rik--Bruce says your 2 suggestions didn't solve the problem. He's going to try the Repair Install procedure (using the XP CD) per www.michaelstevenstech.com...if that works, he won't have to format. If it doesn't, then I guess a format is the only option left.

Well, we will see. I'm afeared, Adeydas, that your pessimism will be justified. If so, Damn!