write protect error writing drive c

[bestdoc]

I have a machine which is giving the error message "write protect error writing drive c" in the DOS stage of startup in windows 98. It gives the options "abort" "retry" and "fail" if you fail it, it carries on OK. It just started all on it's own - no trigger. The disk is OK - have checked it several times in different PC's. The BIOS settings are correct for the drive. There are two hard drives - the other one is fine. I believe my only option is to reformat, as it doesn't appear to be a windows problem - it only happens in dos. Anyone any clues ???

 

[mscallisto]

Here's a start:

Scandisk of your c: drive.

If no luck there you could fdisk /mbr to lay down a new master boot record.

If no luck there you may want to check some recent threads regarding FAT problems.

much luck

 

[reghakr]

Are you using Norton Utilities or Partition Magic?

reghakr

 

[bestdoc]

Did the scandisk several times in different machines - was fine in all. Tried the fdisk /mbr and it came back with write protect error writing fixed disk.
Norton nor Partition magic have been used on the drive at all.

I'm gonna try and image the disk and try a different hard disk - will let you know what happens, unless of course someone finds an easier solution.

 

[bestdoc]

Ha - success. I tried another HD and it wouldn't write to that either. So I then got a BIOS update and it seems to have sorted it out. I guess it was a fault with that bios version.

Thanks for all help