Here is my situation...I have a re-occuring "missing hal.dll error" that has caused me to re-install XP on multiple ocassions (each time I would do a low level format on the HD, to eliminate possible virus issues). I have tried most of the common "fixes", but none have worked for me. I have a 40GB drive that is dedicated to my OS and programs (I made this move after previous instances of this problem). When this occured before, I could get by the problem by leaving the install disk in the CD ROM (I never understood why this worked), but this time this does not work. I have another HD that holds my data, is it possible that some kind of worm is sitting on this drive and infecting the dedicated HD?)
p.s. The OS disk that I have is an XP Home Edition Compaq disk, so perhaps it is not a FULL version? Also, my 40GB drive has an NTFS file system (perhaps I need to change this before the next install?).
Right before the latest install, I took the computer to a local tech shop and all I got was a bad RAM diagnosis (which I replaced - both sticks matching RAM), then I reinstalled. As I thought it might be being caused by a hardware issue...on this latest re-installed, I started only with the fundamental hardware, so as to isolate any possible hardware conflicts. One by one I added my PCI cards. The install appeared stable, so I went throught the pain of having to call Miscrosoft and explain why I was again re-installing their wonderful product...I know they must think that I am doing multiple systems installs). The latest install had no problems for over 2 months, then two days ago...guess what? "missing hal.dll error"!!!
I am so frustrated that I am thinking about going out an purchasing Windows 2000 or XP Professional, as I just don't have any confidence in the disk that I have (I really don't want to give MS anymore money, but I simply want a stable OS install).
Would 2000 or XP Professional be better or should I consider the hardware again? If it is the hardware, why would it run fine for 2 month, then decide to die?
While I would like to repair this install, I am most concerned with not having to do this every couple of months? With this goal in mind...any and all advise would be appreciated, THANKS.
p.s. The OS disk that I have is an XP Home Edition Compaq disk, so perhaps it is not a FULL version? Also, my 40GB drive has an NTFS file system (perhaps I need to change this before the next install?).
Right before the latest install, I took the computer to a local tech shop and all I got was a bad RAM diagnosis (which I replaced - both sticks matching RAM), then I reinstalled. As I thought it might be being caused by a hardware issue...on this latest re-installed, I started only with the fundamental hardware, so as to isolate any possible hardware conflicts. One by one I added my PCI cards. The install appeared stable, so I went throught the pain of having to call Miscrosoft and explain why I was again re-installing their wonderful product...I know they must think that I am doing multiple systems installs). The latest install had no problems for over 2 months, then two days ago...guess what? "missing hal.dll error"!!!
I am so frustrated that I am thinking about going out an purchasing Windows 2000 or XP Professional, as I just don't have any confidence in the disk that I have (I really don't want to give MS anymore money, but I simply want a stable OS install).
Would 2000 or XP Professional be better or should I consider the hardware again? If it is the hardware, why would it run fine for 2 month, then decide to die?
While I would like to repair this install, I am most concerned with not having to do this every couple of months? With this goal in mind...any and all advise would be appreciated, THANKS.