[AndyM]

Thanks for the input Hpro,
I was able to run scanreg and get booted to win 98 with a backup from September, but a lot of drivers needed reinstallation for hardware accessories. Some programs are in the Add/Remove Programs window, but are not available on the start menu. There are a couple of registry backups available that started but they are dated for Feb of 2000! I suspect from when I first installed Windows in Feb of 2001. If I restored to one of them what do I lose? Will all programs and hardware added since have to be re-installed?

It's not looking like I will be able to get my cd burner operative. If so, I may need to format and re-install. I need to know if Partition magic sets a partition, is it safe. Because I used partition magic to resize partitions a month or so ago. Will I not lose data in a partition if I don't format any but c: or change partition sizes during reinstall. I'd really hate to lose these digital photos from our vacations, weddings, etc.

I will have a new sound card to install by midweek. With all this registry so flakey, I really don't mind a fresh start so long as irreplaceables are not lost. Thanks again.