This problem has been in place since i bought my PC - and despite re-installing windows several times, it still exists.

The sequence of events is like this............

1. I boot up computer.
2. Fan starts to make noise - then nothing happens, so i shut down.
3. I reboot PC - this time i get the Hewlett Packard logo and things seem well.
4. I get the black screen saying *Windows didnt shut down correctly last time*
5. I choose Use Last Known Good Configuration.
6. I get the Hewlett Packard logo and things seem well again.
7. It goes back to No.4 above, so i repeat step 5.
8. Finally, PC boots up and works.


I've noticed though, this ONLY HAPPENS when i've had the PC shut down for a while. For instance, if i have updated windows or installed something and it says i need to restart machine, it boots up perfectly. The problem above only occurs when PC has been shut off.

Any ideas anyone? I don't think its particularly life-threatening in terms of it being a problem, but it means other users in my home have no idea how to succeed in bootingup PC if i am not there, so a fix would be super.

Once this is sorted, i should have a 100% functional PC and i promise never to darken the doors of this forum with my tedium ever again

Hello Dame this link may help?

Advanced troubleshooting for general startup problems in Windows XP

However you seem to of had problems for a long time ever since you had PC?

Thanks JB - its done this re-booting loop thing ever since i first got it.

Not from the first boot, but after a few days of owning it.

I'll take a look at the link - much appreciated

I've given my computer its final warning now - so hopefully it'll start to behave.

There are a few extra links attached but to be honest you have tried most of them ideas.
This could of just been a manufacturers dud machine.You uasly get a few duds on the production line.
However check your BIOS settings etc.Have you ever updated the BIOS and downloaded chipset etc from there website?

Me I would strip the PC and rebuild it testing ALL parts slowly but surley

Dont think i have update bios.

I downloaded Sm Bus Controller drivers last night - whatever that means.

Will look into how to update bios.

About 1 boot in 10, i get the motherboard screen loading up prior to windows xp appearing - but only about 1 in every 10 boots - the rest of the time it doesnt come on.

I think my machine is haunted.

go to website and put in make n model under support and drivers and it will give you updated drivers