Hi there, I'm having a problem with XP - it's a recent, clean install (I blanked the machine and re-formatted, then installed XP). On first power-on booting, it goes through to the XP logo screen and blue bar OK, then goes to a black screen and nothing happens. If I reset, and select 'start windows normally', it works fine and the machine runs trouble-free. I did the Recovery console FIXBOOT thing, that didnt seem to change much. Didnt do the other command, FIXMBR tho...would that help. AFAIK - no hardware conflicts/issues exist. Would a repair installation of XP do the trick?

Before you run a repair or reinstall, try running SFC /SCANNOW from the Start menu, you will need your Xp cd.

That command will scan and repair as necessary all Windows files.

Another thing to look at, are you using Easy cd creator? that's been known to boot-hang, there's a patch available.

As a last resort, open your case, unplug all cards, ram, and leads, blow out all the sockets, and reinsert your hardware making sure it is all firmly in place.