Computer will not boot Windows

[Zensal]

Originally posted by: mechBgon
Troubleshooting starter

1. Overview of the problem
   Computer fails to load windows.
   
   
2. Full description of the problem and symptoms
   This computer was working fine for about 3 years. All of the sudden, it seemed to have random reboots, and now it can't load into Windows. It posts, brings up the Vista loading bar, then goes to a blank screen and sits there. No messages or anything.
   
   
   
3. Did it work normally at one time, or has the problem always existed?
   It worked normally for 3 years. There was no new software installed at the time of the problems AFAIK. It could have been a virus, but I don't think so.
   
   
   
4. Is the problem consistent and repeatable, or entirely random, or semi-random?
   It is repeatable. Happens every time I turn on the system.
   
   
   
5. I already tried these steps:
   I have run Memtest86 and SpinRite to check for memory/hard drive problems. Neither of them came up with anything.
   
   I tried to repair the Windows instillation using the disk. It seems like its working and is says it has problems, but fails to repair them.
   
   
   
6. My software:
   • Windows Vista Unknown Service Pack
   • McAfee
   • Windows Firewall
   
   
   
7. My hardware
   • Dell XPS 410
     
   • Dell
   • Core 2 Duo 6420
   • Nvidia ???
   • 2x1GB Hynix 667MHz
   • Dell
   • 1x320GB WD HD, 1xSATA DVD Drive
   
   
8. Other information that might be relevant
   (any other information that might be related to the problem)
   

 

[bruceb]

Since you already tested memory and hard drive, then swap out the BIOS Battery on the motherboard.
If that does not fix it, then suspect either the Power Supply, Video Card or a driver issue (either mobo chipset or video card)

 

[aGreenAgent]

How long have you let it sit there? I've had cases where it seemed like it was just hung, but ended up working after 45 minutes and then never had an issue afterwards. Vista sucks like that.

Also, (this is unlikely since it got to the Vista load, but it's worth a shot) make sure all your SATA cables are pushed in all the way on both ends.

Does this computer boot into safe mode? (Hit f8 before the windows load begins)

 

[Porter21]

I'm suspecting a bad power supply :/

Not exactly sure though. Have you tried running chkdsk on the hard drive?

 

[mpilchfamily]

He said he has ran Spinrite which is a hell of allot better then Chkdsk. If there was an issue with the HDD spinrite would have either fixed the problem or told him the drive was dead.

 

[Porter21]

sorry, skipped that part

 

[Zensal]

Wow, thanks for the responses.

Yeah, Spinrite has saved my butt twice. Great program, but expensive.

I was actually suspecting a software issue rather then hardware. Maybe corrupted drivers or something. I can't believe I forgot to check safe mode. I'll try that out first.

 

[Zensal]

Yeah, it boots into safe mode, so it's probably a driver issue, correct?

Anybody know an elegant way to find out which one? Or is the remove one at a time way best?

 

[bruceb]

Most likely video driver or a bad video card.

 

[Zensal]

Yup, bad video card.

Thanks for the help everyone.