Setup freezes during install

CutTheGrass · 30 Aug 2010

Ok, I tried to install Windows 7 a while back, and it would freeze every time during 'expanding files' section.

I also run into similar problems when it comes to installing Vista. I've gotten Vista to install maybe 2 times and both times it ran fine for a little then it refused to boot (not sure where in the process anymore).

I checked the Windows Vista / 7 compatibility guide on Microsoft's page and everything i have SHOULD work, so I'm not thinking its hardware issues.

I read another post on these forums that had someone saying it worked when they swapped out the dvds when it froze. I don't believe its the disc either, because both Vista and 7 had no problems installing on other computers that i tested it on. Running a Virtualbox with 768mb RAM assigned to it installed flawlessly as well.

Why does my install keep freezing on the machine I plan to activate Windows with, but not on any other?

gregrocker · 30 Aug 2010

Where did you get Win7? Did you burn it yourself?

Since the same problem apparently happens with Vista install on the same machine (correct?) then I would test the hardware: run memtest86 CD scan 5-6 passes or overnight, then the HD maker's full diag/repair CD scan: Hard Drive Diagnostics Tools and Utilities (Storage) - TACKtech Corp.

Confirm you have the latest BIOS version update from the SUpport Downloads webpage for your model computer or mobo; if so, then reset the CMOS: Clear CMOS - 3 Ways to Clear the CMOS - Reset BIOS

If you are still running the multi-boot with Ubuntu then you likely have GRUB interference. You may need to wipe the Ubuntu partition of GRUB, install Win7, then reinstall Ubuntu last to use GRUB.

The best arrangement for a multi-boot is to install each OS on a separate HD while the others are unplugged, then boot via BIOS boot order or one-time BIOS boot menu key (F10 on eMachines). Even if you only separate the Ubuntu OS this way, it will avoid GRUB interference since it won't be needed.

Please post back a screenshot of your full Disk Mgmt drive map and listings.

CutTheGrass · 31 Aug 2010

My Linux installs are on a seperate hard drives. I don't like the idea of partitioning a hard drive for multiple OS's. Especially when it comes to messing with windows boot loaders and grub mixed. I got 3 hard drives for this course of action :)

BIOS is as up to date as far as i can tell. There isn't any updates on the eMachines website and the manufacturer of the mobo doesn't list any updates either, they only have their newer hardware so it looks like they stopped supporting it or something.

as for memtest, does it matter if i run a linux live cd to run it? i don't know if there's any difference between the version that comes with linux or the version that comes with windows. And what do you mean 5-6 passes or overnight?

Oh, Snipping tool didn't come out til Vista. Anyway, Arrangement isn't my issue. If i unplug the linux hard drive then it will boot XP with the normal windows boot loader.

I'll check out your suggestions, and post back an update.

gregrocker · 31 Aug 2010

Are you unplugging the other HD's when attempting to install Win7?

Wipe the HD first to overwrite any interfering code: SSD / HDD : Optimize for Windows Reinstallation

Where did you get Win7? Did you burn it yourself?

Memtest86 is most effective if it runs enough passes to stress test the RAM.

Please post back a screenshot of your full DIsk Mgmt drive map as you are running now: https://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials...en-forums.html

nokken · 31 Aug 2010

Disable Floppy Drive support in your BIOS if you aren't using one - That caused my Win 7 Setup to hang for 5 minutes or so. After disabling the floppy, setup was speedy.