Checked out the suggested file; bootloader is exactly the same as on a 
correctly booting XP computer.

On 1/1/2011 2:46 PM, [log in to unmask] wrote:
> Check the boot.ini file.
> http://support.microsoft.com/kb/289022
>
> -------- Original Message --------
> Subject: [PCBUILD] no boot?
> From: Russ Cox<[log in to unmask]>
> Date: Fri, December 31, 2010 6:41 pm
> To: [log in to unmask]
>
> I am refurbishing a Dell Inspiron 4500, 1.4 GHz P4, 128 MB RAM, 120 GB
> HDD. I have loaded XP Home several times and it seems to load ok. But
> when I take the XP CD out, it won't boot from the HDD.
> Here's what I've tried:
> Loaded XP Home, no problem
> Removed CD, won't boot
> Reloaded XP 2X more, same result
> Replaced hard drive, same result. Put original HDD back in
> Reset CMOS, no better
> Tested memory, no problem
> Repaired MBR (fixmbr) with XP CD, no improvement
> Repaired boot sector(fixboot) with XP CD, no improvement
> Ran chkdsk, said no problem, but on second try said there were some
> errors, did not offer to mark bad sectors ??
> If I put the XP CD in the drive, then do_not_ press "start with CD", it
> starts fine from the HDD??
> Short test and long test with Seagate HDD test shows no problems.
> Replaced the IDE cable, no improvement.
> Any ideas what might be causing this?
>
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