Starting about a month or so ago, my computer would randomly turn off about 5 minutes after logging in. However, after trying about three times or so in a row, it would eventually stay on and work fine. I just kind of ignored this, mostly due to the fact I procrastinate a lot. Now, whenever I turn it on I get a message that some start up file has been corrupted or has gone missing. It tells me to insert the original start up disc and press r to initiate the repairs. I got my computer from iBuypower, if it matters at all. The recovery disc that came with the computer doesn't seem to do anything at all when I start up the computer. I have an old recovery disc for xp service pack 1, however, and when I put that in a screen comes up that tells me to choose a language and that I'm about to reformat my drive and it will wipe away all user installed applications. I don't care about all that, but for some reason I can't seem to use my keyboard to select a language or proceed or anything. I suspect it's because I have service pack 2, but whenever I try to do boot from the drive the keyboard doesn't respond there either. I know my keyboard isn't broken because whenever I first turn on my computer I can hit f9 and f12 and all that. Is the problem the disc? Why wouldn't the recovery disc that came with the computer work? Would it maybe work if I had a recovery disc for service pack 2? Thanks in advance!

MrCrow?

Knowing, if possible, what that error message is will go a long way to fixing your problem.

The issue is not your KB.. the USB drivers in XP don't load until later in the boot process.

You are able to get into Safe mode?

Here's the error message.

Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt:
\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\CONFIG\SYSTEM

You can attempt to repair this file by starting Windows Setup using the original Start Up CD-ROM. Press 'r' at the first screem to begin repair.

for the windows disc to run from boot up , go to the bios when starting the pc by tapping either esc del or f1 key to enter the bios using the arrow keys go to the boot section and change the first boot device to your cd rom drive this will let you get to the repair feature on the disc

Hi there, user the guided help. This will help you.
How to recover from a corrupted registry that prevents Windows XP from starting

Ok, so I've tried numerous times since this thread started to get this thing up and running, with no success. Today is the first time I've managed to turn the thing on and have it stay on without it turning off randomly for reasons beyond my understanding. Problem is, now the monitor doesn't pick up the signal from the computer. The monitor can't really be to blame, since I use it for my PS3. Any ideas why my monitor won't pick up the signal? I've been putting off fixing this thing but I'm kinda irritated at it now. Also, would bringing it to Best Buy be a good option? I know that would probably cost around $50, but at least it wouldn't stress me out anymore. Thank you for all the replies I've received thus far.