Computer Got Zapped??

Hi All,

My daughter's Window 98SE computer has some problems. These occurred when the computer, not being operated but on cable and plugged in, encountered an electrical storm. I've been trying to help at a distance (telephone and e-mails) but so far nothing positive.

The computer is operable. Her e-mails to me look fine. The problems have to do with screen appearance. All desktop icons and graphics are enlarged. The background is mottled and the colors are not true (her description).

So far I asked her to boot into Safe Mode and then shut down and boot normally. No change. Since I suspect that the problem is more than icons I only asked that she determine if the ShelliconCache file was part of the Window folder, it is. I had her Restore Defaults from the Windows Explorer>Tools>Folder Options>to the View Tab screen, again no change on rebooting.

Obviously I need help and some words to point me in other directions. I'm currently using Windows XP Pro and its been a long time since using W98.

 

The video card drivers may need to be reinstalled.
There is something else to try first, as the video drivers could have been 'lost' in the registry due to loss of power.
Shut Down, choosing Restart in Dos Mode, then do this command at the prompt.
scanreg /restore
Have her use the arrow keys to pick a backup dated or timed before the outage, then press Enter. Then a reboot is required.

 

To change the graphics drivers, go to Control Panel > Display > Settings (tab) > Advanced (button) > Adapter (tab)...the drivers should be listed under the "Change" button. If the original drivers do not work, you may need to download and install a new set (or run the drivers CD that came with the graphics card or the computer).

Matt

 

TonyT, markp62, mattman

It is fixed.
We got lucky and the problems were not as severe as I first considered them to be. Although my daughter admits that she is not sure just what cured the problems, she went to the Display Properties Setting Tab and then by making adjustments, she was able to get back to a normal display.

I am going to send your responses to her so that she is aware of some of the more complex solutions needed to bring a computer back after being exposed to atmospheric electricity. The message: Protect the computer.

My daughter and I thank each of you for your interest and help.

 

Glad to hear she got it going, and thanks for posting the outcome of it all.