Windows will not start

HELP!!! I closed my laptop while is was shutting down, now Windows will not start, and system repair is not working. I do not have my installation disc. What should I do?

If you create a recovery DVD, you may be able to boot to recovery options
Create Recovery DVD

The Vista recovery disk is used to boot Vista when it won't boot - to run Startup Repair, System Restore, access a Command Line, Recover using a Vista Backup Image, etc.
System Recovery Options

If Vista will not start now, boot the Recovery CD to run Startup Repair which automates System Restore as well as numerous other tests including System File Checker which can repair system files which are not corrupted beyond repair.

If Vista still will not start, try booting into Safe Mode to run sfc /scannow to repair System files.
Special Thanks Given to Seven Forums.

Below is a bulletin distributed by MS to explain the start up procedure when Windows will not boot.

• Startup Repair. Startup Repair is a Windows recovery tool that can fix certain problems, such as missing or damaged system files, that might prevent Windows from starting. Startup Repair is located on the System Recovery Options menu, which is on the Windows Vista installation disc. If your computer has preinstalled recovery options, it might also be stored on your computer's hard disk. For more information, see Startup Repair: frequently asked questions and What are the system recovery options in Windows Vista? If your computer does not include Startup Repair, your computer manufacturer might have customized or replaced the tool. Check the information that came with your computer or go to the manufacturer's website.
• Change restart settings in safe mode. If your computer is stuck in a loop where Windows fails, attempts to restart, and then fails again repeatedly, restart your computer in safe mode and select the Disable automatic restart on system failure checkbox. For more information, see Advanced startup options (including safe mode).
• Reinstall. If no other options have solved the problem, and you are sure that your computer's hardware is functioning normally, you might need to reinstall Windows. A custom (clean) installation of Windows will permanently delete all of the files on your computer and reinstall Windows, so only use this option if all other recovery options have been unsuccessful. After the installation, you will need to reinstall your programs and restore your files from backup copies. For more information, see Installing and reinstalling Windows**.

I don't have any of the disc that came with the computer, the startup repair is running and running, it's not giving me any options. Also, the system restore is telling me that I my "computer is running in a limited diagnostic state. If you use System restore in this limited state, you cannot undo the restore operation" but, it still does not give me the option to do the restore.

What is the make and model of your computer?

Compaq Presario A900 Dual Core

When the initial blue HP screen appears, press the F10 key repeatedly until a recovery menu appears. The progress indicator that first appears does not indicate that a recovery is taking place. The progress indicator represents the time before the recovery process is started.

When the Recovery screen appears, click Next, and then click Yes to perform a normal, non-destructive recovery.

To perform a destructive recovery, click Advanced, and then click Yes.

CAUTION: A destructive recovery will format the hard drive. This will delete all the information on the hard drive and reinstall Windows and the original software that came with the computer.

After the System Recovery is complete, the computer restarts and continues into Windows setup. Complete the setup screens and wait until the computer finishes the setup.


NOTE: It may take a long time to complete Windows setup. This time varies and may take over an hour, depending on the amount of files that were stored in the user account folders (Like My Documents and the Desktop).

When you can access the Windows desktop, immediately enable the Firewall, download important updates, and set a restore point.
(Credit given to Kioska.net)

You wil lose all of your documents etc.

If you want to save documents, post before trying anything.

A box came up (system recovery options) I chose english, us. The next on says to pick a operating systen to repair and click next, there are no operating systems listed.
Then it says that if my operating system is not listed to click load drivers, to load my hard disks, that's where I get into trouble I don't have the installation media it's asking for and when I click okay a box opens up with look in :System 32 with a bunch of folders.

I would really like to save my documents.

This is what I think the easiest and best option for you
Call the company that made the computer with Vista preinstalled. Ask them for a Vista install CD (for cost about $25.00) then reinstall the system.
or
For about 125 you can buy an upgrade Windows 7

Thanks, a upgrade to Windows 7 was what I was thinking too. As usual you're there to save the day. I appreciate you much !

If you get Seven. Visit our Seven Forums, Im there and can help you install.
Get the upgrade Seven not the full retail. They are the same and can save you a lot.

7 upgrade got it, I'll be looking for you. Thanks again.

Read and understand this
Clean Install with a Upgrade Windows 7 Version - Windows 7 Forums[2]=General Tips
Watch how its done on youtube
Then buy the DVD
The if you have questions, find me in Seven and I will be there for you.

Okay I will. I know the next thing I will need to understand is the difference between 32 and 64 bit. I was running Vista 32 bit. I want to see If I can do Windows 7 X64

Before doing any thing.
Seven
32 bit or 64 bit be sure that your computer meets the required specs.
http://www.microsoft.com/windows/windows-7/get/system-requirements.aspx

Okay I will, I cannot see anything now. I've had this computer for a while now and I don't know where any of the paperwork or spec sheets are anymore. I guess I will have to contact HP to get the needed specs.