Computer crashed - unable to start windows- help

the2ofus


Joined: 13/02/2008
Posts: 637

Message Posted:
06/10/2009 09:08

I am hoping someone can help (as many of you have done on previous occassions). Turned my lap top on yesterday and the screen is black. White writing message says;

"windows unable to start due to missing or corrupt file \system32\hal.dll. Please re install this file.

How do i do that ? It is a Dell laptop that came ready loaded with windows so i do not have a spare disc !! How will it be able to reinstall if windows cannot open in the first place ?/ Ooooh it is soooo confusing !!!

Any advise (in idiot terminology please !) would be appreciated. Thanks.

Pogle


Joined: 28/08/2008
Posts: 1536

Message Posted:
06/10/2009 09:16

Call Aiden 0533 844 9298, he helped us last year and hopefully he can do the same for you. Good luck.

the2ofus


Joined: 13/02/2008
Posts: 637

Message Posted:
06/10/2009 09:56

Thanks Pogle

DutchCrusader



Joined: 19/05/2008
Posts: 11281

Message Posted:
06/10/2009 10:31

Everybody should have an original (legal) install/repair CD/DVD with the Operating System you use on your computer - it saves you money later when something goes wrong with the OS (and one day it will...). It should have been in the box when you bought your computer or given to you by the seller if you bought your computer second hand. Unfortunately there are countries where the situation is different and computers are often sold with an illegal OS on the hard drive. One of the bad consequences is that Microsoft tries hard to make it impossible to update illegal OS'es, which means that you cannot download critical safety updates. Etc.

the2ofus


Joined: 13/02/2008
Posts: 637

Message Posted:
06/10/2009 13:35

DutchCrusader

i do have the Dell disc that was already installed when i purchased the lap top - but when i put it in the laptop it won't read it - because of the initial problem!!!! Its off to the lap top doc now for a check up.

Thanks

DutchCrusader



Joined: 19/05/2008
Posts: 11281

Message Posted:
06/10/2009 18:22

RE msg 5, the2ofus: (...) i do have the Dell disc that was already installed when i purchased the lap top - but when i put it in the laptop it won't read it - because of the initial problem!!!! (...)

=> Dear the2ofus: Whatever Dell wishes/wished to install on your computer (possibly some printer drivers etc) - you need to re-install or repair the Operating System. And that is *not* provided by Dell or any other computer manufacturer. The Microsoft Operating System (Windows x.x version, XP, Vista, "7" on a CD/DVD) is the name of the game.

the2ofus


Joined: 13/02/2008
Posts: 637

Message Posted:
06/10/2009 22:18

Dear DC - as i said in message 1 - " It is sooooo confusing !" . Thanks though for trying to explain it to me.

negativenick


Joined: 10/11/2008
Posts: 6023

Message Posted:
06/10/2009 22:21

you tried a lump hammer ?

Biker



Joined: 11/01/2008
Posts: 396

Message Posted:
06/10/2009 22:32

Hi the2ofus

If you have the initial cd I can help you get it working or reinstall windows again.

I am in Girne and my number is 05338774266

Give me a call if you decide.



Biker

jgdaffy


Joined: 02/10/2009
Posts: 43

Message Posted:
06/10/2009 23:10

Hi the2ofus

If you havent sorted already and need help, i do have most windows operating system discs, and normaly sort most comp problems. As back in uk i use to build PCs for friends as abit of a hobby. Im lapta area and in most of the day. My no 05338439065...John...

Hector


Joined: 26/08/2008
Posts: 2352

Message Posted:
06/10/2009 23:44

Ah ha! Had exactly the same problem on Friday. Took the laptop into Laconic Computers in Girne who reinstalled Windows XP for 50ytl. Got it back this afternoon. Just ensure they install English UK version for keyboard etc.

the2ofus


Joined: 13/02/2008
Posts: 637

Message Posted:
07/10/2009 08:04

Thanks everyone - nice to know there are so many people out there who are willing to help. I took it into Comak yesterday (but i didn't know i had to take the leads/power pack as well DUH l !!!!! so it took 2 trips) and they say it may be ready today. Have this spare one but it hasn't got my skype phone etc loaded and i didn't want to re load verything if the other was going to be ok.

I shall keep this thread marked in case (who am i kidding lol) WHEN i need help again so that i have your numbers.

Thanks

DutchCrusader



Joined: 19/05/2008
Posts: 11281

Message Posted:
07/10/2009 10:00

RE msg 11, Hector: Don't take this wrong - I really don't condemn people who do as you did. But you are (still) running an illegal Operating System and it has consequences for your computer safety. First of all you don't know whether the new OS is free of malware. Secondly you will not be able to install critical updates and Service Packs, when they are offered by Microsoft. So the question is: are the risks worth saving a couple of Pounds for a legal Operating System? My answer (again, a personal opinion) is NO. The OS is the very basis of a healthy computer and it's the only way to keep the computer healthy.