Strange issue in Desktop

Hello,

I am getting an interesting and strange issue in my desktop. Would appreciate if you can help me find out the real reason.

Current condition: Not working at all.
Config - P4-40GB-512 RAM

1. I am not able to install any new OS in my machine. i tried it with dozens of different CD's but in vain. Every time it takes eternal time something like 10-15 hour to reach 30-35% of installation. and then it really stuck...and requires an hour or so to go to next percent.

2. At times, it gives an error of missing system files and dll's. Skipping/Aborting/Restarting doesn't work.

3. During this process I have formatted all my drives one by one. now there is nothing in my system.

4. I tried with different hard drives as well.

5. Somehow, Once I managed to install one trial version of XP SP3. But just for one month. Now even if i try to install the same XP, it doesnt work.

This is 4 year old PC and I can experiment anything or install any OS in it. Please suggest. Will appreciate any bit of help.

Thanks en avance.

i tried it with dozens of different CD's (*drives?) but in vain.

Do you have the original XP Installation CD ?

Try with new good quality SMPS.

I am not really a pro in computer but the way I figure it I think it needed a help of a professional.. or it is time that you are going to replace it with a new one..just a suggestion only..

Originally Posted by abena

I am not really a pro in computer but the way I figure it I think it needed a help of a professional.. or it is time that you are going to replace it with a new one..just a suggestion only..

good idea!!assemble it.

@ alifkaf

Please try installing the OS after each step as each step is a possible solution.

1. Remove all the peripheral Devices connected to the Computer, except the Keyboard and Mouse.

2. Reseat the RAM modules in the Computer.

3. Reset the BIOS to its default settings.

4. Replace the Optical Drive.

If the issue still persists, get your Computer repaired at a local service center.

P.S.- I would have given Ubuntu installation a shot.

Originally Posted by essbebe

Do you have the original XP Installation CD ?

Thanx fr ur response..

not really...but i have tried it with many installation cd's (and have wasted my many many sleeping hours)...and those cd's have the reputation of working fine on other systems...

Originally Posted by baldev

Try with new good quality SMPS.

Thanx fr ur response..

I can try that...if i know it wud work for sure

Originally Posted by abena

I am not really a pro in computer but the way I figure it I think it needed a help of a professional.. or it is time that you are going to replace it with a new one..just a suggestion only..

a bit of professional help means that I have to carry my system all over to Nehru Place(yes..am in new delhi) which indeed is quite cumbersome

i got a good working laptop...so i want to try all shots on my old buddy

thanks indeed fr ur suggestion

Originally Posted by itsmemad

@

Please try installing the OS after each step as each step is a possible solution.

1. Remove all the peripheral Devices connected to the Computer, except the Keyboard and Mouse.

2. Reseat the RAM modules in the Computer.

3. Reset the BIOS to its default settings.

4. Replace the Optical Drive.

If the issue still persists, get your Computer repaired at a local service center.

P.S.- I would have given Ubuntu installation a shot.

Thanks buddy ....would definitely try this ubuntu guide....sounds quite intersting
anything else u wud like to suggest...

is u r cd / dvd drive working properly ?

Finally, my system is back on track..and after all my tries, I followed Abena's suggestion and took my baby to Nehru place....

Although that guy charged me 300 i doubt he did anything special to restore that...All he said that BIOS is corrputed and he has to format it with one BIOS CD that he has (cudnt understand that...but he guranteed that in 300 he would do all that is needed to run this system in case BIOS formatting doesnt work)

Anyways, Its working fine again. So I am happy. But now I can not connect my internet...device manager shows that LAN is not properly installed...i tried installing with multiple drivers but in vain....any suggestions???????

@itsmemad-- thanks for Ubuntu, I requested for Ubuntu CD and to my amazement those guys have sent me the full Ubuntu CD (frm netherlands, it seems)...but the effort is appreciated of course.

Finally, thanks everyone who helped me with their bit of suggestions...and thanks IBF...u rock....

first of all, if BIOS on old motherboards like yours gets corrupted, you have to buy a new board as you can not fix a corrupted BIOS.

Now, use the add rep button and give Abena rep

Then, download this small software called CPUz and tell what exact motherboard model you have (in case you don't know).

Then post the model here and we will find the drivers for LAN. he probably did not install it. If you still have a problem, we can use your comp (via team viewer) and try to fix it.