Windows did not start successfully (XP)

[tibs]

Ok, this is my moms laptop (Hp Pavilion dv 8000)

On boot up it goes to the "windows did not start successfully etc etc" screen with all the options like safe mode, last known good etc....

Non of the options are working.

-Choosing Command prompt the comp ends up freezing
-Choosing Safe Mode just reboots the computer and goes right back to the windows did not start successfully screen (all 3 safe mode options)
-Choosing Last known Good, also just reboots the comp and goes back to the windows did not start successfully screen
-Start Windows Normallly, same thing, jiust reboots to the same screen.

-Booting and using the Win XP cd to try a repair, the set up freezes on "Setup is loading files (FAT File System)



So, im stuck at this point.

How do i work around this?

This laptop is completly stock, no changes made to the system.. It had AVG anti-virus...i doubt maybe a virus did this...

[glc]

Hardware problem. Ram and hard drive diagnostics recommended.

[tibs]

ya, so, how do i do that being stuck at this point?

[glc]

They both will run from bootable media.

www.memtest.org

Determine the manufacturer of the hard drive and download the diagnostics from their site. If you cannot determine the brand, the Hitachi Drive Fitness test will work.

www.hgst.com

[tibs]

thanks for your help