[Ray12]

Hello, I have a Dell Dimension 8200 with windows XP. The comupter has locked up during the windows login. While performing an ALT,Crl,Del you can see the CPU is functioning 99% in windows log-in (I believe it may have been corrupted with a virus). I have run a virus scan and cleaned the computer.I had to remove the hard drive to download all important files. I believe the computer can be saved if Windows XP can be reloaded. the hard drive is functioning and run dianostics fine. I have a restore (purple) Windows XP CD that came with the computer. I have changed the BIOS order to boot off the CD. I booted up and ran the CD last night. The problem is the program runs to the Set-up screen giving the options to R=repair or Enter=install. I tried to hit enter and the computer did nothing. I later tried R for repair, after letting the computer sit for hours no response. Any suggestions or differnet steps to get the restore CD to run?

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Hello Ray12...

Starting the Dell PC Restore can be a bit tricky...it's all in the timing.

When you first start the machine, you should see a Dell screen with a "loading bar" near the bottom. When you see this screen, press the Ctrl key and the F11 key...then release them at the same time. It may take a few attempts to get the timing down, but the whole "press/release" must be accomplished while the loading bar is visible.

On some machines, I've had a little better luck by pressing and holding that key combination even before the loading bar appears...then releasing them (at the same time) when the bar begins to load.

One of these methods should start the Recovery program contained on the disk.

wannabe1

[wannabe1]

Hello Ray12...

Starting the Dell PC Restore can be a bit tricky...it's all in the timing.

When you first start the machine, you should see a Dell screen with a "loading bar" near the bottom. When you see this screen, press the Ctrl key and the F11 key...then release them at the same time. It may take a few attempts to get the timing down, but the whole "press/release" must be accomplished while the loading bar is visible.

On some machines, I've had a little better luck by pressing and holding that key combination even before the loading bar appears...then releasing them (at the same time) when the bar begins to load.

One of these methods should start the Recovery program contained on the disk.

wannabe1

[Ray12]

Great, thanks for the response. I will try this process and let you know if it works.

[Ray12]

Great news, it worked! Windows XP boots up fine after the re-format. I cannot get the computer to recognize the internet connection, but I believe this is just a matter of loading the correct driver from the "blue" cds. One step closer to a functioning computer. thanks!

[wannabe1]

Outstanding!

The Dell website is pretty good about keeping drivers updated...