windows could not start because the following files are mising or corrupt. <windows root>\system32\hal.dll plese reinstall a copy of the above file. This happens when i turn on my vios sony PCG-Z505GAM and well...it does not have support on the sony tech. webbie... Found my recovery disc and slot it into a portable CD-ROM reader(is this what they are called???),same thing happens.Went into bios and into the boot sequence thing..it onli showed three things: diskette diskette hard drive cant go into safe mode,vga and the rest of the stuff at the f8 menu...it seems that the notebook cannot detect my cd-rom reader.However,the cd-rom reader is fully functional as i have tested it on another notebook.The notebook does not give my cd-rom any power when loading and i have to connect it to an external dc power source .Plus,my cd-rom reader is properly connected.Help pls help...i have no idea what to do next...

reallyneedhelp, seems it's no stranger at Google. See if you can locate the info you need @: http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=system32%5Chal.dll+description&btnG=Google+Search HTH. Ed in Texas.

You may also try this LINK " It'll Get Ya When You Aint Lookin " Please Post back to let us know if we helped

No..no,the links are not pointing to my problem.My problem is that i cant even get into windows or even safe mode,therefore there is no way im going to see a boot.ini file.2ndly,i cant from cd in bios because my cd-rom is not detected on bios.It has only 3 things: diskette diskette hard drive Anyway,ty for replying.Problem aint solved yet,need more suggestions coming in... Btw will the Shaun Gary's solution worl with my problem?If so can some 1 simplyfy it for me???Anyway,thanx again...

And also,if possible,can i attach the HD of my VIAO notebook to a PC??Just another question.