Member Avatar for benjamap

I recently built up a new system and have been trying to install xp but i keep getting "cannot copy (filename), press enter to retry, esc to skip, F3 to quit setup". when i press enter to retry, which could be from 1 to 101 times, i get various blue screens of death, or a black screen with a cursor. this happens with both xp home and xp pro. I've even tried to install 98 first so i could then do an upgrade, but it keeps hanging. I'm wondering if maybe my ram is dodgy?? Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by exchequer598

Dani AI

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This thread shows the classic "cannot copy file" during Windows XP setup and the quick-swap suggestions already posted by and . The most useful next step is systematic isolation: test one subsystem at a time so the cause can be identified and fixed rather than guessed.

Start with memory and BIOS:

  • Boot a dedicated memory tester (for example, use Memtest86) and run several full passes. Test each DIMM one at a time and in every slot to distinguish a bad stick from a bad slot.
  • Reset BIOS to defaults, disable any memory overclock/XMP-like settings, and set timings/voltage to SPD or the module spec. Clear CMOS between major changes.

Then simplify the system:

  • Remove all nonessential cards and drives. Install with minimum components (one stick of RAM, CPU, video if required) to reduce variables.
  • Swap cables (IDE/SATA/power) and try a different optical drive or a USB-based installer if available. If the board supports AHCI/SATA modes, switch to legacy/compatibility mode during XP install unless you provide the controller driver via F6.

Other checks before returning parts:

  • Test the target hard drive with the vendor diagnostic tool, and try a known-good PSU if power instability is suspected.
  • If errors stop when using one specific part (slot, stick, drive), that item should be replaced or RMA'd.

If the problem was resolved by replacing RAM, document which stick/slot failed and the BIOS settings that were in use. That helps prevent the same failure on a future rebuild and keeps troubleshooting time low. For a bootable memory tester, see Memtest86 (https://www.memtest86.com/).

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Member Avatar for DenisOxon

Hi,

Try cleaning your cd with screen cleaner or similar, then put it back in drive and see what haqppens. Sounds like either a dirty or scratched cd.

Member Avatar for benjamap

both discs are in perfect condition but thanks. i think i've found the problem... faulty ram.

Member Avatar for exchequer598

This problem can occur when you burned your windows installation discs using the 'on-the-fly' mode.. Try using a temporary hard-disk image while burning so that your burn software doesn't mess up with erroneous files!

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