Can't boot past Windows Error Recovery

[a_lexsmith]

Hi Computerhope angels

I'm Running Vista on Dell Inspiron 1525.

After an attempt to update drivers and subsequently a couple of BSODs, it's currently booting into Windows Error Recovery.

All options fail - Safe Mode, Last Successful Configuration, Normal. The HDD light and screen both go blank. Last successful Configuration worked once, but not since.

I have the Vista Reinstallation disk but it doesn't autorun, so unable to boot from that.

Can you please help me to startup again?

Many thanks
Alex

[Geek-9pm]

Have  you never don a Windows installation? Vista or other?

It is not auto run. It must boot right after the computer does a quick memory and device test. The option to boot from DVD has to be on and the DVD has to b e in the PC at the beginning of the power on step.

http://pcsupport.about.com/od/operatingsystems/tp/install-windows-vista.htm

My recommendation is to NOT format the drive, but try to repair the system.

Windows Vista Startup Repair
A Windows Vista Startup Repair isn't technically a way to install Windows Vista, but it resembles a "reinstallation" enough that it's worth a mention here.
In Windows XP, there was a process called a "repair install" which was essentially a way to overwrite all the important parts of Windows XP with files from the installation disc.
A Windows Vista Startup Repair is similar, but a bit smarter. Instead of blindly overwriting files, it checks for issues first and then repairs only what's needed.
Many a Windows Vista start-up issue can be fixed automatically with the Startup Repair tool, so please be sure to run this before trying something more destructive like a Windows Vista clean install.

Does this help any?

[a_lexsmith]

Thanks for replying Geek9pm.

I've reinstalled Vista before. The Vista Reinstallation dvd is in the dvd drive on powerup, but I suspect the setting to boot from dvd it isn't on - and I can't get past Windows Error Recovery to change that setting. It feels like a Catch22...

Is there any other way to get the Reinstallation dvd to boot? Once I can do that, the Repair option is my next step.

Many thanks
Alex

[a_lexsmith]

Just to clarify, the sequence of events is as follows:

- Insert Vista Reinstallation dvd
- Power up
- Dvd drive is briefly active but doesn't boot
- Windows Error Recovery Screen appears (attached)
- Have tried all Windows startup 'Other Options' - all result in blank screen and no further HDD or DVD activity.

But now I've found the solution! F12 key immediately on powerup gives option to boot from dvd - now into Repair option :-)