Computer hangs on startup

[capt775]

I have a Gateway desktop w/winXP. Have never had any probs until now.

When turned on, the Windows logo w/black background comes up, then it goes to the black screen w/white writing that wants to know how I want to start windows. Ex.  "safe mode", "start windows normally". But the computer hangs. It says to scroll up or down w/arrow keys, but nothing works.

I tried a search but nothing. My son uses this for homework, I need help and I'm not real good with the mechanics of computers. Any help would be greatly apprieciated.

[tommy gusack]

might be your Ata controller card or read this:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/261590

[elxr06]

might be your Ata controller card or read this:

http://support.microsoft.com/kb/261590

Yes, that might be the problem ... however ...

Try using system restore first, which will let you know if it is any hardware problem...

Instructions here: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/306084

If that not working, then it probably is ATA controller card problem or the problem listed at http://support.microsoft.com/kb/261590

Good Luck.

[capt775]

Ok, I "think" I got it going again.

I kept tapping F8 on startup and got it going in safe mode.

I didn't make any changes, just let it boot and load Windows.

Then did a restart in normal and seems to working now. I'll see.

[ale52]

Might be a good idea to create a system restore point once it's up and running again.  Just a little extra security in case of future failures.

Alan <>< 

[elxr06]

Ok, I "think" I got it going again.

I kept tapping F8 on startup and got it going in safe mode.

I didn't make any changes, just let it boot and load Windows.

Then did a restart in normal and seems to working now. I'll see.

Ok great. If you can get into windows and use computer, you're set. If you get into windows ok and you find some problems within windows, then use restore point back to the first available point for which no problem existed.