XP pro installation problem

[data switch]

I just built a new pc TODAY, and I finished putting together the parts, started to install the operating system.. (XP PRO)everything was working good... The HDD formatted (WD800JB) and it continued to the XP installation of the actual OS. After about 8% of the installation it started saying the files could not be transfered. It not the cd drives cause ive tried 3 different ones, the IDE cables are clean, and theres no other parts that i can come upwith that could be the problem. The only thing ive narrowed it down to is that the hard drive has been banged up or something along those lines. Any help would be GREATLY appreciated.

Thanks,
Matt


*AMD system with Asus A7N8X*

[Telexen]

Is it the same file or different ones every time.

Are you sure the RAM modules aren't in the incorrect slots?

[data switch]

I have not written down which files... ive only done this twice. But it usually stops around 8%. Im formatting again right now, i deleted the partition and COMPLETELY started over.

I have 1 stick of 512 MB ddr pc 3200 running at CL of 2.5

I have it in the far left slot, closest to the processor.

[Telexen]

Do you have any other DDR ram you could try in it?

[data switch]

Negative. I don't think its the ram though... i can get to the setup fine, format and all that.. dont u need ram for that?

[data switch]

Also, I've found it is inconsistent in the files that are corrupt, or not being transfered.

[Telexen]

The RAM doesn't have to be dead for it to be defective...I think it's either RAM or the motherboard

Windoze uses RAM much more intensely when loading than at almost any other time. So minor RAM errors which otherwise wouldn't be a problem can stop it in it's tracks when loading.

Is the CD scratched or damaged? Will it load on another PC OK?

If you serioulsy suspect the HDD. then download Ontrack's Data Advisor and run it (runs from floppy or bootable CD). That will tell you if there are any problem spots on your HDD, but I doubt that's the issue.

RAM is most likely culprit if it's in the middle of copying stuff, and not when it's detetcing hardware or anything.

See if you can try some other RAM just to install it.

Cheers
Mick

[golfcart]

I have seen heat cause the same exact thing. Make sure your processor fan is turning

[data switch]

I think its the ram, i ended up skipping all the files that were "corrupt" and then getting to the next step of the setup... it got past the scrolling bar and *WIndows XP Professional* screen and an error that flashed only one word i could read, "Memory" then a bunch of other bull junk.... so yea i'll try a new stick of ram tomorrow... Thanks for your help!

Matt