This isn't good

[ChurchOfSubgenius]

I am working on a friends Dell 9200 that started getting a BSOD "unmountable Boot Volume" ....seemed easy enough, looks like the boot sector is fried, so I tried a Windows repair and it would BSOD before I got to the repair area. Ok...new drive in order.

New 250GB Seagate sata, Windows loads to a point then gives me a severe BSOD and goes into constant reboot+fail mode. I do a memory check (try 4 differant sticks, all the same result)

Ok, sorry buddy, looks like your motherboard has gone wonky and corrupted the OS data on the way....and preventing a new OS install????

I order a new mobo and installed that last night, same thing, same exact thing in every way.

I went thru all the BIOS settings, turned off one of the cores....nothing I do has any effect, the only thing I haven't tried is replacing the processor (2.13 Dual core) I do have a similar processor in another computer so I'm going to try it next but I wanted to see if anyone had any clues before I did.

Thanks for any ideas.

 

[MadAmos]

Have you tried a new HD cable? I would start with a new cable to make sure there is no issue there I assume it is SATA? Another possibility is the PSU if you have a DVOM basic voltage checks should also be made.


Amos

 

[Quiksilver]

For starters, what did you use to test the memory? Memtest? Did you try it with just 1 stick or did you load it up with multiple? Was all the memory sticks you used compatible with the dell(usually have to be 100% jedec compliant)? Does the BIOS let you set the memory timings and the voltage (if it does set it to what it the manufacture requires).

Too me though, sames you already swapped Hard drive and motherboard I'd take those off the list.

I would be looking at.
A) Memory (only because of clarification needed)
b) PSU (I'd be looking at this next)
c) Processor

 

[ChurchOfSubgenius]

I'm 100% sure it's not the memory, I am going to swap out the processor tomorrow.
I have never tested a PSU for voltage issues before, it there a "start here and work till here" kind of rundown?

 

[MadAmos]

Originally posted by: ChurchOfSubgenius
I'm 100% sure it's not the memory, I am going to swap out the processor tomorrow.
I have never tested a PSU for voltage issues before, it there a "start here and work till here" kind of rundown?

Some info here lots more at your favorite search engine link

Amos

 

[ChurchOfSubgenius]

Thanks for the suggestions and info, I try more combinations along with the PSU rail checks and be back later with more fistfulls of hair.