Missing or Corrupt File: System32\DRIVERS\pci.sys

Question

The computer I am having a problem with is a Dimension XPS-B 8001 with a Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition. On startup after the blue Dell logo it stops at a black screen with white letters with this error message: Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt:  System32\DRIVERS\pci.sys.  You can attempt to repair this file by starting Windows Setup using the original Setup CD-ROM.  Select 'r' at the first screen to start repair. I have tried the disk that came with the computer called 'Resource CD'  which has the Drivers on it, but there was none called 'Setup CD-ROM.  I have also used F8 function to go into Safe Mode and choose options there.  Everything I try comes back to the same error screen. Any help will be much appreciated.  Thanks, Sharon

fireberd · Answer

That file is probably on the Windows XP CD.  Run a 'Repair' on Windows XP and see if that fixes it.  You will have to boot with the Windows XP CD so you may have to temporarily set the CD drive as this first boot drive in the BIOS, so you can boot from the Windows XP CD.

fredha · Answer

This could be a corrupted file or a Ram problem. The memory diagnostics are on the Dell resource CD or you can get a floppy version fron Dell downloads. If your Ram checks out OK, you can find directions to repair the file Here:

http://www.jsiinc.com/SUBK/tip5400/rh5410.htm

nicotinefree · Answer

Thanks to both of you.

I set the CD-ROM to be the first start up, inserted the XP CD, and everything looked like it was doing a restore, then it stopped and asked the administrator password. I have never set one. Is there a way to get around this?

JRosenfeld · Answer

As it probably was never set, leave blank, click OK.

nicotinefree · Answer

I left blank, hit enter and it just asked for it again.  I tried 6 and 8 0's and that didn't work either.  All suggestions are sure welcome!

kmacp · Answer

instead of getting this message '1 file(s) expanded.' i get 'access is denied' is there anything else i can try before just reinstalling XP?

bboyd1956 · Answer

I do not know what is meant by the following in JSI tip 5410:   1. select the installation you wish to access   2. enter the administrator password   As a previous poster said, I get an 'access is denied' message   Your help wopuld be appreciated. As I try to work with the Dell Support they do not seem to be responding to my direct questions.   bboyd1956

Windows General

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