Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt: System32\Dr

[kkjensen]

I'm trying to help a friend of mine with his computer and I have almost given up. I will describe the error, what I have done, what I think and what I'm about to do

Error Code on Boot:

Windows could not start because the following file is missing or corrupt: System32\Drivers\Ntfs.sys

OS being used: Windows XP Home

System:

Abit NF7-S 512mbram Crucial PC2700
Athlon XP2600 Processor Retail version
80 gig Western Digital
Geforce 4 4200 8X
400watt certified power supply
Chieftech Aluminum case
Liteon CDRW & DVD-Rom Drive
utilizing onboard SoundStorm Audio.

The system was originally built by a mutual friend and encoutered the same problem so the processor and memory were RMA'd. System will work perfectly for about 3 weeks then slow down and result in the above error on boot.

I rebuilt the system with a full format for him and noticed a few errors in the BIOS but nothing significant. Again, the system worked for about 3 weeks and resulted in the same error. I have checked every IDE connection and everything is fine.

I have followed all forum posts I can find and renamed the system32\drivers\ntfs.sys file and replaced it...still doesn't work. I have seen a few mentions of viruses that may have caused the problem but I think it is more hardware related (Even though the owner didn't install anti-virus software or a firewall.....despite my warnings and his use of broadband). I just requested a RMA on his hard drive from Western Digital and the drive should be here is about 3 days.

Of course I tried to run the repair utility with XP and it said it couldn't repair it. ****One thing I did notice this time is that I tried to complete a reformat (quick) and it looked like it did it but could not copy the files and stopped the installation of XP. I then tried a full format and after 2 hours it was only at 10% so I figured something was terribly wrong.

I'm stuck any suggestions?? I have build computers for years and have never had anything this strange happen so I seek your knowledge.

Thanks!!

KJ

[Alfie]

What hard drive is being used and how is it jumpered?
Have you tried different memory?

[kkjensen]

It is a Western Digital WDCJ800 <---I think the model number is correct. It is a Special Edition 80 gig drive. The jumper is removed and it is set on IDE 1 as Master.

[bailey]

its the ntfs.sys file that is bad.
sence you already tried to reinstall it and failed, your data is not a problem anymore.
do a full virus scan, and what was the error in the bios ?

could be a clue
the xp-home cd is a oringanl and not a copy ?

you did a full format after doing fdisk to make sure there is no strays left behind ?

one of the above should correct the problem

[KHT]

Try downloading and running WDs diagnostic utilities on the drive. Also curious what the bios errors were you mentioned.

[KHT]

Try downloading and running WDs diagnostic utilities on the drive.

[KHT]

Try downloading and running WDs diagnostic utilities on the drive. Also curious what the bios errors were you mentioned.

[kkjensen]

Windows XP is definately a legit version...I'm not in to that piracy stuff!
As far as the BIOS, there were not "Errors" per say but rather alot of improper configurations in the "Settings". The memory timing and a few other issues were changed.
I'm pretty sure the HD is bad and yes I did FDISK and full formats each and every time with the exception of the one mentioned earlier. The drive should be here either Friday or Monday so I will update the status at that time.

Thanks All!!!