windows failed to start

I have an inspiron 1521 with vista, when I turn the laptop on I just get the windows boot manager screen saying windows failed to start and the info An error occured while attempting to read the boot configuration data.

It asks for windows installation disc wich I put in and run repair computer but it just goes back to boot manager. I cant system restore or restore factory settings, I have run the test on the HD from the driver and utilities disc but no errors are found.

The problem started when I pressed the dell media direct button instead of the power button and media direct will still start up.

Has anybody had the same issue or can anyone offer me any advice on how to rectify this problem.

Thankyou in advance for any replies.