OT: Computer help

[Rocket 7]

My brother nmbroncofan is having computer problems and I don't know the answer. His problem is that he has a Dell Dimension 3000 that runs really slow. He tried to reinstall Windows but the computer still runs slow. This is what the computer has:

CPU- 2.8 Ghz intel P4 socket 478
RAM- 512Mb DDR 400
HD- 70 GB; no errors on drive
CD-ROM - 52x

He also had an error during installation that read "Advanced inf install error: The handle is invalid"

[BroncoBuff]

The COMPUTER is slow, or just the Internet?

[BroncoBuff]

What OS? Is it a purchased disk, or pirated?

[dbfan4life]

Did it run fast before? If it did, the problem might be that it spends too much time indoors playing video games instead of being outside playing football. You might also not want to feed it so much rice and frijoles! ;D If you purchased it from Dell, you can always call tech support.

[Rocket 7]

The computer is slow, and the OS WinXP is the Original for the computer

[Taco John]

Just out of curiosity, has he ever opened the case and vaccummed the dust out of there. People forget about that, and it does a number on your computer speed if you let it build up.

[Bob's your Information Minister]

What OS? Is it a purchased disk, or pirated?

Are you insinuating that a pirated OS might run slower? ROFL!

[nmbroncofan]

Its clean. I blew it out with an air cleaner myself.

[Taco John]

Try this:

http://housecall.trendmicro.com

[nmbroncofan]

Are you insinuating that a pirated OS might run slower? ROFL!


There's no such thing as a pirated linux. Too bad laptops can't run on it.

[nmbroncofan]

Try this:

http://housecall.trendmicro.com


Thanks Taco John, but The computer can't even finish the installation

[dbfan4life]

Did it run fast before? If it did, the problem might be that it spends too much time indoors playing video games instead of being outside playing football. You might also not want to feed it so much rice and frijoles! ;D If you purchased it from Dell, you can always call tech support.

Thought you'd like that one, Leroy!

[wabbit]

Just out of curiosity, has he ever opened the case and vaccummed the dust out of there. People forget about that, and it does a number on your computer speed if you let it build up.

I just did that very thing this last weekend & it made a hell of a difference.

The dust actually makes the computer heat up, inhibiting the function of the processor & making it work harder.

Judging by the error warning you're getting, you might try completely uninstalling your OS, and then re-install it...the error warning sounds like one of those start-up glitches in the OS.

[nmbroncofan]

Judging by the error warning you're getting, you might try completely uninstalling your OS, and then re-install it...the error warning sounds like one of those start-up glitches in the OS.

The error actually appeared during installation when i was re-installing

[Bob's your Information Minister]

Could be a problem with the motherboard or the hard drive or even the CD-ROM drive...or even RAM. I replaced the RAM in my computer a few months ago and my install issues disappeared.

[baja]

Get a Mac.

[wabbit]

The error actually appeared during installation when i was re-installing

Have you considered the possibility that the OS software itself is defective or corrupted in some way?

I only run dial-up & had a hellish time getting an internal modem to work a while back...we tried everything on the planet before finally learning the modem itself was defective.

Before you go about tossing your computer off the balcony in frustration, it would be worth the time to call Tech Support OR, pick the thing up & haul it off to a computer repair shop where they've likely seen the exact error a hundred times before.

[Willynowei]

My brother nmbroncofan is having computer problems and I don't know the answer. His problem is that he has a Dell Dimension 3000 that runs really slow. He tried to reinstall Windows but the computer still runs slow. This is what the computer has:

CPU- 2.8 Ghz intel P4 socket 478
RAM- 512Mb DDR 400
HD- 70 GB; no errors on drive
CD-ROM - 52x

He also had an error during installation that read "Advanced inf install error: The handle is invalid"
He needs to reformat the drive. Most likely the main partition is corrupted.
To format the drive:

1.) Enter the boot menu of your computer (I forget if it was F12 or F8 on boot)

2.) Choose the option "Boot from Disc" (assuming the install disc is already in)

3.) Choose the partition and delete it, create two new partitions and reinstall the OS on the new one.

-----

If that doesn't work, your Bios is corrupted. You will need to go online and look for a file from Dell in the form of a floppy to deal with that. Best get customer service for that one, I can't remember the steps.

-----

If you've gone through all that, then it could be a hardware issue.

But one critical question, was there a problem before you tried reinstalling the OS. And is it a OS disc from your manufacturer? There are serious compatibility issues with Dell...

Which brings me to this very important point...

DONT try to fix it with a seperately purchased part, you will fry your motherboard. Dell PCs are purposely designed to do this. It has something to do with the power usage. If the part is not purchased directly from Dell, (such as a videocard) it will fry you motherboard.

Your best bet is to call them up.

[nmbroncofan]

I've tried all that, even switching parts from my other computer that is operating fine. except for the CPU.

[Willynowei]

There's no such thing as a pirated linux. Too bad laptops can't run on it.

wait... are you trying to reinstall your original WinXp OS or a new copy of Linux?

Which one?

I'm not familiar with Linux, however my friend tried installing Linux on his PC that originally came with Windows, he also had trouble installing. I recommended he repartition his drives and it worked for him, he now runs both operating systems.

You might want to try the same.

[wabbit]

Calling the tech support or hauling it down to a reputable repair shop is your best bet at this stage.

Like Willynowei said; you don't want to fry the hardware messing around with the innards, unless, of course, you understand fully what you're doing.

[Willynowei]

I've tried all that, even switching parts from my other computer that is operating fine. except for the CPU.

Is your other PC a Dell?

I think Comp USA offers to take a look at these things for free, they charge 100 dollars for servicing it, but I'm not sure if a checkup counts.

[Willynowei]

I've tried all that, even switching parts from my other computer that is operating fine. except for the CPU.

Well, you still can't figure out if its the motherboard or the CPU, although my guess would be the board. If they are both Dell manufactured and the chipsets are compatible, then go ahead and try the switch.

But be warned, you're pretty screwed if more good parts get fried...

At this point it might even be a good idea to go ahead and sell the good parts of you computer and take that money to invest in a new one. Still not sure why you haven't tried getting it serviced though. A repair shop has the parts to try on your PC untill they figure out which piece is malfunctioning.

[nmbroncofan]

Calling the tech support or hauling it down to a reputable repair shop is your best bet at this stage.

Like Willynowei said; you don't want to fry the hardware messing around with the innards, unless, of course, you understand fully what you're doing.


Thanks for the advice, I do know what i'm doing. The only thing i don't know is how different companies boards operate and even the RAM or CPU can be proprietary. Looks like i have to take it in.

[Rausch]

My brother nmbroncofan is having computer problems and I don't know the answer. His problem is that he has a Dell Dimension 3000 that runs really slow. He tried to reinstall Windows but the computer still runs slow. This is what the computer has:

CPU- 2.8 Ghz intel P4 socket 478
RAM- 512Mb DDR 400
HD- 70 GB; no errors on drive
CD-ROM - 52x

He also had an error during installation that read "Advanced inf install error: The handle is invalid"

Got exactly what you need... (http://www.apple.com/getamac/)

[BroncoBuff]

The computer is slow, and the OS WinXP is the Original for the computer

Here's what you do, step-by-step:

1. When you turn on the computer, push the "Del" key when you first turn it on - or whichever key gets you into the computer's resident "BIOS" and "Setup" settings - check the manual to determine which key does this (the BIOS and Setup are completely separate from Windows or anything on any harddrive or disk drives. They are on the motherboard).
2. In Setup, select "Factory Default Settings," then save and exit BIOS
3. Format the harddrive (complete erase)
4. Next, partition the HDD - using the "NTFS" file system
5. Install the XP disk completely
6. WITHOUT GOING TO ANY OTHER SITES, sign on to http://www.windowsupdate.com and install XP Service Pack 2 and any "Critical Updates" the site suggests
Restart (yet again) .... it should work fine. If not, it's a hardware issue and you'll need professional help.

[BroncoBuff]

Are you insinuating that a pirated OS might run slower? ROFL!
You're an idiot, Bob ... a burned, pirated CD could be installing damaged code, causing the system to run slow ... here's the clue you missed:
...also had an error during installation that read "Advanced inf install error: The handle is invalid"That's a classic damaged CD error message.

Burned (pirated) CD's have more damage than factory CD's by a factor of, oh - I don't know - A THOUSAND TO ONE!

[Bob's your Information Minister]

You're an idiot, Bob ... a burned, pirated CD could be installing damaged code, causing the system to run slow ... here's the clue you missed:

That's a classic damaged CD error message.

Burned (pirated) CD's have more damage than factory CD's by a factor of, oh - I don't know - A THOUSAND TO ONE!

Not across the board...

I've installed several pirated OSes and there's zero difference most of the time...you can scratch a retail CD, too.

[BroncoBuff]

Not across the board...

I've installed several pirated OSes and there's zero difference most of the time...you can scratch a retail CD, too.
Yes, true, I'm just raising the possibility of a damaged OS disk.

I'm betting it's one of two things:

1. Damaged OS disk
2. Somebody altered something in Setup/BIOS

We'll see ...

[i4jelway7]

here is what you need to do... assuming you still have the partitions that were installed from the factory, you can do a system restore to set it back to the way it was when it was originally bought, to do this:

1. boot the computer
2. when you see the Dell screen hold the CTRL key and hit F11 this will take it into a symantec dell restore,
3. after restoring the computer, before you do anything else get all the windows updates

[Banned]

If you wipe the HD and do a fresh install and its still slow, then the problem is hardware and not all errors will show up in diagnostics. Could be anything from the heat sink to the fan to the hard drive not reading properly but still reading to a number of other things.

Format the hard drive, re-install windows, and go from there.

[alkemical]

make sure the cables are tightened too - i had an issue once where i couldn't install - the drive would see the disc and would sort of function - but it was just not completley tight.

if you replaced parts and not cables, try replacing cables...

sometimes it's the most obvious

[nmbroncofan]

I got the OS running it is still slow though. I couldn't get to the OS at first.

[BroncoBuff]

I got the OS running it is still slow though. I couldn't get to the OS at first.
Did you clear the Setup/BIOS, and select "Factory Default Settings"?

Messing with those BIOS settings can kill ya ...

[nmbroncofan]

This BIOS did not have a " Default Factory Setting". The BIOS is very limited.

[BroncoBuff]

This BIOS did not have a " Default Factory Setting". The BIOS is very limited.
There should be a "Reset to Default Values" or something though ...

this problem sounds suspiciously like somebody was messing around in there.

Actually, if you know how to remove your RAM stick - it's about the size of a pocket comb, and has white plastic clamps on each end - do that. Release the clamps, and lift out the stick. Take it into a computer repair place - they can test it real quick. If you need a new stick, try to find a used computer parts store (they're in every decent-sized city now). Make SURE you take the old stick with you so they can match it ... and get at least 128 MB, pref. 256 or 512. A new (used) stick should be $20 - $25 tops (a new one could be $50 - $60).

Even if that's not the problem, the RAM is still a good investment.

.

[nmbroncofan]

You're an idiot, Bob ... a burned, pirated CD could be installing damaged code, causing the system to run slow ... here's the clue you missed:
That's a classic damaged CD error message.

Burned (pirated) CD's have more damage than factory CD's by a factor of, oh - I don't know - A THOUSAND TO ONE!

The CD is the original from Dell and is not damaged. But the INF error did not appear when I got the OS running this time.

[BroncoBuff]

The CD is the original from Dell and is not damaged. But the INF error did not appear when I got the OS running this time.
I'll bet dollars to Krispy Kremes it's one opf two things: BIOS settings or hardware. Try testing the RAM stick (post above).

One more thing it could be ... the IDE strip - that's the 3-inch wide flexible gray plastic connecter to the HDD. Make sure it's smoothed out and has no sharp bends (replace it if you can - a new one is $1 at a used parts place).

[nmbroncofan]

I'm going to try the Flash BIOS update from Dell, maybe that will help. The release date is 2-17-06. the release is for the 3000 A03 which is the BIOS version i have now. I hope this will correct it.

[No1BroncoFan]

Got exactly what you need... (http://www.apple.com/getamac/)
Don't buy the bullsh*t of Mac. Thier processors are so great that they're switching to Intel. ::)

PC or Mac, neither is immune to hardware trouble, software bugs or virus attacks.

Ben

[ZachKC]

I have been trying out Linux and have really enjoyed it. I doubt I stay with it for the long haul but it does some good things. There were a few small needs I had it just couldn't quite meet.

[Kaylore]

Don't buy the bullsh*t of Mac. Thier processors are so great that they're switching to Intel. ::)

PC or Mac, neither is immune to hardware trouble, software bugs or virus attacks.

Ben http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SqNdVC0EFY&search=macintosh%20sucks

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZSr89b4EoA&search=macintosh%20vs%20pc

[watermock]

Throw it in the dumpster. This one rocks and was 350 bucks. 3+ Athlon,512,80 gigs, flat 17.

[BroncoBuff]

I'm going to try the Flash BIOS update from Dell, maybe that will help. The release date is 2-17-06. the release is for the 3000 A03 which is the BIOS version i have now. I hope this will correct it.
BIOS updates mean very little unless they can reset your settings ...

OH MY GOD! I forgot ...

Resetting the BIOS is really quite easy:

1. UNPLUG THE COMPUTER
2. Open the computer box and look closely at the motherboard (the large, 10 x 12 -inch flat board everything else is plugged into).
3. Locate the battery on the motherboard - it's attached somewhere - it's larger than a watch battery, but smaller than a nickel.
4. Carefully slide back the spring clamp holding the battery in place, and release the battery.
5. Hold the battery outside the box for at least 2 minutes - make it 10 minutes just to be safe
6. Replace the battery where it was, plug in and boot up the computer

The battery is what saves the Setup/BIOS settings, so now they're clear. You DO NOT have to re-install the software at this point.

If the problem persists, check the IDE strips and the RAM stick as suggested in Posts #36 and #38 above.

If none of this works - you have a hardware problem - maybe the motherboard (BTW - you do have a fan on the Pentium, right?)

Aside from all this, you should take it in somewhere. You can get some amazing deals on new computers, too - $200 to $300 - especially because you already have a monitor (I assume your monitor works).

[i4jelway7]

This BIOS did not have a " Default Factory Setting". The BIOS is very limited.


to reset the bios to defaults hit ALT & F anywhere in the bios, you should hear a beep, save & exit, reboot and the bios defaults are loaded.

[No1BroncoFan]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SqNdVC0EFY&search=macintosh%20sucks

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ZSr89b4EoA&search=macintosh%20vs%20pc
:spit:

[No1BroncoFan]

I have been trying out Linux and have really enjoyed it. I doubt I stay with it for the long haul but it does some good things. There were a few small needs I had it just couldn't quite meet.
Sorry Zach, but you won't find a computer or an OS with a blow job feature. Ha!

Ben

[Needa Pass Rush]

The geek squad at the local Best Buy recommended this free (and fast) download to clear crap off your computer. www.CCleaner.com (http://www.CCleaner.com)

It stands for CrapCleaner. Check it out. I use it regularly with the standard disk cleaner and defragmenter to keep things 'uncluttered' and fast.

You'll want to get into it's settings to tell it to leave your Orangemane cookie alone (and any other regular site that you don't want to type in your password everytime).

[alkemical]

I use CC cleaner on my windows box and believe it or not - windows defender isn't bad either.

[nmbroncofan]

BIOS updates mean very little unless they can reset your settings ...

OH MY GOD! I forgot ...

Resetting the BIOS is really quite easy:

1. UNPLUG THE COMPUTER
2. Open the computer box and look closely at the motherboard (the large, 10 x 12 -inch flat board everything else is plugged into).
3. Locate the battery on the motherboard - it's attached somewhere - it's larger than a watch battery, but smaller than a nickel.
4. Carefully slide back the spring clamp holding the battery in place, and release the battery.
5. Hold the battery outside the box for at least 2 minutes - make it 10 minutes just to be safe
6. Replace the battery where it was, plug in and boot up the computer


The battery is what saves the Setup/BIOS settings, so now they're clear. You DO NOT have to re-install the software at this point.

If the problem persists, check the IDE strips and the RAM stick as suggested in Posts #36 and #38 above.

If none of this works - you have a hardware problem - maybe the motherboard (BTW - you do have a fan on the Pentium, right?)

Aside from all this, you should take it in somewhere. You can get some amazing deals on new computers, too - $200 to $300 - especially because you already have a monitor (I assume your monitor works).

I thought about that battery too, I didn't put it back, I put a new one in. The one in there was about dead. I couldn't use the clear CMOS jumper on the board which would reset the BIOS. The computer works fne. Thanks to everyone who helped.