Can't install O/S

ChoaticWhisper · 03-29-2003, 10:21 PM

What could be causing this, Harddrive dying?
I tried installing Windows ME Full version: Files will not copy or alot of errors pop up during install.
Tried Installing Windows XP Upgrade: Files fail to copy, and setup can't finish.
Tried Linux Mandrake 8.2 Setup it freezing and I cant change to the kernel msg screen to see when its freezing.

Ive tried installing all of them from a normal cdrom and a cd/DVD rom.
I have formatted with different programs and ran scandisk and some other programs. I dont really want to lose one of my partitions but if I must, Its not a big problem.

I cant download a new linux version, So its either 8.2 or 7.1.
I havent changed or added any hardware.

I will start removing hardware one by one and installing while waiting for response.

Thanks.

squeech · 03-29-2003, 10:31 PM

This problem usually means you've got RAM chip issues. The files aren't able to make it from the CD through memory to the HDD. Chances are your HDD is fine. You should download memtest (if you don't already have it) and check the sticks, or just start pulling them if you have replacements.

This is especially true if it freezes in the same place every time. That refers to a certain block on the RAM chip! Either way, I would start there!

Hope this helps!

Richard Cranium · 03-29-2003, 10:59 PM

Also, try doing a fdisk and start from square one, then format and try again.

ChoaticWhisper · 03-29-2003, 11:03 PM

Thanks squeech, Memory was correct. A stick of PNY 256mb pulled it out and installed with out a problem. Didnt even boot in my moms computer. I have not had any problems with it until I tried to install with it in the computer, Is it safe to stick it in after the install is finished, or should I try to return it? Well I guess 380 something mb of Ram is enough for awhile.

jmebonner · 03-29-2003, 11:22 PM

In my case, it varies, I've had it work after the install, and sometimes not. It might also be the slot and not the RAM itself.

squeech · 03-30-2003, 10:06 AM

Often it WILL work after the install is finished, however you could be setting yourself up for later memory related crashes if you continue to use the stick and it truly has bad blocks.

I agree with jmebonner, it COULD also be the slot that's causing the trouble, but in your case it sounds like the stick.

tonyromen · 03-30-2003, 10:13 AM

This must be a pretty common problem because I had the same problem when rebuilding my box.

-t

SPEEDO · 03-30-2003, 11:06 AM

Try wiping the hard drive first! If it's a Maxtor download PowerMax here if not go to the manufacturers website and download their utility............

Beemer · 03-30-2003, 11:41 AM

Does PowerMax work on all drives over 500MB's?

Cheers!

SPEEDO · 03-30-2003, 12:52 PM

I have only used PowerMax for Maxtor hard drives. WD makes a utility for there drive as does IBM. Not sure about other brands because I have never done this with any others, But I imagine they would have some sort of program also.