Christmas takes it's toll on everything.
After loading software on a PC (above the req.d spec ) for my kids the machine started hanging so they didn't wait for me and reset it, after doing this quite a few times the PC is hanging while booting.
It won't boot using a start up disc, it just hangs and the floppy light stays on.
When l press F8 and try safe mode it hangs.
Option 4(step-by-step confirmation) it hangs at
Device= C:windows\Himem.sys. (Logo screeen)
At the command prompt blocks appear on the screen.
I get the C:\ at command prompt safe mode.

I changed the HD thinking it as a software problem, but another HD gave the same result. I reset the bios(award) to default values and this made no difference.

After reading an earlier post, apprently 'himem.sys' checks extended memory stored on a ram chip which can be replaced, is this correct? :confused

Is that the solution to my problem or is there another work around?

TIA Fra

Yes, himem.sys is checking extended memory, which is the RAM chip(s). From what I can tell it looks like a memory problem is a good possibility. If it was a corrupt himem.sys file it wouldn't be likely to happen on two hard drives.

Trying different memory might be a good idea. I can't think of anything else at the moment...

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Thanks for your reply Pete.

I did change a Dimm module but it had no effect, the only chip or component that looks like it can be removed easily is the Bios chip, everything else seems to be soldered in. The M/B is a Chaintech 5 AGM2.

Regards

Fra

Just noticed your comment about "blocks appear on the screen". Somehow missed that first time. This can be caused either by a virus or bad hard drive cable. I'd try a new hard drive cable first, and being the kids' machine, especially if it has Internet access, I'd run a virus scanner too. I think the hard drive cable is more likely...

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If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you!
Note: Please post your questions on the forums, not in my email.

Computer Information Links (http://www.geocities.com/paleopete/)

Thanks Pete for the reply.

I changed the IDE cable for a new one, it didn't make any difference.
The PC doesn't have access to the net and the only floppies that have been used on it are start up discs. I removed the HD and ran anti-virus on it. The PC did boot once or twice since and ran OK but it has gone back to hanging at Himem.sys with the same symptoms.

It seemed to boot OK after l had enabled "reset configuration data" in the bios, l don't know whether this helps in tracking the fault, or could it be the dimms l have are not right for the PC?

Rgs

Fra