DELL Inspiron 1501, laptop does not start properly, HDD crash?

Hi all,

My DELL Inspiron 1501 laptop is not starting properly.

First the message is that the last time the computer was not shut properly and asks if I want to start Windows Normally or in Safe mode etc. Even if any mode is selected, after a while the message on the blue background screen that I get is as follows
" STOP: c0000218 {Registry file failure}
The Registry cannot load the hive(file):
\SystemRoot\System32\config\SOFTWARE
or its log or alternate.
It is corrupt, absent or not readable.

Begining dump of Physical memory
Physical memory dump complete
Please contact administrator...."

The thing stops there!

I tried to boot using the Windows CD but the Boot menu is not showing the DVD/CD drive.

Please advice the steps I should take to return the Laptop to normal working.

Thanks,

Vijay