Random Computer Error

[Mike3504v]

Hello everyone!
My parents have an old all-in-one computer that runs Windows Vista. I just tried to start it up but it says it detected a software or hardware change. No matter what option I pick (start normally or repair) it either loops or just sits idly on a black screen.
Would anyone have any tips on how to fix this? The computer never came with a bootable disk either.

 

[TerryNet]

Even if you get this working Vista won't be generally useful, so unless you have a specific need for Vista or Windows I suggest trying some Linux distributions (e.g., Lubuntu, Puppy) and install one that you like and works with that computer.

 

[Mike3504v]

With a lack of Vista support, I understand this. Honestly I'm just aiming to at least pull the files out of the computer as it is on its last legs so to speak.

 

[flavallee]

If it has the 64-bit version of Windows Vista SP2 and you have the installation disc for it, this guide will be very helpful.

https://forums.techguy.org/threads/updated-steps-for-installing-updating-windows-vista-sp2.1224605/

 

[Mike3504v]

If it has the 64-bit version of Windows Vista SP2 and you have the installation disc for it, this guide will be very helpful.

https://forums.techguy.org/threads/updated-steps-for-installing-updating-windows-vista-sp2.1224605/

Unfortunately the device never came with a windows install disk. Would you happen to know if there is a way to download a repair tool that can be hooked up to do a USB boot. Either that or someway to just salvage the data off the hard drive at least.

 

[flavallee]

Unfortunately the device never came with a windows install disk.

What is the brand name and model name and model number and serial number of that all-in-one?
What is the exact Windows version on its Certificate-Of-Authenticity sticker?

Would you happen to know if there is a way to download a repair tool that can be hooked up to do a USB boot. Either that or someway to just salvage the data off the hard drive at least.

I have no experience in doing either, so someone else will need to address it.

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[Mike3504v]

What is the brand name and model name and model number and serial number of that all-in-one?
What is the exact Windows version on its Certificate-Of-Authenticity sticker?

I have no experience in doing either, so someone else will need to address it.

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The computer is a bit of a dinosaur but here it is.

Sony Vaio All-in-one PC
Model number: PCG-2F2L
Serial Number: VGC-JS160J
Windows Vista Home Premium OEMAct

That is the information I have been able to find on the stickers. Forgive me if the serial or model numbers are flipped Im never sure in which one is which. Though I'm sure they're both correct.

 

[flavallee]

Here is the support site for the Sony VAIO VGC-JS160J Desktop PC.
https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/desktop-pc-vgc-series/vgc-js160j

According to this support site article, Sony no longer provides a recovery disc kit for that desktop because it originally came with a Windows operating system that's older than Windows 7 (i.e. Windows Vista).
https://www.sony.com/electronics/support/desktop-pc-vgc-series/vgc-js160j/articles/00029981

According to the support site "Downloads" section, Sony no longer provides Windows Vista drivers for that desktop's devices.
https://www.sony.com/electronics/su...ownloads?operating-system=windows_vista_older

Depending on what hardware is in that desktop, and depending on how much computer knowledge you have and what ability you have to obtain what you need, doing a clean install of Windows 7 Home Premium SP1 64-bit in it might be a much better option.

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[TerryNet]

Either that or someway to just salvage the data off the hard drive at least.

I suggest trying some Linux distributions (e.g., Lubuntu, Puppy). Boot and run as a "Live CD" (meaning that you do not install, just run it from the boot CD, DVD or USB flash drive).