Reinstalling XP in a Compaq Laptop

[Jeoff]

Hi,
I have been using my presario for the longest time and am now at the point
of wanting to wipe all the old data off the the laptop and do a clean install
using my xp disc, but problem is this computer does not stay on long enough
for me to boot using the disc as it shuts off as its tried to start the
disc.. This comptuer has always been this way for the past few months hence
the need to reformat the computer if this may be because of a virus.
everytime it gets busy the power trips and shuts off automatically lke the
power has been cut of.. I need help..

 

[Malke]

Hi,
I have been using my presario for the longest time and am now at the point
of wanting to wipe all the old data off the the laptop and do a clean install
using my xp disc, but problem is this computer does not stay on long enough
for me to boot using the disc as it shuts off as its tried to start the
disc.. This comptuer has always been this way for the past few months hence
the need to reformat the computer if this may be because of a virus.
everytime it gets busy the power trips and shuts off automatically lke the
power has been cut of.. I need help..

If the computer doesn't stay on long enough to boot to the recovery
disk, your problems are hardware-related and not software-related (virus
would be software).

Either call HP tech support for repair/replacement under your warranty
or have a qualified computer professional give you a diagnosis.


Malke

 

[Niniel]

Maybe it's the power supply.
I have a similar problem with an HP Pavilion z 5000. The power plug on the
motherboard can come lose after a while, or the board may actually crack
around the plug (took about 3 years in my case), and the computer simply
won't get any power anymore.
You can a) talk to HP support and see if they still offer repair services
for your machine. Beware that their idea of a repair appears to be a
motherboard replacement, which will cost you about 320 USD (shipping
included). Or b) you can have the box repaired. You can find several place on
the internet that will do that. It'll cost around 130 USD with shipping.
Of course if it's a different problem, ie not the power plug, they may not
be able to help you or charge more.
Also, such a repair may not succeed.
For me, it worked fine at first, but now the symptoms are back. I can still
use the computer, but I can't move it anymore, or I'll lose power.
The next step will be either a soldering kit or a motherboard replacement.

Depending on your financial situation, it may be best to get a new computer.
You can get fairly decent ones for about 400 - 500 USD these days (for
general use, internet, etc).

Good luck.

 

[Jeoff]

I was afraid you were going to say that, but this laptop is due for a
replacement anyway. So getting a replacement would be my next step. Thanks
guys.. I appreciate it.