Windows 2000 Rebooting Before Entering

[superred]

Hello all,

I wonder if anyone could shed some light on my current home PC problem.
Every time I try to go into Windows 2000 the machine reboots itself just before it reaches the desktop.
I am running SP3.
I have not changed the graphic drivers and it has always worked with them before.
This has only starting happening over the last week, the machine was totally efficient prior to this.
Any quick fixes or will I be able to boot off the W2k CD and repair?

 

[Accessdabbler]

Sounds like a power problem.

First, how many devices are using power on your wall circuit? HP used to suggest that you turn on the printer, wait, then turn on your computer to avoid too much drain on the circuit.

Next, you need to be suspicious about your power supply. How old is it? Have you recently added new hardware? The power supply may be failing or you may have too many devices needing power at startup. Nowadays, most people should have a 300W power supply.

 

[wolluf]

Have you tried safe mode & 'last known good'? (press F8 to get into menu for these)

You could try a repair - but without knowing what's causing problem, it may make no difference (it may repair your installation too, of course).

No recent hardware/software changes? Recent major crash/virus?

 

[superred]

AccessDabbler, you may have hit the nail on the head with this.
I have recently installed a APC UPS to run my PC from, the reason for this is the area I live in.
There are quite frequent short power cuts in the area and I managed to obtain a UPS from work in case of a cut.
My power supply is 230 or 240v

Woolluf I have entering "Safe Mode" and "Last Known" but the same reboot results before entering.

Should I try removing the UPS completely and going back to the direct wall plugging method?
Failing that a new PSU might be beneficial?

Your comments are appreciated, many thanks for your input thus far

 

[Accessdabbler]

Does your UPS provide "Line Conditioning"?

Cheaper UPS devices only kick in when the power drops substantially. The more expensive ones deliver power to your computer off the battery continuously giving you "pure" power.

I still think your power supply is the problem. You can test it with a voltmeter. You should get readings of 12V, 5V and 3.3V. I'll see if I can find a website with instructions on how to do this.

 

[Cadwalader]

boot virus.

I had the same thing. I fixed it by cleaning the /mbr and starting with a start disk from a windows98 machine. I ran Norton, and guess what? It found a stealth boot virus.


Power could be your problem, but I wouldn't stick a volt meter in a running PC. If you suspect power trouble, check the feed to the box, and watch it (you can do this from any functional power outlet in your dwelling, if you have dirty power, it'll show up all over the place). I don't think dirty power is causing your problem. The UPS could be cutting the power down on it's way to the box. That would cause a restart unless your BIOS is set to "stay off" after a power outage--in which case it would stay off and not restart. Check the power going to the box if you have enough voltage, then check it with a load (a fan or vaccuum cleaner would be better).

Just a thought.... Hope I was of some help...
--OR--
Thanks for the help...
--Rich