registry corrupted in xp

[coddy]

I've just bought a new pc running xp, but after a couple of days when I tried to boot up I got the error message "Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt
\windows\system32\config\system
You can attempt to repair this file by starting windows setup using the
original setup CDROM.
Select 'r' at the first screen to start repair ".
I've managed to get the thing up and running again using the workaround on the MS knowledgebase, but after digging a bit deeper it seems that a number of people have had similar problems (at least in the early days of xp) and from what people have written/posted, if its happened once its likely to happen again (and again etc). The posts that I've seen suggested a number of reasons as to why it happened, eg bad memory, hardware conflicts, or the registry getting too big and causing problems at startup. As the system stands there's hardly any
extra software been installed yet. Is anyone familiar with the problem or know a way to track the cause of the problem? If it is likely to be a recurring problem, how can I prove this to the retailer so I can get my money back?
System is based around:
Asus a7v
athlon xp2400
512mb ram
80gb hd
firewire caed
ati radeon 9000 graphics card
dvd and cdrw drives

Any thoughts/opinions most welcome
cheers
Mark

[njovin]

Sounds like you bought it from a local shop. Did they install the OS for you? If so, next time you get an error, take it into them and make them fix it, should be under warranty.

[beeboy]

Sounds like a great system. I agree with njovin. If the store installed the OS then you should demand satisfaction. If you installed, I would suggest another clean install if the problem reoccurs. Big box stores can give a lot of trouble with after sales service. The small shop seems to be more customer oriented and knowledgable. I have received nothing but the best of service and help from the folks I deal with.

[rocketpro]

I have exactly the same problem !
P4, 2,4 GHz
Asus P4b533
audigy 2
asus v 9280

Did you manage to solve this problem ?

[ccslb]

I've had the same problem... any joy in fixing it?