Vista - winload.exe problem with Vista x64 on non dual boot setup

I'm getting the infamous winload.exe error at startup, but most of the help online (such as the one found here as well) seems to only deal with dual bootup with XP and Vista. Does anyone know how to fix the

\windows\system32\winload.exe
status: 0xc0000221

problem on Vista64 Ultimate on a single OS environment? Most of the fixes I've found deals with dual boot and I can't seemt to get it working properly for me.

Any help is appreciated, I'm completely lost

This happened on occasion with Windows XP, where the OS was loaded by NTLDR.EXE

A first response would be to check the hard disk for problems, but in most cases I've encounterd this, the hard disk was fine.

NTLDR loading errors, or in the case of Vista, WINLOAD errors, can also be the result of faulty memory. You'll need to remove and reseat your RAM modules, or use a process of elimination to determine which memory module is giving the fault. You can do this my removing all the memory, and inserting them one at time until the problem come back.

If you have overclocked you rig (or it was sold to you in an overclocked state), then resetting the BIOS memory timings and voltages may also help.

Thanks for the thorough response dzomlija.

I ran the Hitachi Fitness test and the result came back green so I guess I could rule out the HDD for the problem. I've also ran the Memtest for about 15 passes and 0 error was found, should I still conduct the memory removal test?

The other problem I run into is the machine not even booting to the BIOS screen, it just sits there with a blank. Then I would restart couple times and it would start up as if nothing was wrong, or give me the winload.exe message. Could a faulty MB cause such problems? What's really troubling is this doesn't happen ALL the time, seems to show up once in a while.

I bought it from powernotebooks.com about 2 months ago and it's been acting like this since the purchase. I didn't do any overclocking or any hard mod yet.

A blank screen at poweron is either CPU, Motherboard or HDD connection. You've already ruled out HDD, that leaves the motherboard and/or CPU. The erratic behaviour could be an indication of failing hardware.

I think to be on the safe side while we are attempting to diagnose this problem, you should do a backup of all your important data, and keep a regular backup regimen until the problem is resolved. Just in case something pops and it does not want to switch on at all anymore.

Once again, thank you dzomlija,

I installed XP Pro on it to see if it makes any differences, and the same problem still came up.

Blank screen when I push the power button, and I would have to restart to get to the BIOS screen. Once it starts up it operates fine but I don't think condition like this is a healthy one for the machine(lol I've already backed up my data (there weren't much on it to begin with) so I'm glad for that. Think I'll send it in now...

What you can also do as a last test before sending it in to the shop, is to remove and re-seat the memory. Likely if the problem is memory, then the BIOS should indicate that, but the problem could be subtle enough to escape the BIOS tests, but severe enough to cause boot problems....

Thanks dzomlija, I guess i could give this a shot. After all, it's a bit pricey to send it over for a repair. Wouldn't hurt to see if it could work (unless I somehow manage to damage the parts)

Justif the chassis has any "warranty void if removed" stickers, you're should not break them, or you may lose your warranty.

Just make sure the computer is unplugged from the mains and left for about 30-60 seconds to discharge any residual power from the PSU, and remove any static prone clothing and jewelry before messing with the insides of your PC.

Just gently loosen the lock pins both both ends of the memory slots, and remove the ram. Blow gently on the sockets to remove any dust particles, and then re-seat the memory modules without using force. Clip the lock pins back into place.

If this does not do the trick, then I'd suggest a re-load of Windows, but you said you've already tried that with XP.

I've looked inside before and it has no stickers. There's also a PDF manual showing the procedures, but it's hidden deep within the system it's quite intimidating(lol I'll give it a shot though, just might do the trick. If not, atleast I'll get back a working machine and I can put Vista 64 back in

Good luck, but if you remember playing with LEGO as a kid, you shouldn't have a problem with the insides of a PC.

Just remember the golden rule: "If you have to use force, you're either putting it in the wrong place, or the wrong way 'round"