WinXP won't re-install

After getting concerned calls about windows xp not installing, i checked it out and found that the Compaq CQ2003WM Desktop PC restarts during setup after hitting "Next" on the Date/time/language screen. There are no installation or back-up discs; it has a recovery partition that has been used before to reinstall the system. I tried putting the hard drive in another pc running windows xp and booting but it restarts at the Windows logo screen everytime. I've ran chkdsk and antivirus with no problems. I can see the drive to copy files but don't want to lose the embedded registration key. How do I determine what file(s) is/are corrupt to replace them. Yes, i've considered upgrading the OS but the owner isn't sold on it yet.

 

You can get the embedded key with this utility.

http://www.nirsoft.net/articles/extract_windows_xp_product_cd_key.html

Edit: can you do a system restore to an earlier date in safe mode. Or, Last Know Good Configuration?

 

I have the key now thanks to the posted link. I now have two questions: 1) Why would XP setup restart automatically after hitting "Next" on the Regional and Language Options screen? 2) How do I install windows xp on a hard drive connected via sata raid in a pc already running windows xp from another ide connected hard drive?

In response to tgell, there are no system restore dates or Last Known Good Configuration because this issue started AFTER the owner attempted to reinstall windows from the recovery partition.

 

I am not sure about Number 2 but I would recommend that the owner purchase the Recovery Kit at a nominal cost. I think HP charges about $20-30 for the Recovery Kit. It requires a serial number off of the PC.

http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/...en&cc=us&dlc=en&sw_lang=&product=3895887#N268

 

I was hoping not to have to order anything from HP regarding XP simply because it's so old. I do, however, have a copy of XP on disc but i know in installing it, i would lose all factory software in the format right? This is the reason for #2 question. Is there a proggy or app that could compare the recovery partition with the installation disc to determine corrupt or missing files?

 

If the XP disk is retail and it has not been installed on another computer or has been uninstalled, then the key would work and it would activate after calling Microsoft. If the XP install disk was OEM and if it was previously installed, the key could not be activated even if was uninstalled on another computer. OEM licenses are not transferable. If you could get your hands on a Compaq XP disk, that may work without any activation required.

Yes, the factory software will go away after a format. I do not know of a program that will do what you want. The Recovery Partition may be corrupted as you say. There may also be a problem with the system partition or hard drive itself. You can test if the drive is defective by running a diagnostic that is usually provided by the hard drive manufacturer.

There is one option that may or may not work because some people have reported success and others not. The restart problem could be caused if the system partition was somehow corrupted during the install from the Recovery Partition. I am not sure if Compaq uses a modified MBR for their Recovery Partition but once you format, there is a possibility you would not be able to get into the Recovery Partition at boot using the keyboard if this procedure failed.Download a bootable partition manager like Partition Wizard. Boot the CD and format the existing system partition. Then mark the Recovery Partition as active. Reboot up to the Recovery Partition.

Sorry, but that is about all I can think of. Maybe somebody here can jump in and give their thoughts on this or know of a program that you are looking for.