you installed the new hardware? If so, it is probably a hardware problem.. and you should take out the hardware you last put in. Then install each hardware piece one by one, making sure you install it properly and that your computer boots up.

I was thinking that at first also, however this hardware has been in place for the last two years (with the exception of the power supply). Do you think it could cause a problem after all that time?

Member Avatar for dps3695

When booting in safe mode, on which driver loading does the system hang?

How do i tell which driver loading it is?

Member Avatar for nanosani

When you're booting in safe mode, you should see the actual drivers loading instead of the windows logo screen. So on which line does it hang on ?

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