Is reinstalling without formatting possible? 1

[mars19301]

As I posted earlier, something has gone astray in my win98 system so that I cannot open IE or any desktop foldes or Windows Explore. Fortunately I have alternative software (2xe and crazy browser) that gets the job done, but it's annoying at times. All else works on the system. Crazeee.

When these items don't open, the error isEXPLORER caused a general protection fault in module USER.EXE at 000a:00002730. I guess a win98 foundation file got screwed or perhaps the registry itself.

I fear formatting based on past experiences. Seems like you never get back ALL the drivers or files you need and I don't have time to deal with the resulting aggravation or fix.

So my question is can I reinstall without formatting? I just did a straight upgrade reinstall from my win98se cd without fixing anything. I looking for a method that would replace bad or missing files.

A second approach would be partition magic and put explore and IE on the new drive, but I don't believe that would work if current problem isn't fixed.

Ideas will be appreciated. Thanks.

Jim

 

[Crustyoldbloke]

Try going to RUN and typing in SFC. Do a scan for altered or corrupted files. You can "over install" and normally many things will be corrected by doing so. It's worth a try without much of a risk. Why doesn't DOS ever say 'EXCELLENT'?
Phil
If you diagree with the advice I give, please send an email with the word RESIGNATION as the subject.

 

[mars19301]

Thanks, Crusty, but no go. I ran sfc and it adjusted 3 dll's but had no affect on the problem. Back to the original question.

Jim

 

[grez]

Yes, you can reload Windows while running windows. You can copy the contents to your c drive as follows:

1)use a startup floppy to get to dos
2)once you get to the A:, type "c:", enter to get to the c prompt
3)type MD WIN98
4)type COPY D:\WIN98 C:\WIN98 (assuming your cd rom is D), this will copy the setup files
5)after the transfer is complete, go to the c prompt and type CD WIN98
6)type SETUP and windows will reload.

Yes, this will reload windows without formatting your disk. Although your files will not be affected, I would suggest you backup your important stuff first. I have found it is better to load windows 98 via DOS instead of while windows is open and running. Let me know how you make out if you wish (or any questions) at greznet@comcast.net.

 

[mars19301]

My need to reformat vaporized (thank goodness!). The problems disappeared or my normal desktop and right-mouse function reappeared after running sfc and defrag and turning on my pc this morning. Wish I knew why, other than it's Christmas and I deserve this present. Thanks for your time.

Jim

 

[Crustyoldbloke]

Thankyou James. Press any key... no, No, NO, NO!! Not THAT one!
Phil
Ave. Monete me si erro

 

[mikevel]

I realize this is an old message, but this EXACT problem just cropped up on me 3 days ago. All of the solutions mentioned did not help including reinstalling win98 as described.
Can anyone tell me what the User.exe file actually does? And from what module did it get installed? Maybe this info will help me pin down what caused the problem and then maybe what will resolve it.

Thanks in advance
Mike