Slow booting problems

[PCVirgin]

Once upon a time there was a working WIN98 desktop until I decided to install a network card to it.

Problem 1: The infamous "VFAT initialisation failed" error appeared after re-booting. I looked up 'all' the Tek-tips on the subject and none of them helped so I uninstalled the newtwork card.

Problem 2: Now on booting the PC takes about 5 minutes to complete the process. I went in to Safe Mode and the boot time is 'instant' so I changed the MSCONFIG to remove all checked boxes and the next boot was 'instant' too. As I add the app's back via MSCONFIG the boot plays up again.

Apparently if a network card is added it plays havoc with any USB connections.

Problem 3: If I try to get assistance via the Internet i can logon but cannot read any pages. I've checked the settings against another PC and they seem the same.

I have re-installed WIN98 to no avail. I've tried SCANREG/RESTORE to no avail. If anyone can sort out any of the 3 related issues it would save my sanity!

 

[etarhan]

If I remember correctly, your PC now remembers that there should be a network card somewhere, and it tries to locate it. Hence the slow booting.

I would reinstall everything afresh, possibly with the network card installed. Afresh means all traces of old installation erased. Maybe it's about time for a resurrection?

Good luck,
Engin

 

[PCVirgin]

...so even though I have uninstalled (removed) the card and 'removed' traces of it via the "System Devices" window the PC still thinks there's a Network card there?

However, once I reinstall the network card I'll get the VFAT initialisation error again. I've tried that.

Unless you saying uninstall EVERYTHING and then physically install the Network card again?

 

[Kocky]

Which drivers did you use for your network card ? Is your card connected to a DHCP server which tries to give it a IP number but you have set it to a static IP. If you have a static IP is it not conflicting with a other PC in the network ?

 

[Grenage]

Take a look at this if you havn't already:

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?kbid=139063

Under your network settings are any NiC related protocols/services still exist?

If you reboot in safe mode and then enter "System Devices" does your network card show up here now? If so delete it.

 

[PCVirgin]

Firstly Kocky, the PC is not connected to a server. I added the PCI card in order to try to network it to a laptop.

Secondly Grenage, yes I've looked at that link and tried the solution without success. Although I have not tried the maxfilecache solution.

I re-booted in Sae Mode and removed the reference to the network card in the "System Devices". I've even uninstalled the driver!

Should I remove all references to my devices in the "System Devices" window and let WIN98 discover them as it boots?

 

[Grenage]

Should I remove all references to my devices in the "System Devices" window and let WIN98 discover them as it boots?

I wouldn't do that, you may end up with more headaches.

 

[PCVirgin]

So does this mean if the VFAT things fails (again) I am stuck between a rock and a hardplace?

At the moment, I am damned if I add the network card and damned if I dont!

Plus if I check any of the boxes in MSCONFIG the machine takes forever to finish booting, how do I get around that?

 

[Grenage]

Do you have another Network card you can try (just for test purposes)?

 

[PCVirgin]

No. I purchased a "set" comprising of a wireless desktop PCI network card and a wireless PCMCIA card for the laptop.

Does the fact that the hardware is wireless make any difference?

 

[Grenage]

If you are at your wits end and your work is backed up, is a reformat/install feasible?

I have always found win9x to be a little quirky and that fresh installs are the quickest way to recovery (as annoying as it is).

 

[PCVirgin]

Will this allow me to add the PCI network card sucessfully or will I do all that "hoping" it will work?

I'd hate to reformat a 20gb hard disk and reinstall WIN98 only to find out I am back to square one!!!

By the way did I say I have already reinstalled WIN98 since the initial problem?

 

[Grenage]

Sorry I missed the part where you mentioned you have already re-installed.

To be honest I am struggling to come up with any useful advice at the moment, but I will of course have a think about it and let you know if anything crosses my mind.