I had partition magic , my C drive has primary Xp and bootable linux. When I was cleaning some old files, I clicked on one of the dos commands under partition magic folder, it opened a dos command and asked me to select which one to use, In a hurry I selected 2 (linx boot drive). My computer shut down and during re-start it says it can't find the operating system. I did complete shutdown and re-started. It still gives the same message.
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posted: Aug. 6, 2006 @ 5:01a
AnhLoc
Cranky Member
posted: Aug. 6, 2006 @ 8:35a
a lot of possibility. you might have delete the drive, part of a partition, or a file.
try running recovery console with your xp cd. if the windows partition is there check to see if your windows partition is active with "diskpart" if not set it active try "fixboot" and "fixmbr"
otherwise maybe other members here know another way.
sometimes i just give up, take out the drive, set as slave and put in another computer, pull all your save data/document and do a new system install. if you have a working backup image on ghost or acronis, it would be better. it might be less frustrating and time consuming than figuring why/how/what. good luck.
Your Partition Magic CD should be bootable. Stick it in the cd drive, and boot the PC. Start partition magic, take a look at the drive, and see what partitions are there, what size they are, etc. Not sure what you did, but hopefully this is something as simple as setting a partiton "active" again, or something.
Post back what you see there.
4deals
Senior Member
posted: Aug. 6, 2006 @ 2:20p
I am not able to go to command prompt. I don't know where I kept my PM CD. I have bootable Disk which I created with PM, at that time my OS was windows me..... When I tried to booot from that disc it gives error and only goes to A:\\ Is there any way to get back to original boot ?
You might be able to edit the boot.ini file, so that it reflects your Windows partition as your boot drive. (read me)
P.S. If you have data that you absolutely must not lose, you should concentrate on data recovery first, fixing your system last.
4deals
Senior Member
posted: Aug. 6, 2006 @ 5:01p
Can you, please explain step by step. I don't understand where to type bootcfg as suggested in the readme. Yes I want to recover the data first. Appreciate your help.
maddiebeagle said: You might be able to edit the boot.ini file, so that it reflects your Windows partition as your boot drive. (read me)
P.S. If you have data that you absolutely must not lose, you should concentrate on data recovery first, fixing your system last.
Enter the recovery console, and use the command bootcfg /rebuild. It should scan your HD for windows installations, and edit the boot.ini file for you, so that windows loads at the next reboot. Or at least that's how its supposed to work
Enter the recovery console, and use the command bootcfg /rebuild. It should scan your HD for windows installations, and edit the boot.ini file for you, so that windows loads at the next reboot. Or at least that's how its supposed to work
I just updated the post right above yours ("here's another good page to read"). I think that'll tell you everything you need to know. If not, ask again.
Please be aware that some harm could come to your linux partiton, if it hasn't already disappeared, if you do a repair installation. I don't know for sure, I really don't deal with Linux very much. Be careful, and good luck, again.
4deals
Senior Member
posted: Aug. 7, 2006 @ 2:48p
Thanks .
I red all the info, now feeling comfortable . But where do I get windows bootable CD ? Followed steps referenced
here But my XP SetpCD doesn't have any bootable option hence failed at Step 4. (missing .img)
Can you please give me some pointers on creating bootable CD
Any genuine Windows CD since about Win98 should be bootable. AFAIK, EVERY WinXP CD should be bootable! You may need to setup your BIOS so that the CD drive is the first boot device, for it to work automaticaly. Otherwise, you may need to press F12, or some other F-key to manually choose your boot device.
4deals
Senior Member
posted: Aug. 7, 2006 @ 6:26p
You mean to say , I can just use my XP CD and boot the system ? Or do I need to create a bootable CD ? Please clarify.
Thanks
maddiebeagle said: But where do I get windows bootable CD ?
Any genuine Windows CD since about Win98 should be bootable. AFAIK, EVERY WinXP CD should be bootable! You may need to setup your BIOS so that the CD drive is the first boot device, for it to work automaticaly. Otherwise, you may need to press F12, or some other F-key to manually choose your boot device.
Please be aware that some harm could come to your linux partiton, if it hasn't already disappeared, if you do a repair installation. I don't know for sure, I really don't deal with Linux very much. Be careful, and good luck, again.
Hi,
I tried both the methods, Recovery and re-setup as in Here's a good page that'll explain this in detail.. Everything works as described in Recovery mode. But When I try to re-boot it shows : " EZ-BIOS : Intializing..... EZ-BIOS : Hold the CTRL key down for Status screen or boot from floppy.... EZ-BIOS : Continuing startup ....
Missing operating system"
I also tried fixboot and fixmbr too....
Looks like I am missing some simple switch ? Can you guys know what going wrong ?
Oh, you didn't mention you were using a drive overlay. You're probably screwed. EZ-BIOS is used for compatibility where a BIOS won't natively support the size hard drive you've chosen to use. Its been years since I've used that. For good reason.
I don't know how to help you at this point. Sorry.
Years since I've worked with EZ-BIOS as well. The fact that we were giving you advice without knowing that critical piece of information may have permanently destroyed your data. Or maybe not
Please tell us exactly what you've done. Did you execute a FIXMBR command? Did you make any changes with Partition Magic? Did you make an emergency boot floppy when you installed the drive overlay software?
4deals
Senior Member
posted: Aug. 9, 2006 @ 9:15a
Yes. I did run the fixmbr. No changes made with PM. I did made emergencey disk with PM at that time my OS was WindowsMe, when I try to boot with that disk it gives ERROR... and at the end goes to A:\\ I have one disk which came with Western Digital HD. Can that be helpful ?
Any work arounf using PM CD . (Eventhough I don't have the old version, may be the new version can help ?)
ellory said: Years since I've worked with EZ-BIOS as well. The fact that we were giving you advice without knowing that critical piece of information may have permanently destroyed your data. Or maybe not
Please tell us exactly what you've done. Did you execute a FIXMBR command? Did you make any changes with Partition Magic? Did you make an emergency boot floppy when you installed the drive overlay software?
There is no work around using Partition Magic. And the FIXMBR made things much worse as we didn't know that you had drive overlay software.
Did you make an emergency boot disk with your Drive Overlay software when the drive was first installed? If so that may have recovery tools - but it may no longer work because of the FIXMBR
As far as your one disk that came with the drive from Western Digital, that could be helpful since that's probably where the drive overlay software came from. But, as I can't see what's on it, i can't tell
This bootmaster disk may help. These instructions are how to remove the overlay, which might be worth doing - and then move the hard drive to another computer or external USB drive to see if your data is accessable - and then retry maddiebeagle's instructions
But - it could also make things worse. If your data is valuable, stop right here and consider a data recovery service like ontrak. Expect to pay at least $1000
I don't know whether Ultimate Boot CD for Windows will work in your case or not. Maybe ellory or others can answer that. Just throwing out possible options. Good luck
gujjuguy said: I don't know whether Ultimate Boot CD for Windows will work in your case or not. Maybe ellory or others can answer that. Just throwing out possible options. Good luck
I think not. We need to resolve the drive overlay problem first. The last bit of information I linked to at the end of my prior post has Western Digital troubleshooting instructions that **may** be helpful
OP, it sounds like EZ-BIOS is still installed, and trying to work properly, but it simply can't find the operating system.
Do you have data that you absolutely have to get back, or is it really no big deal if you lose some or all of it?
If you absolutely must get it back, first step would be telling you to download Ontrack's Easy Recovery Professional data recovery TRIAL. You'll obviously need to install this in a working computer, and then move your "problem" drive to that system, to see if recovery via software will likely work, or not. Heck, there's a "chance" that sticking the drive in a later model system (with newer BIOS) will work on its own, too. Just don't know, haven't tried recovery from a drive overlay. Run the trial, and see if your data can be found.
It it looks like it will work, consider hiring a local, qualified tech to examine the drive, since he may already own data recovery software. This "psychic remote viewing" that we practice here isn't working so well. Ontrack has a "25 files at a time" version that is much cheaper, and can get the job done if you don't mind it taking longer.
If you don't care about your data, I advise you wipe the drive completely (including the boot track), reinstall EZ-BIOS, and start from scratch...this time making sure to keep a good, current backup...you'll need it again someday.
P.S. The ultimate boot cd for windows may or may not work. I think it's something I would try, before chucking the drive. I don't see it fixing your computer, but it does have a few free data recovery tools you can try.
One other thing. Maybe you go buy a new hard drive. Get it set up and working (remove your "problem" drive first. After you get it working, introduce the old drive back into the system on the secondary channel, and see if your data can be found. Worth a shot...
There's a lot to digest in the thread. One of them being that moving the drive to another system with a new BIOS could even make the problem worse. I just don't know what will happen if you do that, so you'll have to weigh the risks and decide if it's worth it, or not. I feel for ya, really.
4deals
Senior Member
posted: Aug. 9, 2006 @ 12:27p
Hi,.... ellory , maddiebeagle , : Thanks for the info. I didn't knew anything about the overlay....sorry for not informing... I found the WD Data Lifeguard Tools 10 Disk.... One small doubt. the WD web site claims that EZ-BIOS only works with "Windows 98 and ME". Since I have upgraded to XP. Does this still work ? Before trying any thing I want to confirm from the masters like you.
Few questions : 1. I am OK to if the data is lost (I took permission from wife .) 2. If I am not able to fix the OS problem, what are my options of installing OS again. 3. In the same cpu , I have slave HD (120GB with slave drive) , with imp doc. Can I make this as master ? If so can you explain (step by step). Will this erase existing data in slave drive. 4. If making slave drive as master is not advisable... If I buy a new HD and replace with the existing defected HD. Then How to install the OS on this new HD.
Appreciate your time and patience . Thanks
ellory said: There is no work around using Partition Magic. And the FIXMBR made things much worse as we didn't know that you had drive overlay software.
Did you make an emergency boot disk with your Drive Overlay software when the drive was first installed? If so that may have recovery tools - but it may no longer work because of the FIXMBR
As far as your one disk that came with the drive from Western Digital, that could be helpful since that's probably where the drive overlay software came from. But, as I can't see what's on it, i can't tell
This bootmaster disk may help. These instructions are how to remove the overlay, which might be worth doing - and then move the hard drive to another computer or external USB drive to see if your data is accessable - and then retry maddiebeagle's instructions
But - it could also make things worse. If your data is valuable, stop right here and consider a data recovery service like ontrak. Expect to pay at least $1000
Well, in an ideal world, I'd try talking you into adding a new hard drive controller into your system (into a PCI slot, if you have 1 available). This way, you could use a big hard drive without having to worry about drive overlay software (as you can see, it adds a lot of risks). Even better would be a motherboard upgrade, but at that point, heck, buy a new sub $300 system!
Anyway, then you'd install XP as normal...your system would use the HDD controller card to access the hard drive, rather than the motherboard's built in controller.
Please tell us exactly what kind of computer you are using...was this homebuilt, or store-bought? Have you checked to see if there is an updated BIOS available, that may allow for larger hard discs?
So, your other hard drive also had drive-overlay software installed so your system could see its entire size??? Better be careful what you do with it, too.
Reply back with your system specs, and we'll advise from there.
Also let us know if this drive was originally in another computer and got moved to this computer. (I'm not worried about the Win98/WinMe compatability. The software was probably built before they had a chance to test with XP)
4deals
Senior Member
posted: Aug. 9, 2006 @ 1:22p
System details :
HP Pavilion 8775C It came with WD 30GB HD, 128 RAM, CD-ROM , DVD-ROM. and WinMe. Then I made 2 partion one with 22GB and other with 8GB using PM 6. In the 8GB I installed Linux with bootable disk. I added 120GB WD, 128MB RAM, SONY DVD-RW. Later upgraded to WinXP. ( I am not 100 % sure whether I did 2nd HD install first and then upgraded to XP or the other way).
The Original WD 30GB , is where my OS is sitting and having problem. When I go F1 setup , it just shows Win98/2000. No XP.
I have no idea why the hard disc had EZ-BIOS installed on it, then, because that PC should easily support 30GB without resorting to drive overlay. Perplexing.
Anyway, you should be able to completely wipe that disc (if you're positive you don't need the data). Try using "Darik's Boot & nuke", as I'm almost 100% sure that will wipe the boot track (and therefore EZ-BIOS) off of the drive. Then remove the other drive for safety's sake, so you don't accidnetally format it or something. Actually, REMOVE your OTHER drive for safe keeping before doing ANYTHING else! Then install XP as normal.
After that's up and running well - BACK IT UP WITH EITHER GHOST OR TRUE IMAGE. Then reinstall your other data drive. Then if you want to play with Linux, go ahead, but again consider backing it up once you have it just how you like it. You won't have to deal with this problem again if you backup/image your system and its files.
Good luck!
Mark
4deals
Senior Member
posted: Aug. 9, 2006 @ 3:27p
I am at work, will try the following when I get home :
1. Disconnect the 2nd HD. 2. Use WD Disk and remove the overlay. If I remove the EZ-BIOS will my system boot with bootable CD ? 3. Install OS on the affected HD. 4. If everything works fine, connect the 2nd HD.
Am I doing it right ?
Didn't get answer for -- on making 120GB HD as primary without loosing existing data.
Sorry I missed the one question. I want to say, "yeah, not a problem, just make sure you leave the file system as is when you install XP on that disk", but I have to tell you that you really ought to go buy another cheap hard disk to be safe, or make a backup of all your data before beginning. When you start the XP install, it will ask you where (which disk) to install XP at...YOU MUST not choose Quick format, OR the other Format choice...you MUST choose the "leave the file system alone" choice (paraphrasing).
This is risky risky risky if you ask me. I'd feel much much better if you spent $40 for a new drive and didn't risk your data!
BTW, how is the data on that drive? Is it throw in one folder? Is it all in the root of the drive? You could be making a mess for yourself. Be careful.
Wont using the Win XP disc offer you to boot to cd, and then press F6 to enter the Recovery console to deal with maddie's earlier fixmbr option?
4deals
Senior Member
posted: Aug. 10, 2006 @ 12:24p
Yesterday, when I was about to fix the PC with overlay removal. My wife said she needs the data and hence asked not to make any changes.
Now I am deciding to take that HD and put a new one.
So when I snap the new HD in place of the corrupted one. <font color=white style="background-color: #3E3E3E;">What are steps involved to install OS on the new HD ? .
Any links with pic or step by step instructions please....
So, you're going to buy a brand-new hard drive, with NOTHING already on it?
If so, just put the drive in per instructions that will come in the box. Put the XP CD in the CD-ROM drive, reboot your system. You MAY need to tell the system, via keystroke, or BIOS setting, to boot from the CD drive. From there, you really shouldn't need any help if you're able to read. You'll need to enter your name. You'll need to enter your time zone. Altogether, an hour or so to install XP, PLUS whatever time it takes to download updates and patches, plus load your programs onto the system.
IF you run into a problem, ask for help. You should read the Malware sticky/guide so you can secure your system immediately after installing it. Good luck!
Mark
4deals
Senior Member
posted: Aug. 11, 2006 @ 2:21p
Finally I was able to fix the OS . Here is what I did :
1.I installed XP again. Was unable to remove overlay ... The WD overlay removal steps didn't work. 2.But it was still showing the Missing OS. While trying to figure out when the PC was starting to boot , pressed the ctrl key. Now it showed EZ-Bios setting with C and D drive. There was prompt asking to boot from A or C. Selected A thinking to boot from WD disk. But forgot to insert disk 3.Now it recognized my OS and opened XP install that was done in step 1. It asked product key ... and finally said it completed installation. 4.While on re-start it again went to same EZ-BIOS missing OS. 5.Again I did ctrl and boot from A. 6.This time it started XP......and all my original settings user accounts files everything is intact and my D drive is fine.
Now everything working fine. I am not going to shut this OFF or don't want to reboot ,.....
I have one problem, its not able to access my modem. When I do 198.162.0.1 , its not reaching my modem ? Any clue ?
Thanks
Forgot to mention , I didn't do it on the new HD . But on the existing HD....
I was able to reboot the system with the same way that I recovered my OS. Again its going to EZ-BIOS, I need to do Ctrl and select A option...
With "WinSockXPFix" I was able to fix the Windows Socket issue. Now my interenet is working.
Only one problem I am having is my DVD-ROM is not ejecting, when I press the eject button , light blinks and goes -off without any action. I upgraded the driver. The DVD ROM is SD-M1402. Any idea whats going on ?
Did you wipe your system with DBAN by booting directly off the CD drive? (make sure the BIOS has the CD first in boot order)
If not, start over again. As far as the drive, right click on the icon and see if it ejects. Also, see if it ejects before windows loads. If not, try ejecting with a paper clip. If none of these works, the eject mechanism has failed and the drive needs to be replaced
4deals
Senior Member
posted: Aug. 15, 2006 @ 2:09p
No , I didn't use DBAN method... When I do a right click on the drive, windows core dumps... Need to try other method...
ellory said: Did you wipe your system with DBAN by booting directly off the CD drive? (make sure the BIOS has the CD first in boot order)
If not, start over again. As far as the drive, right click on the icon and see if it ejects. Also, see if it ejects before windows loads. If not, try ejecting with a paper clip. If none of these works, the eject mechanism has failed and the drive needs to be replaced
You really need to get rid of the EZ-BIOS. Best I can tell, it is not needed and it will vastly complicate data recovery and prevent the use of normal diagnostic / troubleshooting tools
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