Re-Installing Windows XP

Hi,
I am having problems with my new XP Gateway computer. I had problems with my first one also and they sent me a new tower to replace the computer that had problems. Once again I have had problems with this Gateway XL-700. First the hard disk crashed and then they sent me a new one. Again I had to load all my software and settings and once again I got everything working like I like it, Internet, Networking, etc. Now my DVD player does not work even after them sending me a new DVD player. After extensive testing & re-installing, and un-installing, Gateway has decided it must be a corrupt Windows XP so tomorrow I have to call and they are going to walk me through re-installing my Windows XP and programs.

Now, my question is, since I have been through the chore of re-creating all my settings at least 3 times, is it possible that I can just save all the various settings, such as AOL, RoadRunner, Network, Printer, etc. instead of loading everything one at a time.

I have access to my husband's computer so I can just copy whatever it takes to the other computer.

I struggled each time I had to redo my settings and I just want to save time and frustration.

Thanks,

Jean

 

Jean

Depends on how they direct you to reinstall. A repair/overlay install is different from a full install. Difference is the repair/overlay install will try to keep the programs and settings.

Try to have them do this if they will.

To cover yourself, if you have the free disk space create a folder and call it "Previous XP install ".

Then use My Computer or Explorer and copy (not move) all folders on your drive c: into this folder. Some protected files will not copy but it should get enough for this purpose.

If they have you to format this will be erased. So if you have a drive D: then put it there.

If it is still there when they complete, and if your programs and settings are gone. Then use the Files and settings Wiz from Arie's post and browse to this folder and retrieve your items.

After you do retrieve them or if the installation keeps them then remove this folder because of the size it will be a waste of space.

Mike

 

Hi,

Thanks for the excellent suggestions.

He had to do the complete install so he wiped everything off the computer.

After Windows was installed, the DVD player still did not work. I also installed Windows Service Pack #1, but no luck with that either.

I have to call Gateway again tomorrow to see what the next step is.

I'm reloading my files and settings now.

Thanks for all the help.

Jean

 

Gezz.............

that's all they know..........

wipe it all away...........

and it still ain't fixed.........

Mike

 

Hi everyone,

Well the tech help called and said they exhausted all the solutions to my problems and were sending it up to the Engineering people to see if they can get my DVD to work.

I will have to wait until they contact me.

Thanks for all the excellent help with my original question.

Jean

 

Hi larsonjean:

Have you checked the physical connections to your dvd rom??
The ones inside your case.
Could be a loose cable or wire.

 

No, I didn't open the case and check the wires. I just don't want to open this big tower as I do not know what I am doing.

I will mention this to the tech when he calls tomorrow and let you know.

Jean