Missing file after BIOS update HELP!?

Question

I did a BIOS update via a hard disk from the Dell Inspiron 4000 download section,..  all seemingly went well with the bios update,  but when I now startup it goes straight to an error reading:' Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt:  \WINDOWS\inf\biosinfo.inf '   'you can attempt to repair this file by starting windows setup using the original Setup CD..' I have tons of stuff on this laptop that i need for work,  and now its like a paper weight..  HELP  anyone!?

Bay Wolf · Answer

Updating a BIOS on a 'C' series notebook using the hard drive method is VERY risky.  You should have used the floppy disk method.  That one is a much more stable program.   http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;829784&Product=winxp http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

NemesisDB · Answer

Occassionally flashes will cause issues like this. It isn't a paper weight though. You have a couple of options:

1) downflash (using a floppy!!!) and hope it solves the problem

2) do a repair installation of windows (you shouldn't lose data so long as it's not a clean install)

How recent are you backups? If they're not recent and you have 'tons of important' stuff, consider removing the HD and attaching it to another computer via a USB2 enclosure (around $15). Copy off your data files for a quick and dirty backup and then do one of the above. Once you get things working, invest in a good external drive and some backup software like acronis -- image regularly

Patmichalouski · Answer

I would try to use some recocery software before doing anything on your computer.This is the only chace to recover your files

Patmichalouski · Answer

Sorry , i read to fast your post . Use your hd as an external hd from any computer and backup everything . Once this is done , clean install and restore your datas

BEEFCOPTER · Answer

Thanks for the help, Its all back up now, thought I'd post what I did in case anyone else has same prob.

I used the windows recovery tool and finangled my my through the dos prompts to copy the file that it said was missing.. very basic, and now everything is back to normal.. in the mean time i did purchase a new Inspiron 6000 should be here shortly.. little concerned about the XP media center edition though:smileyindifferent:..?

NemesisDB · Answer

pro is better than MCE in my opinion (and obviously costs $100 more form dell), but MCE isn't bad if you're actually using your notebook a lot for things like tv

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Missing file after BIOS update HELP!?

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