If it’s software related rather than hardware (bad memory) then it’s likely that you may have to do an OS repair or reinstall (windows is not booting in Normal or Safe mode)?

 

If you have an Emergency Repair Disk (ERD 1.44-MB floppy) or can source one or create one from someone else using Windows 2000 PE, the procedure is here.

 

Alternatively an in-place upgrade/repair is here, important that you read the related links included in KB2921.

 

Many thanks for this info which I will note and put in safe keeping for future reference.

 

I tried last good configuration one more time and the Gods smiled down upon me. Something worked and I got Explorer. I've spent the last 50 minutes backing up what I should have backed up on a regular basis. I don't know why this didn't work first time - I suppose it could ahve been a combinaion of hardware and software issues  - I also spent some time re-seating RAM sticks, eliminating keyboard and mouse Hw issues and clearing about 1/2ton of dust out of the casing.

 

Anyway I have some sort of reprieve for the time being, so it would seem.

 

Thanks again,

 

Rob90

If not already done you should now create an ERD floppy.

 

Well, no, not quite.

 

I managed to extract some vital data while the system booted up . I want to speak to Dell support tomorrow before overwriting the OS to see if there are any options re overwriting particular system files eg ntoskrnl.exe which is cited in my blue screens.

 

Any ideas?

 

http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=183169&sd=RMVP more reading, If you remember installing a driver or software prior to this BSOD, remove the software or roll the driver back..