missing operating system?

[rick_nj]

ahhhh!! i got this error (maybe a virus? - idunno). i don't even care what it means... but i can't get around it.

1. Is there anyway to reinstall XP home, and keep the old files intact?

OR...

2. if i use the old drive as a slave, how can i get the files... (I am getting a 'not accessable' error)... I am assuming they are proteced?

3. anyone know how to tie a noose?

thanks

[River]

yes you can do a "repair install" of windows xp home and your current files are left intact.

http://www.windowsreinstall.com/winx...exfullpage.htm

good luck!
River~

[rick_nj]

i tried that and only gives me an option to restore on "drive D" (im pretty sure thats the CD, and not the HD).

anywho, i tried setting up the HD as master, and then cable select. for some reason the computer doesn't see the drive.

anything else i can try?

[Play_The_0dds]

what cd for xp do you have. recovery disk, xp home upgrade, OEM or full install? or does your computer have a on-board system recovery?
if you slave the drive to another system you should be able to copy the files you want to keep to the system it is booted to. if you get a access denied message when you try to open the files, use the fix on the link below.
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=810881

[rick_nj]

I have the original cd for xp home that came with the computer (Compaq resario 4403US). I have the recovery disk.

I can see the files, but I can't copy them. i can share the folder (and then a hand icon appears under the folder), but when I try to open or move the file, I get the "Access is denied. make sure the disk is not full or write-protected and that the file is not currently in use" message.

I tried to us the fix, but i couldnt since I have home and not pro.