Thanks quickdraw. I'm going to let system repair run to a conclusion as think that might let me get to a dos prompt and i can look at the partitions as per the 3 repair link. I don't seem to have created any factory recovery discs so will resort to a clean install if all else fails. Thanks for the tips. Mike
You're very welcome.
At this stage I'd say you're looking at a clean install, but it does make sense to let the system repair run its course.
If a startup repair and an attempted clean install don't do the job it'll be time to consider whether you need a new hard drive. Is your computer still covered by a Sony warranty?
Oh dear. Tried to do a clean install and found it crashed with error 0x80070002 "windows cannot install etc". Heard quite bit of grating and one peep. When I tried again the "where do you want to install windows" box is blank i.e no partitions showing. It says "no drives found click load drivers to provide mass storage information" but where do I find a driver for the HD? Does this mean the HD has failed, despite the start-up repair report saying it was fine? Anything i can do to check the HD?
Rebooted and trying an intall from a microsoft boxed disc instead of the boot disc I made from the Vaio. At least the partitions have reappeared in the installation process. Waiting to see if it crashes again as currently expanding files.
Failed miserably with lots of horrible noises. Have ordered a new HDD as think it has had it's chips.
And how she has come home and admitted to dropping it at school yesterday!!!
Now she tells you! It would have saved you a lot of bother if you'd been told yesterday.
Post back if you need further help with fitting the new hard drive.
Quote