Invalid Disk Error on Windows ME

I was doing Malware removal and everything was working fine and then my intelligent father decided to do something to the system (again) and now everytime we turn on the computer it keeps reading something along the lines of "Invalid System Disk, Press any key to continue" So was searching Google for an answer so my mom didn't threaten to you my computer (lord knows what they would do to mine) and the only answer I can find is to use a System Recovery disk and lose all data on the computer. When I told my mom that she was yelling at ME because she didn't want to lose all her pictures. She's kind of has some nerve to yell at ME for fixing their crap system and now it's broken again. So can somebody PLEASE explain to me what to do and if there is a way to save these pointless pictures she wants?

 

Have you tried the things listed in this article? http://support.microsoft.com/kb/128730

As for saving the pictures you could use a place like Photobucket or Imageshack to upload the pictures to that way if something happens or if you need to do a restore they are saved on the internet and she can (if she wants to) re-save them back to her computer.

I've used both sites and they are fairly simple to use. Its how I "back up" my pictures.

Hope you get things resolved

 

It's not a fact of saving them on something, its a fact of trying to GET to them because I cannot get on Windows period. There is practically no way to get onto windows after the HP logo. I tried F8, nothing, only F1 works so far. All I need to know is if there is a way to avoid deleting them so I don't get my head chopped off

 

There is an option with the recovery disks (provided you have them) that you can either repair or reformat. If you use the repair option it replaces all the files that maybe be missing or corrupt but leaves all your personal items alone (i.e. pictures). If you choose reformat you will lose all of your data as it will revert the pc back to factory settings.

I've done the repair before so I can vouch that all my personal documents stayed exactly in place.

 

Are you positive because i'm using an HP Recovery Disk and it says right away that if I don't want to accept to the terms (which says below that I will lose all files) then press C for Cancel

 

Try a windows boot floppy such as the one from MG below.

You should be able to control the pc from here and copy any jpeg files, before reformatting.

Next time you reinstall Windows ME create a recovery disk at the option.

Windows 9x floppies will also work.

http://www.majorgeeks.com/Ultimate_Boot_Disk_ME_d1497.html

 

Did it ask if you wanted to repair or recover yet? I believe it asked me the same thing right before it gives you the option to repair or recover.

Btw - I have a HP running ME that I used the recovery disks on and it saved all my data.

 

Yes you can sometimes use the ME disk to repair by doing an installation 'over the top' of an existing.

Just remember to say NO to any format option.

 

The disk says "HP RECOVERY Disk" and no Safe Mode does no come up