KERNEL_DATA_INPAGE_ERROR: PC crashes

[zabitan]

This is my first time posting, so please forgive me if I'm new at this. I did a search about this error and didn't find anything (hopefully, I didn't miss something). For the past few days, my laptop has been crashing and I'd like to figure out why.

Compaq Presario 1800T
Microsoft Windows 2000 Professional
Version 5.0.2195 Service Pack 1 Build 2195

It seems to happen during downloading of large files. The computer will freeze and then I'll get a blue screen with

KERNEL_DATA_INPAGE_ERROR

Beginning dump of physical memory

(There are other codes, but mostly zeroes and such)

When I restart the computer, I get:

Operating system not found

After a few tries, everything restarts fine. My dilemma is how to keep this from happening. I have not added any new hardware or software in the past few weeks. This never happened before.

I do know that I need more RAM on this computer (I only have 130MB of RAM). Is it possible that when downloading large files (800MB or more), that it causes this crash? Or could something else be involved? I thought perhaps that it could be overheating (it does get pretty hot), but it happened recently after less than an hour.

Thank you for your time, anybody who reads this.

[CatScam]

I have seen this twice before & the problems were different both times.
The first time it was the OS & a re-install fixed it. The second time on
a different computer what was causing it was bad ram. But heat can do
strange things as well. Sorry for being so vague, but it’s not always one
thing.

Good luck

[zabitan]

Thanks. I am further investigating the problem. Currently, I am backing up any files that are precious to me and I will probably rewrite the hard drive (and get more RAM). One question though: can I reinstall Windows 2000 without erasing anything else on my hard drive? A friend of mine suggested I try that first.

[saoirse]

The first post here is the exact problem I am currently having, except mine is on Windows XP Pro. Please if anyone can tell me what I can do to fix this problem and not lose any files I would be very appreciative.

Thank you very much.

[beetz12]

Originally posted by zabitan
One question though: can I reinstall Windows 2000 without erasing anything else on my hard drive? A friend of mine suggested I try that first.

If you have a recovery CD came with your comp that contains Windows 2000, you will be able to do a non-destructive restore, which will still allow you to keep your files. Otherwise, if you're installing from a store-bought CD, or any other form of Windows 2000, you will have to lose everything on your HD.

[saoirse]

Does that comment apply to Windows XP Pro as well?

I bought mine a year after I had my computer, so it's a store bought copy. If I boot from it tonight, are you saying I will lose my info?