Computer Help

[cbrown]

I'm sorry I'm not super computer savy. Let me try to clarify.

I can get into to Safe mode via F8 and navigate using the arrow keys. Once I exit this screen it goes to my desktop where it is then frozen again

[Redneck Archer]

gotcha.

so pull the drive out, slave it via usb and scan it that way. could be hardware, but still sounds OS/malware related.

good idea but probably to advanced for him.

if you have EVERYTHING backed up, and would just want a fresh install of XP to put on it we could maybe work something out... let me know.

where exactly are you located? maybe you could ship it to me and I could load XP up for you or just send you a copy of my disc (just not sure which one is the good one anymore).

[RazorSharp]

computer help

gotcha.

so pull the drive out, slave it via usb and scan it that way. could be hardware, but still sounds OS/malware related.

Good idea but I doubt he has the necessary hardware to slave a laptop hard drive in a pc and most laptops dont accept 2 drives.

[Tommyh]

I'm sorry I'm not super computer savy. Let me try to clarify.

I can get into to Safe mode via F8 and navigate using the arrow keys. Once I exit this screen it goes to my desktop where it is then frozen again

if it consistantly boots into the OS regardless of how many times you try, and stops in just abou tthe same spot, whether in safe mode or regular, i wouldnt bet on hardware. Hardware errors will cause it to die randomly, even allowing you to work in the OS before crashing again. an overheated CPU will shut your laptop down and not power back up until its cooled again.

For grins, do you know what model the laptop is, or where the memory is installed at?

[Redneck Archer]

if it consistantly boots into the OS regardless of how many times you try, and stops in just abou tthe same spot, whether in safe mode or regular, i wouldnt bet on hardware. Hardware errors will cause it to die randomly, even allowing you to work in the OS before crashing again. an overheated CPU will shut your laptop down and not power back up until its cooled again.

For grins, do you know what model the laptop is, or where the memory is installed at?

memory shouldnt matter. as you already explained its most likely NOT hardware failure. If it was memory he would probably already know that due to different error messages etc on post.

EASIEST way to beat that virus is to just rebuild it.

[RazorSharp]

Reload windows and be done with it. or go get a new one

[blacksunshine]

reseating the memory wouldn't hurt actually....seen bsod's at the same spot repeatedly...reseated memory, went away...so it's possible and doesn't cost any time or money to do...generally one screw and 2-4 clips to release the ram....in and out...

if you really wanted to get geeky, hiren's boot cd then try one of the registry repair proggies

[TX_Kevin]

Reload windows and be done with it. or go get a new one

Wow. Really? You're a lot of help.
I am with Tommy on this one. If it's not cratering in random places then it's not likely to be a hardware issue. And, Windows will most likely be able to deal with hardware issues at least to the point of chunking a BSOD, and some idea of what failed can be had there as well.

When the thing just flat locks it's likely to be a virus. And, when he says he's found a trojan it gets even more direct.

[Tommyh]

Wow. Really? You're a lot of help.
I am with Tommy on this one. If it's not cratering in random places then it's not likely to be a hardware issue. And, Windows will most likely be able to deal with hardware issues at least to the point of chunking a BSOD, and some idea of what failed can be had there as well.

When the thing just flat locks it's likely to be a virus. And, when he says he's found a trojan it gets even more direct.

i wanna get my hands on it and fix it just so i can figure it out

[Redneck Archer]

i wanna get my hands on it and fix it just so i can figure it out

how long have you been in IT?

I dont care to look at a computer or here about one when I leave work.

[Tommyh]

how long have you been in IT?

I dont care to look at a computer or here about one when I leave work.

since 97.

[Redneck Archer]

since 97.

wow, and you still have the drive to want to see if you can fix it? good for you!!!



I dont have that anymore... I know I am burnt out.

[Tommyh]

wow, and you still have the drive to want to see if you can fix it? good for you!!!



I dont have that anymore... I know I am burnt out.

im burned out too, but when i do it on the side to help someone out its different than sitting at my desk and doing it. my issue is i dont have much side time anymore. id love a new job that paid more and closer to home....