windows\system corrupted, system restored, no sound now

[keyed]

Here's the pertinent facts:

System got interrupted during startup forcing a reboot.
Upon reboot, it states that a file in the windows/system got corrupted and to do a recovery with boot disk.
Loaded the computer with the boot disk, got to the point where it asked for the password for access to windows.. which I fumbled and typed the wrong one in.
After 3 tries, the computer tells you that you'll have to restart to try again. I forget to tell it to load up the cd and a interrupted while booting screen shows up instead of the corrupted screen.
I load the Previous working settings option and windows loads up, minus the background graphics, resolution set to the minimum, and with no sound.
Resolution is changed and working properly.
Sound doesn't work at all.

For the sound, I'm using the onboard AC97 sound card. I tried uninstalling the drivers and reinstalling them. I've tried downloading the latest 4.0 drivers. Nada.

In the properties setting in the device drivers, the status is "Driver is enabled but has not been started"


Anyone been in this situation or knows how to get the sound working again?

 

[KGB]

If you're running XP try doing a system restore to a point before all of this occurred.

 

[keyed]

I can't do a system restore for some reason. When I try access system restore, it gives me following message:
"System Restore is not able to protect your computer. Please restart your computer, and then run System Restore again."

Restarting doesn't allow me to regain access to it.

 

[KGB]

Are you doing this in Safe Mode, or are you into Windows proper?

 

[keyed]

Originally posted by: KGBMAN
Are you doing this in Safe Mode, or are you into Windows proper?

I've tried both and can't get access to System Restore.

I've also found that network folder sharing doesn't work.

I think I'm just going to have to reinstall XP.

 

[Slikkster]

No one should be in a rush to reinstall when there are other solutions.

Your situation has been documented, and one fix has to do with XP's "Plug and Play Software Device Enumerator".

Check to see if it's missing by opening Device Manager.

Double click on the "System Devices" list, and see if you have the "Plug and Play Software Device Enumerator" on your list of devices.

If not, then read this FAQ and follow the directions:

http://pcf.mundayweb.com/index.php?view=136&

If you already DO have this device, then you should do a non-destructive repair installation. Follow those instructions here:

http://www.informationweek.com/windows/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=189400897

 

[xgsound]

Slikkster set you on a good path. I've heard of the sound issue you describe being fixed by his first suggestion. I've used the repair function as described before with good results.


Jim