Windows install failed, can't repair

So my computer went from running perfectly fine to barely functional in a day. So I decided to reformat and reinstall. The plan was a complete reset. Factory defaults. So I backed up my stuff. Loaded up the install disk, formatted both my drives, combined some partitions and installed windows. Now this was a mistake, because I wound up with two windows 7 installs (it's been a while since I last did this, I forgot the steps). But whatever, I'll load it up, remove the second install. But every time I try to load either windows copy I get the error:


Windows Boot Manager

Windows failed to start.

A recent hardware or software change might be the cause. To fix the problem:

1. Insert your Windows installation disc and restart your computer.

2. Choose your language settings, and then click "Next."

3. Click "Repair your computer."

If you do not have this disc, contact your system administrator or computer manufacturer for assistance

File: \Windows\system32\winload.exe

Status: 0xc000000f Info: The selected entry could not be loaded because the application is missing or corrupt

*sigh* alright lets repair. However Startup repair cannot repair either install automatically. So I did some research and was told to make a few command prompt calls to restore default windows boot files however, despite my keyboard working enough to get me to the startup disk, the command prompt won't accept any key presses. Also any restart fails to start back up, I have to completely shut down and boot up.

So where do I go from here? What steps should I follow?

Gator said:

Proceed with step one in the following turotial. Keep in mind, only step 1 is necessary. If you wish to move on to further steps, you can but its not mandatory)
SSD / HDD : Optimize for Windows Reinstallation

I can't do step one, I can't boot windows to get to command prompt there and the command prompt in system recovery doesn't accept any key input.

EDIT: It seems my keyboard isn't working at all as I selected load drivers and got the windows dialog, and I can't type at all there. I'm using a wireless keyboard and I don't own a wired keyboard. Do I have to get my hands on one?

Gator said:

TenTonApe said:

Gator said:

Proceed with step one in the following turotial. Keep in mind, only step 1 is necessary. If you wish to move on to further steps, you can but its not mandatory)
SSD / HDD : Optimize for Windows Reinstallation

I can't do step one, I can't boot windows to get to command prompt there and the command prompt in system recovery doesn't accept any key input. Edit it seems my keyboard isn't working at all as I selected load drivers and got the windows dialog, and I can't type at all there. I'm using a wireless keyboard and I don't own a wired keyboard. Do I have to get my hands on one?

Yes I would say get a keyboard that you know works.

Alright, I'll have to go buy a wired keyboard. Give me an hour or two.

Gator said:

TenTonApe said:

Gator said:

Yes I would say get a keyboard that you know works.

Alright, I'll have to go buy a wired keyboard. Give me an hour or two.

Make sure you read my last post, I updated it after you quoted me. There is a link that will help.

I can get into my BIOS and I've booted to the disk from it, but I can't use my keyboard there. Can I clear my drive through my BIOS?

Gator said:

TenTonApe said:

Gator said:

Make sure you read my last post, I updated it after you quoted me. There is a link that will help.

I can get into my BIOS and I've booted to the disk from it, but I can't use my keyboard there. Can I clear my drive through my BIOS?

No its best to do that with your disc. Get a known good corded keyboard and try that.

I'm heading out soon to buy one. USB or PS2?