Resolved No 'Start-Up' Options with F8 Button

Recent minor problems with my desktop running XP Pro SP3 prompted me to try booting up in 'Safe Mode' using the F8 button. I have used this procedure successfully in the distant past but now I find that I can't get the various start-up options via this method.
When I hold down the F8 button during boot all that I get is a prompt screen giving me the option of booting from Hard Disc or CD Rom.
Any ideas on what is causing this would be welcome.

I realise that I can start in Safe Mode via the 'run msconfig' route but this is only okay providing that it is possible to boot up normally in the first place. I had a problem a while ago where my PC would ONLY start in Safe Mode and I was sure glad of the F8 button then. I'm just worried that I might have to rely on it again.

 

Many thanks Steve, I think you have helped 'silly old me'.
I did as you suggested and pressed F8 intermitantly and still got as before ie. just the boot from Hard Disc or CD Rom options BUT didn't give up as I had previously been doing.
I selected 'Boot from Hard Disc' and, whilst system was booting from this, pressed F8 intermitantly again. Will try again a couple of times before marking this thread as 'resolved'. Again, Many Thanks.