Problem Installing OS on Presario (Major one!)

[machantu]

Hi everyone,

I have spent the past 2 days trying to clean install Win98 on my aunt's computer. It is a Compaq Presario 4506. Here's what I did

Run Win98 setup from CD Boot.
Formatted my entire C:\ in the Win 98 setup program.
Completed installation.

When I load Win 98 for the first time. It gives me this error saying

"Invalid VxD dybnamic link call to device number 3, service B.. windows configuration invalid.. " and the screen just goes blank after a while.

When I try safe mode, it says
"Himem sys done"

Then it goes on to tell me that Himem.sys not found in Windows directory. Then it stops

Tried WinXP, setup gave me this could not copy 'ntkrnl.exe' (I think)- Error 7

Tried Win2000, setup hangs at the end of the copying file stage.

Very cranky computer.. Can anyone help me? I told my aunt that I could fix it.. hope I don't have to disappoint her

Could it be that I must use the restore CD? I am not familiar with Compaq systems but I came across something about using restore CD somewhere on the web. I also read that it can be done without a restore CD. Please advise.


Thanks in advance.

 

[Buz2b]

I recently installed a new HD and memory on a Presario 5900Z for a friend. It was a PIA also. I ran the "restore CD" but it did not install all the drivers, so I had to "manually" find/download/install them. Then I deleted the miscellaneous Compaq BS from the drive. I would suggest using the restore CD if you must but be sure to write down make and model numbers of any hardware that will need drivers later; just in case. From what I saw on thier support forum, this is not a random occurance; it happens often.
The other suggestion I would have is not to use the Win98 CD to configure the drive. Use the "old fashioned" Win98 floppy boot disk to first run FDISK, then format the drive. That is generally the most fool-proof. Be sure and do the FDISK though.