http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/library/ms793935.aspx

 

indicates 0x00000024 is failure to read NTFS file system, possibly corrupted file or bad sector on hard drive, or failing hard drive (I hope you have your data backed up...)

 

When you say you cannot run chkdsk, did you try running chkdsk /f /r from the recovery console on the XP CD?

 

Also run the Dell diagnostic hard drive test.

Thanks for the quick reply.  I have not tried to install/run the recovery console.   I did look over the instruction on THIS Microsoft web page, but not sure I'm savvy enough to be able to do this.  We've had the thought about just taking the lappy to a local repair shop and having them do it.  I'm guessing this is a somewhat common situation and someone "in the business" would probably be able to do this quickly and for a nominal fee...?  Oh, and yes, all the critical stuff was backed up, thank goodness.

I believe the correct command to run chkdsk from the Recovery Console C: prompt is:

 

chkdsk /p /r

 

chkdsk /f only works from inside Windows from start>run

 

Ron 

I was able to get to the command prompt by F12-ing out of the startup, getting a command prompt, and running chkdsk /r.  CheckDisk found and repaired errors and, after removing the Windows CD, was able to restart the computer and get to a normal WinXP desktop.

 

Thanks for all the help.

 

~Ed