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vista backup restore?

R

redls1

Golden Member
Every time I go to access the c: drive or d: drive an error comes up and explorer.exe restarts. I tried to use system restore to several different times but it fails everytime. Its an acer computer from compusa so I didnt get restore disks. Dummy me never did it when I first got the computer. I tried to use a program to recover any lost files etc.. on the drive and that didnt seem to help. Any ideas?
 
If you haven't made a backup you can't restore. If you've started using Vista's backup utility you will have one somewhere, but you can only do a full system restore with Vista Ultimate. It sounds like you need to try a repair install first and if that doesn't work backup your important data and reinstall.

To run a repair install insert the Vista DVD and reboot, wait for it to do it's thing (copying files etc) and follow instructions when prompted.

Get yourself some disk imaging software and image your root partition when the PC is working good, then you will always have an easy way to restore.
 
I dont have a dvd to restore anything from. The computer didnt come with one. I have several restore points to pick from but none go through. It always pulls an error. I dont have vista ultimate so I guess Im outta luck and will have to go buy vista home or use an older version of xp that I have.
 
If you bought the PC from an retailer and it came with Vista on it, it must have a DVD. If not call the retailer and get one cause they are supposed to supply you with the DVD. Regardless, if you have the sticker with the serial number on it, you can use any Vista installation media and use the key you own.
 
Yeah I have the cd key certificate on the back but was told some retailers are not sending the dvd to save money.They do a separate partition on the hard drive but I am having a problem with it so I am screwed.
 
Commercial PCs that don't come with a Recovery CD or DVD always have a "Recovery Partition" on the hard drive. You use it by hitting a special Key during the boot process. It will restore the hard drive to "as new", but it may overwrite any data you've put on your PC. Read your Owner's Manual about this.

If you need data files back, and if the hard drive is still semi-functional, then you'll need a software-based data recovery program or you'll need to call in a professional. GetDataBack is often recommended, and costs $80 for a license. I ASSUME it'll work fine with a Vista installation.

If the hard drive is "kaput", then you'll need a hard drive hardware-based data recovery. That is very pricey.

Once you get the data back, you can decide if the hard drive is usable. Run the hard drive maker's diagnostics tests. You should also immediately contact Acer and tell them you'd like a System Recovery disk for your PC. You MAY have to pay for it, and I strongly suggest you do so. If your PC originally came with Vista, I'd think it's still under warranty.....

Summary:
1) Call Acer Support and ask for a Recovery Disk
2) Get your data back
3) Test the hard drive
3) Re-install Vista and your data, either on the original drive or on a new one. If your PC is under warranty, then Acer would do this for you.
 
I can still access the hard drive, it doesnt always seem to lock up. Will try and call acer as its only 2 months old.Thanks for the info.
 
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