[ddg96]

Message: error loading operating system

reboot > cnt alt d to run diag > pass
dell said hard drive may not be bad > reload OS before replacing HD

I can get into system menu > played around a bit. Can't choose last known good config or safe mode.

Does anyone have any other suggestions before I try and reload OS?

Dell Optiplex GX400
Bios A05
Windows XP Professional

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Recovery Console ?
Microsoft

[Les1451]

Recovery Console ?
Microsoft

[gerryf]

that is the message given when the harddrive is bad or missing....first, open it up and check the cables are secure.

If secure, drop into bios and see if bios will redetect the drive.

If that fails, try moving the drive to a different system and see if it will detect and retrieve your data. If it does, the drive is good and the controller may be bad.