Install Crash Problem... Please Help

[MattHatesVista]

I purchased a HP Laptop with Vista Home Edition SP1 32bit and recently I was recovering the laptop to factory default settings. At the end of the restore the computer crashed before the screen to enter your first account name appears. Now when i start the laptop it will shut off before the log in screen appears. Also, i have ran the hp factory restore disks and the same problem has happened before. The error is as follows:

"The computer restarted unexpectedly or encountered an unexpected error. Windows installation cannot proceed. To install Windows, click "OK" to restart the computer, and then restart the installation."

I have tried to redo the installation about 15 times and the same message appears. My knowledge of computers is above average and any suggestions/idea's would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Matthew

 

[richc46]

Can you get to system restore in safe mode?

 

[Lottiemansion]

Hi,

When you do the restore 16th attempt? Do a destructive restore. That is to say, re-format the disk too.

This will reset the restore process back to the begining & start again instead of continuing the bad recovery.

 

[MattHatesVista]

Thank you both for the speedy response I will give them both a try and tell you what happens.

 

[MattHatesVista]

Ok well it crashed in safe mode. And I am unable to format the hard drive because i am unaware how and the computer will not stay on long enough for me to try. Any suggestions on how to format the hard drive?

Thanks,
Matthew

 

[richc46]

`You must use the install DVD
Boot from the DVD and select clean install with format

see step 12
http://www.vistax64.com/tutorials/68767-clean-install-upgrade-vista.html