UNSOLVED
Windows ME will not start up
I can't get Windows ME in my dimension 4100 to start up. The windows intro. screen comes up on the monitor and then it just hangs there. If I hit the escape key it goes to a DOS looking screen and I get a message saying "Setup is trying to update configuration files.....". Then I get a message saying "Windows could not upgrade the file %1 from %2." And then that message repeats itself over and over.
I've tried starting in safe mode but the same thing happens.
This all started after doing a Norton antivirus live update and restarting the computer after downloading the updates. Symantec will not help me because I can't get my computer started.
592
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Posted July 16th, 2006 03:00
I've just had the same error message after installing an update to "Total Recorder. Problem is, I don't have a ME start up disc. So, what do I do? I tried booting into safe mode, but it wouldn't do it. I'm kind of frantic. I'm sending this from my laptop. Suggestions greatly appreciated.
peggy
592
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Posted July 16th, 2006 17:00
Me again! I found my ME reinstallation disc, but don't have a start up and don't know how to make it. My screen is filled with "Please wait while Setup updates your configuration files. This may take a few minutes. Then repeated four times "Windows could not upgrade the file %1 from %2"
Then, "Windows could not upgrade one or more system files before starting. Indows may not start or run properly. If WIndows fils to start, run SETUP again."
When I put in the Reinstallation disc, nothing happened. I tried hitting F2, but nothing happened there either. HELP!!
thanks, peggy
592
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Posted July 16th, 2006 17:00
Dumb question time! Since I can't get into the computer in question, can I download it to a CD on my laptop without screwing anything up? Thanks, Peggy592
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Posted July 16th, 2006 17:00
peggylenox,
The startup files need to be on a floppy diskette unless you are able to make the CD onto which you download them a bootable CD.
592
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Posted July 16th, 2006 17:00
Problem is, I don't have a floppy drive. Can't I just down load it on my laptop to the cd and then put that into the computer with the problem? thanks, peggy592
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Posted July 17th, 2006 19:00
Just wanted to report that all is well. After a VERY frustrating conversation with Dell, I called a local computer company, they came over and fixed it in less than an hour. Part of the problem was that I use a cordless keyboard, so couldn't get into safe mode or bios. Didn't know that! When we attached a corded keyboard, he was able to get in -- apparently the program had only downloaded partially. After deleting that and downloading it again, all is well. Hooray!
My frustrating Dell contact was that after I told them the problem with Windows ME, I was told that they would require a year's service contract at $8 per month for a total of $239, which means you pay for 29 months but only get service for 12. Oh well -- I was desperate for a solution. So, I signed up. They transfered me to the tech guy who then informed me that they no longer give support for ME -- I'd have to get a local person. That's ridiculous! So, I cancelled the service contract and, after wasting nearly an hour, called the local guy. Does Dell really think they can build customer support with that kind of behavior? My husband and I own 5 Dell computers. He says "never again, no more Dells" I love them, when they work, but when you need any kind of support, forget it these days.
End of rant.
I'm happy it's working!
peggy from lenox
jackshack
6447 Posts
592
0
Posted March 27th, 2006 02:00
I would try System Restore first. In order to get there, study the following from the Microsoft Knowledge Base:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/279736
If you cannot find a restore point that corrects your problem, you may have no choice but to reinstall Win ME.