Windows Vista Blank Control Panel and other problems

Hi guys,

I write from Spain so sorry for my English. I have Vista Ultimate 64 bits installed with service pack 2 (genuine) and last week power went off in my house and the computer reboot. It asked me for a hard drive check and I did it. Since that I am experiencing a few problems.

1. Blank control panel. I only can access the control panel in the classic view. In the default view is completely blank.

2. Access to folders is very slow. I open a folder and it is blank for 2-3 seconds and then all files appear.

3. Vista explorer opens folders always in new windows. I have checked the "view properties" and "open folders in the same window" is checked but it is not working. Vista always opens each folder in a new window.

4. Vista recognizes my HD-DVD/Bluray unit as a cd unit. When I insert a DVD or high definition disc it recognizes the label of the disc but I can't open it. When I double click on it it says something like "disk empty ". However, other programs like Nero or DVD Decrypter recognize the drive and I can make iso's and record normally.

5. I cannot run some programs like for example DVD Shrink. When I try to open it nothing happens.

I have tried with all antivirus and antispywares: BitDefender, Nod32, Kaspersky, AVG, Spysweeper, Antimalwarebytes,... All say my computer is completely clean.

I do not want to format and reinstall. I would appreciate your help.

Thanks a lot.

 

Have you tried System Restore (restore to a point before the power went off)?

Mitch

 

It does sound like the Service Pack failed. First and foremost, get that HDD checked for faults. Then try (like MitchellCooley said) to do a System Restore to prior to the attempt at the Service pack install. It may or may not work (chances are it will not).

The official word down on broken service packs installs is reinstall fresh. However I've seen some things out there that will fake your computer into thinking that there are no windows updates at all, so then you can reapply SP1, then SP2 in order. Hopefully the power wouldn't die on you this time. All in all you might try posting your question to the official Windows Vista Support Forum located here:
http://tinyurl.com/d5r9v3
It is supported by product specialists as well as engineers and support teams. They are usually pretty quick to respond.

 

Thanks for your answer and for MitchellColley's.

I cannot restore to a previous point because I have that service deactivated. I have checked my hard drive and it is ok, no errors. Now I have a new problem not listed before. When I have a folder in C: (like a game, for example) I cannot change its name or delete anything. When I try, nothing happens. I am going to try with the offficial forum.