Black screen of death help needed!

[Dreamweaver]

Longtime lurker and now I need some help.

I have 2 pcs hooked to a home network to a cable modem. One has win 98se and the other Win xp.

Two nights ago they were both shut down completely, they usually are always on. This was intentional as we were re-arranging things. None of the connectors were removed or unplugged from either machine.

Upon new startup they both boot into the black screen with the blinking cursor! BOTH of them....

What's up with this? Im totally confused.

 

[spyordie007]

What's the hardware they are running?

Software-wise about the only thing coming to mind right now would be if they both caught some virus that wipes the MBR. Can you get the XP machine into the recovery console using the CD?

I'd also verify that you've got proper power supplied to these machines.

 

[Tarrant64]

I get that a lot when I unplug my system and move it. Don't know why. After a few boot ups it finally starts. Give it a few tries?

 

[MrChad]

Sounds like you have poor power supplies. Do you know the make / model of them?

 

[Dreamweaver]

At work right now, Ill check a few of those things when I get home. Odd that it happened to both of them.

 

[spyordie007]

Originally posted by: Dreamweaver
At work right now, Ill check a few of those things when I get home. Odd that it happened to both of them.

Perhaps they are on a malfunctioning power strip. Or your in-home wiring is providing inadequate voltage...

Just some thoughts.