Boot failure

[c_m_wood]

Since installing a new Sony DVDRW drive in my system I have been unable to start it with messages such as Boot failure appearing followed by a request to insert a BOOT diskette. I have tried reinstalling XP but it appears not to have worked. I do not want to format the drive as I need the data on it so any help would be greatly appreciated.

1.5GHz P4
256MB RAM
Windows XP Pro
Sony DVDRW
Relisys DVD
Maxtor 60GB HDD

[Azn_tweaker]

did u install Sony DVDRW drive properly?

[c_m_wood]

I installed it as far as plugging it into an IDE cable, altering the jumpers on the existind DVD drive to slave and plugging in its power. I can't install and drivers as I havent been able to start it since though the first screen upon switching it on shows both drives. Thanks.

[Azn_tweaker]

can u download the drivers?

[c_m_wood]

Probably but i cant get the system to go beyond the black screen with white text never mind onto the desktop to install them.

I did try unplugging the DVDRW and starting up with the original configuration but the same problem arose making me think that I damaged something when I had the top off.

[Azn_tweaker]

did u try going into safe mode?

[c_m_wood]

Don't even get that far into the startup. It fails on the second screen after the RAM check.

[Azn_tweaker]

maybe u damaged somthing in ur PC. try going to a PC store and ask for a repair..

[c_m_wood]

Thanks for your help I might well have to do that.

[Azn_tweaker]

No Problem.. Glad i could help

[c_m_wood]

Hi. Have sorted that problem by getting the backdoor password for the BIOS (I didn't have the main one) and clicking to automatically detect hdds. However, I now have two operating systems installed on the hdd both of which are XP Pro. How cxan I remove one of these. Thanks.

[ultrasolve]

Have a look at my answer to the post below.

http://www.softwaretipsandtricks.com...&threadid=9511