BIOS Probs

In the F10 BIOS config menu, if I select "Set Default and Exit ", will that complete wipe out everything on my hard drive? If so, is the info (on hard drive)recoverable?

 

No, this isn't going to wipe out anything on your hard drive. If your drive geometry had been set manually and the default configuration changes something like block addressing, you could wind up with a drive that can't be read until the geometry is changed back to its original setting but I doubt you will encounter this.

Is there a specific problem you are experiencing?

 

Yes, I got this message:
We apologize for the inconvenience, but Windows did not start successfully. A recent hardware or software change might have caused this.

If your computer stopped responding, restarted unexpectedly, or was automatically shut down to protect your files and folders, choose Last Known Good Configuration to revert to the most recent settings that worked.

If a previous startup attempt was interrupted due to a power failure or because the Power or Reset button was pressed, or if you aren't sure what caused the problem, choose Start Windows
Normally.

Safe Mode
Safe Mode with Networking
Safe Mode with Command Prompt

Last Known Good Configuration (your most recent settings that worked) Start Windows Normally

Use the up and down arrow keys to move the highlight to your choice.

Seconds until Windows starts: 30

The only thing I did to my computer prior to this happening was upload some photos so I could complete my work assignment. I attached the camera to the computer using a cable as usual and then disconnected when finished. I have done this many times on this PC. I tried every option on the menu when Windows didn't start (including Safe Mode) and nothing worked. Me and my crazy self went troubleshooting and found the F10 menu and selected "Set Defaults and Exit" and now I'm getting nothing but a black screen with a blinking cursor.

 

Can we assume this is after you clicked on whatever to enter Setup?

Please make no other changes until you answer and hear back from me once again.

 

Yes, Before the system showed the error message "Windows did not start successfully.." I pressed F10 on the Compaq screen and entered the set-up mode of the BIOS. This is what I learned from another website. I am currently using my laptop to get tips on how to fix my PC.
No prob, I will not touch anything until you respond. I've had enough of tinkering around without ample knowledge!

 

OK, you may have a fighting chance at a quick fix. Start your problem machine again while tapping that F10 key to re-enter your BIOS and look at the bottom of the page. There may be a menu there that indicates something like F7 to return to previous settings. If you see that (might indicate a different key than F7) then press whatever key is indicated. Do this for each and every page of your BIOS menu and then exit saving changes (usually F10) from the last page. You can skip the pages for security, optimum settings and default settings if they are shown.

Sorry but I'm not that familiar with Compaq's normal BIOS screens and most of the major mfg BIOS configurations are pretty restricted or crippled compared to high end boards that offer considerably more options for manual settings.

 

There is no "Return to previous settings" key.

 

You are going to have to consult your manual or find someone familiar with your motherboard. I don't want to do any guessing here.

 

I suggest you replace the CMOS battery.

In the BIOS there may be hard disk drive diagnostics, run those. The flashing cursor usually means the BIOS cannot find the boot information on the HDD.

Matt