
Originally Posted by
jaylach
As to restoring the drive from a backup exactly what kind of backup? If it is a system image yes you can but not from just the file backup.
I only have the DELL Vista CD
Have you tried starting the system in Safe Mode?
I did try this at one stage - no luck
Can't remember if Vista has this startup option but if there try starting with the last known good configuration.
Tried the safe points - no luck
Yes, an improper shutdown can harm a drive.
I though so
First thing that I would do is to backup any and all data files. I take it that you are running Ubuntu on the system with the bad drive. Use Ubuntu to move all data , documents, pictures, etc. to optical media or a flash drive if possible.
I can back up at any time. I can gain access through the UBUNTU pendrive
Once the data is safe the quickest and easiest fix would be to just do a clean install of Vista formatting the drive. Myself, with the price of a decent sized drive, I would not trust the old drive and would buy another. One factor is that you can then feel more secure about the drive. Another factor is that you then still have the problem drive intact and it can be slaved to the system as a second drive to possibly hold image backups once it has proven to still be reliable.
Would a re-install to the same HD avoid any problem sectors
Not sure about Vista but I believe that earlier versions of Windows had a method to restore copies of the registry, I believe through the repair console. Sorry but it has been too long and I have zero recollection of the procedure.
I copied to reg files from their backup to config - no luck
Sorry that I can't be more help but Vista was a long time ago for me as I was running Win 7 quite a while before it even hit the shelves due to being a beta tester.
I am greatful that you have responded.
Remember that if you go with a format and re-install of Vista you will have to re-install all software and hardware drivers.