Can't install OS on my PC, can on others.

MCleveland · 12 Dec 2010

I've been trying to reinstall Windows 7 on my PC every since I tried to install Ubuntu 10.04 on a separate HDD and it messed up my Windows 7 x64 on my first HDD. I thought maybe it was my Windows 7 disc so I got another one but still have the same problem. I tried installing Windows Vista and Windows XP after that with the same problem. So I tried a different HDD but it still wouldn't go. I took my Windows 7 disc and HDD to a different computer and it worked the first time. So now I'm assuming it's a hardware problem. I ran memtest with no errors found. I've tried different SATA cables with the same result. Oh, and Ubuntu never worked in the first place either. Also, my BIOS seems to load up a lot slower than it used to so I tried reflashing it with the same results. Can anyone give me any insight to what my problem could be? Thanks!

gregrocker · 12 Dec 2010

Unplug all other HD's, then wipe the target HD before install: SSD / HDD : Optimize for Windows Reinstallation

Clean Install with a Upgrade Windows 7 Version

After install plug back in the other HD's and boot via BIOS Boot Order or one-time BIOS boot menu key. This keeps the HDs independent to come and go as you please.

MCleveland · 13 Dec 2010

I followed the link you gave me precisely and still have the same result. I got all the way through the installation process and when it restarts for the last time, all I get is a blank screen with a blinking "_" which makes me further think it's a hardware problem. Is there another course of action I can take?

gregrocker · 13 Dec 2010

Try resetting the CMOS: Clear CMOS - 3 Ways to Clear the CMOS - Reset BIOS

In BIOS setup, check SATA controller setting. Try AHCI first, then IDE mode if necessary. Any others?

How many passes did you run memtest86 CD? Try 5-6 or overnight.

Test your HD's with maker's diag/repair full CD scan: Hard Drive Diagnostics Tools and Utilities (Storage) - TACKtech Corp. followed by Disk Check run from installer's Repair console Command Line.

Is it hanging during the phase where it installs drivers?

If so, see if install is far enough along you can access Device Manager to uninstall whichever driver might be hanging the install, likely display: Device Manager - Access During Windows 7 Installation

MCleveland · 13 Dec 2010

I reset the BIOS and am trying to install it in AHCI as I type. I'll let you know how that part works.

Memtest passed 1 test, I stopped it after that. If this doesn't work, I'll run Memtest tonight all night and see what happens.

It doesn't seem to hang during the driver installation phase, so I don't think that'd be it but if I get that far with no solution I'll give it a shot along with my HD diagnostics tool.

MCleveland · 13 Dec 2010

Resetting the CMOS and installing it as AHCI and IDE (my only two options) didn't help. I'm pretty convinced that this is the fault of my motherboard because both my HDDs and Windows 7 disc worked fine in another computer. I'm going to run Memtest tonight and if that doesn't find anything, I think I'm going to RMA my motherboard.

PwnFrnzy · 14 Dec 2010

Maybe it could be the DVD drive itself?

gregrocker · 14 Dec 2010

DVD drive is a possibility. Try installing using a USB flash stick. The easiest method is to install UltraISO trial version, on File tab Open ISO, on Bootable tab Write Disk Image, Format, Write. Boot under USB or HD's.

MCleveland · 14 Dec 2010

I just tried installing it through a USB with the same blinking "_" result. Also, memtest didn't give me any errors and it ran several times during the night.

gregrocker · 14 Dec 2010

Can you confirm you have wiped the HD with Diskpart "Clean All" from the tutorial given earlier?

Have you unplugged all other HD's and peripheral devices? Use a PS2 mouse and keyboard.

Try anther SATA port on mobo. Double-check all connections.