Ntoskrnl.exe error after 64 bit Windows 7 install

[Wtgamerz]

I bought Windows Home Premium this weekend, looking to upgrade from XP. I went through the installation steps and installed Windows 7 64 bit on my system. However, after the initial reboot when I saw the desktop and installed a few things, the computer gives me the message:

Windows cannot continue because the following file is missing or corrupt
<Windows root>\system32\ntoskrnl.exe

Replace or reinstall the file to continue.

When I leave the Windows 7 disk in the drive, the system boots up just fine to the desktop, but without the disk, I get this error.

I have tried searching the internet, but I have found no solution, and I am hoping the 7 forums can help me.

I have also tried to boot to the repair function of the 7 disk, but it finds no errors when I try the repair option. I have also tried installing the 32 bit version on my computer, and it gives me the same message.

Any help is greatly appreciated!

Core 2 Duo @ 2.4mhz
2gb Ram
ati radeon hd 4890
Soundblaster x-fi
3 hard drives (master is 1tb) Hard drives are in a raid format, the other two are storage space.
nvidia nforce 650 sli motherboard.

 

[gregrocker]

This issue can be due to failing hardware or corrupted boot.ini file.

Test your memory. Test HD with maker's full diagnostics/repair CD scan: Hard Drive Diagnostics Tools and Utilities (Storage) - TACKtech Corp.

See what happens if you try to run a http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/3413-repair-install.html?ltr=R

Next, zero the HD using DBAN, or the HD repair CD, then try the install again to eliminate infection as cause.