Computer Hope

Microsoft => Microsoft Windows => Windows XP => Topic started by: handoc313 on December 30, 2007, 04:39:46 PM

Title: Device Manager contents suddenly gone missing
Post by: handoc313 on December 30, 2007, 04:39:46 PM

I have a Dell 9300 Inspiron with Windows XP SP2; sometime recently I attempted to check a driver in the Device Manager and found it empty.  Have searched for possible causes and fixes for Empty Device Manager with no luck.  Specifically, no Apropos bug found; also, Plug and Play automatic detection is checked.  It may be a coincidence but at about the same time the "Safely Remove Hardware" icon went missing from the taskbar.   System Restore has NEVER worked on this computer, and I understand that this may be because a quarantined malware file had been removed at some time in the past.  Ugh.  Any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.  Many thanks!

Title: Re: Device Manager contents suddenly gone missing
Post by: patio on December 30, 2007, 05:50:46 PM

Travel to Dell's site and enter your service tag #...
DLoad and re-install the listed drivers and re-boot and see if the condition improves.
Afterwards re-run all your malware scans and if there are still issues visit our Virus and Spyware section and follow the instructions for posting your logs.

Title: Re: Device Manager contents suddenly gone missing
Post by: Broni on December 31, 2007, 11:19:40 AM

Try here:
http://www.kellys-korner-xp.com/xp_tweaks.htm
#107 - right pane (Restore the Device Manager)