Crashed Computer

[sg_in_nc]

I know this is a bit off topic here butc an someone help? HP Online tech support has crashed my computer and now they will not correct the proplem with out charging me!They had me delete all devices under Device Manager tab,excluding hard disc controlers, and try to download/install new bios and graphics files.Can't install..recieve a window saying this cant be done with out an operating system. Have tried to reinstall Win ME from bootdisc but command prompt only lets you go so far(C:\windows\options\cabs) and then tells you you have entered a bad command or file name.My cd-rom drive is down so I can't install from restore cd.Can I install new cd-rom drive at this point and it run so the restore cd can do the fix?

[Eddy]

- Install a new cdrom (or fix yours)
- Put in the ME cd
- Boot from it and overwrite the current version.
(Do not format the drive. This way all data will be preserved)
- Install a av
- Install a firewall (if you haven't a hardware one)
- Visit Windows Update and install ALL security patches/updates.

You may have to (re)install some applications though, but that would be all.
You will still have all your data.

If you have a backup for your data, it is advised to format and do a clean installation.

[sg_in_nc]

Thanks Eddy
I figured one of you members here could give me good, solid advice, as you have helped me out in the past.

I really do not want ME back on the computer. I have a copy of Windows98 I would like to install instead.Can I do this or do I have to take it to a shop to get 98 installed?I've never done this sort of task but would like to learn.

Thanks again
SG

[Eddy]

Install 98(se) is almost the same as I said earlier.
BUT !!!!!!

- You need to format first.
- After installing 98, you first need to install all the motherboard drivers.
- Then install all other drivers that 98 didn't provided. (eg soundcard, videocard, modem etc)
- Install a firewall (if you haven't got a hardware one)
- Install AV software (Avast)
(you have to do the above while you are not connected to any network!)

- Visit Windows update and install all security patches/update.
- Only now you can go install applications and/or set data back from a backup

[sg_in_nc]

I'm going to give this a try Eddy..can't be any worse off than I am right now!!The ME cd that came with the computer is a restore cd that has bundled software on it so  this will get rid of all the extra baggage that Compaq installs.I just hope that Compaq hasn't got some form of proprietary nonsense going on with the motherboard drivers/ME system they have on the restore cd.