NTLDR missing/disk read error on boot...help please???

[Vader004]

Hello all...I surely hope someone can help!!

First, I have examined the forums somewhat and found some similar posts, but none w/ my exact problem, so sorry if I'm repeating or anything.

Now, my system specs:

Windows XP Home edition
Intel DBG850 mobo
1.7ghz P4 processor
384mb pc800 rdram(2 sticks at 128mb and 2 at 64 mb)
SBLive plat.
Geforce 3 Ti200
1 60gb hdd(Master)(IBM deskstar)
1 30 gb hdd(Slave)(seagate barracuda)
Plextor Plexwriter 16/10/40
56Xcdrom (generic)
1.44 floppy(generic)

the master hdd is general duty(OS, and all misc. programs) and the slave drive is reserved strictly for games.

My problem:

On boot, I am getting either of the following errors:

Disk read error press ctrl/alt/del to reboot

NTLDR missing press ctrl/alt/del to reboot

This does not happen w/ any consistancy however...also, I have just reformatted my system to try and fix this problem, so I am at a total loss.(I was due for a reformat anyway, so no sweat there)

My problem before the reformat:

Usually, I get the disk read error first, then attempt to reboot which leads to the NTLDR error. From there it's rinse and repeat w/ no success. I have found a temporary fix for the problem which consists of booting my computer from my XPcd, going to windows setup, agreeing to the liscense agreement and then exiting. The computer will then boot normally for a random period of time(anywhere from one day to one month before the problem resurfaces).

My problem after the reformat:

Same as above, but next afternoon after the reformat process....
How could I be having the same problem after a fresh XP install??
BTW full format of both drives...not the quick format. Any ideas or input will be MOST graciously appreciated!!

Also, let me know if more info is required.
Thanx!!!!

[meese]

Not sure if this will help but here it is: http://x220.minasi.com/forum/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=4762

[MewsicLovr]

Vader-

How old is your master drive? It sounds like it might be nearing the end of its life...

[Vader004]

Originally posted by MewsicLovr
Vader-

How old is your master drive? It sounds like it might be nearing the end of its life...

Master and slave are both 2 years old as of this past June...still under warranty fortunately. I'm just hoping that it's not an OS problem, because This system was built by Alienware and was originally shipped w/ Windoes ME. I installed XP myself, which voided my OS warranty. It was either I install the new OS or ship the rig back to Alienware for them to install it and make a new recovery CD.

Actually...I think the HDD crapping out would be best in the long run, because I'll get a new one under the warranty.