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How-To Geek Forums / Windows XP

Computer wont start

(5 posts)
  • Started 5 years ago by j9pickett
  • Latest reply from michael
  • Topic Viewed 1263 times

j9pickett
Posts: 1

I'm having a problem with my computer and i think it is hard drive related.If i unplug the hard drive and put in my recovery cd the cd will run but when i plug in my hard drive to reinstall windows it says no free space.If the hard drive is plugged in when i try to start up it just goes to a black screen with a dash on it.

Posted 5 years ago #
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michael
michael
Posts: 568

Try placing your hard drive, in a zip lock bag and put it in the freezer for the night.

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Mike

Posted 5 years ago #
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Scott
Scott
Posts: 5618

Good one Mike, that worked for me once and the next time I turned the PC on, it was to image the drive. Just in the nick of time.

Posted 5 years ago #
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Lighthouse
Lighthouse
Posts: 13598

When you say plug it in, are you trying to boot from a usb external drive?

Posted 5 years ago #
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michael
michael
Posts: 568

I think he means it's an internal one, and he plugs it back into the IDE Connector after the Recovery CD has gone in.

I reccommended that you freeze your hard drive, because it is possible that the arm has become stuck, thus freezing it will shrink it down a bit, and make the parts easier to move. You must place it in a ziplock bag, and ZIP IT otherwise moisture / ice / water will get into the drive, therefore killing it. Hope this helps.

P.S Thanks, Scott. :D

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Mike

Posted 5 years ago #
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