Can I save my system files on a DVD?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Carrie
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C

Carrie

Guest
Just spent the last few days getting an error message on dialup (I wrote about in another post, resolved by putting in a new modem) but got me to thinking...
When I got my DELL XPS 400 (has Win XP "media edition" I think is "professional"?) I didn't get a restore or backup WIN cd with it. Apparently they stopped giving them with it, and said you don't need it, the restore files are built in.
After having the problem with error message, involving a system file (though replacing the modem fixed it, the file involved was in drivers IN the system files) I'm wondering if and how I can save the system files?
I had tried this before, the folder i386. It's too big for a cd so I saved it on a DVD.
But, the past few days when I got the error message, I dragged it from the dvd and replaced it and nothing changed (okay, I know, I needed a new modem but I didn't realize that then, I was trying everything)
My question is, I have the folder with i386 saved on a DVD, is this something I could use to replace files at some time in the future?
When I had WIN 98 (I actually got so I knew a little bit about) there was a scan one could do, showing if any of the window files were bad and needing replacing. If so, you could put in the WIN 98 cd and point it and it would fix it. Or, go online and find the file as a download and replace it. There were also system files on the harddrive (Cab files?) I remember learning on a computer help board how to reinstal Windows (98) throught the cab files and not the restore CD (which was faster, and you didn't lose your program files, etc)
Anyway, is there something I can do, to make sure I have needed WIN XP files I might need? Is the folder I have saved (i386) enough? Should it be saved as a folder (which is what I have) or openned up and saved on a DVD that way? Is there a scan I can do that checks the WIN XP files on my computer, and if any are bad/missing I could use the DVD to replace them (or find them somewhere as a download online)?
Hope my question(s) make sense, I'm not always sure I really know what I want or mean (LOL)
In a way it amazes me that I can even "talk" computer.
I was thinking of contacting Dell and asking if I could buy a restore CD for Win XP (my computer) but I know someone who tried to get a part (a fan) for her computer from them, and they wouldn't sell itto her because her guarantee/warrenty had run out and she'd have to renew that before they'd sell her a part.
If I can make a backup DVD ( cds are apparently too small) of my system while it is working, that might be the same?

Thanks,
Carrie
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?

You can use "Image Backup" software to make a complete backup of your Windows partition (usually the C: drive). Image backups are stored in a compressed image file which is about 40% less in size than the amount of space used by the Windows partition (pagefile is excluded from a backup). You can also specify the file size break point, so for instance if a full image backup creates an image file of say 8GB the beak point can be set to 4GB resulting in a split file of 4 GB each which then can be saved to a DVD or optionally during the Image backup you can specify the DVD drive as the destination and create the backup directly to DVD media.

Most image backup software also allows you to extract a file or folder (from the image backup file) back to your Windows partition. This way you can restore what you need (as long as a file is not in use (locked) by Windows.

Norton Ghost - has a 30 day trial available
(Trial does not allow you to create a Bootable Restore CD AFAK)
http://www.symantec.com/norton/products/overview.jsp?pcid=br&pvid=ghost14
Product Review "Symantec's 14th Ghost":
http://www.softpedia.com/reviews/windows/Norton-Ghost--Review-78775.shtml

True Image - has a 15 day trial version available,
(Trial version can create a Restore CD, but I have not verified this yet)
http://www.acronis.com/homecomputing/products/trueimage/

JS
http://www.pagestart.com

"Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message news:OlhzhjMHJHA.4564@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
Just spent the last few days getting an error message on dialup (I wrote about in another post, resolved by putting in a new modem) but got me to thinking...
When I got my DELL XPS 400 (has Win XP "media edition" I think is "professional"?) I didn't get a restore or backup WIN cd with it. Apparently they stopped giving them with it, and said you don't need it, the restore files are built in.
After having the problem with error message, involving a system file (though replacing the modem fixed it, the file involved was in drivers IN the system files) I'm wondering if and how I can save the system files?
I had tried this before, the folder i386. It's too big for a cd so I saved it on a DVD.
But, the past few days when I got the error message, I dragged it from the dvd and replaced it and nothing changed (okay, I know, I needed a new modem but I didn't realize that then, I was trying everything)
My question is, I have the folder with i386 saved on a DVD, is this something I could use to replace files at some time in the future?
When I had WIN 98 (I actually got so I knew a little bit about) there was a scan one could do, showing if any of the window files were bad and needing replacing. If so, you could put in the WIN 98 cd and point it and it would fix it. Or, go online and find the file as a download and replace it. There were also system files on the harddrive (Cab files?) I remember learning on a computer help board how to reinstal Windows (98) throught the cab files and not the restore CD (which was faster, and you didn't lose your program files, etc)
Anyway, is there something I can do, to make sure I have needed WIN XP files I might need? Is the folder I have saved (i386) enough? Should it be saved as a folder (which is what I have) or openned up and saved on a DVD that way? Is there a scan I can do that checks the WIN XP files on my computer, and if any are bad/missing I could use the DVD to replace them (or find them somewhere as a download online)?
Hope my question(s) make sense, I'm not always sure I really know what I want or mean (LOL)
In a way it amazes me that I can even "talk" computer.
I was thinking of contacting Dell and asking if I could buy a restore CD for Win XP (my computer) but I know someone who tried to get a part (a fan) for her computer from them, and they wouldn't sell itto her because her guarantee/warrenty had run out and she'd have to renew that before they'd sell her a part.
If I can make a backup DVD ( cds are apparently too small) of my system while it is working, that might be the same?

Thanks,
Carrie
 
RE: Can I save my system files on a DVD?

You should have a Recovery Partition on your Hard drive.
The comp manufacturer is required to either give your an XP disk, or include
a recovery partition, for you to make recovery disks from.

Contact the manufacturer to find out how, as they vary in methods.

To check files> sfc /scannow
This will check, and attempt to repair from within the existing install.
--
Mad Mike


"Carrie" wrote:

> Just spent the last few days getting an error message on dialup (I wrote about in another post, resolved by putting in a new modem) but got me to thinking...
> When I got my DELL XPS 400 (has Win XP "media edition" I think is "professional"?) I didn't get a restore or backup WIN cd with it. Apparently they stopped giving them with it, and said you don't need it, the restore files are built in.
> After having the problem with error message, involving a system file (though replacing the modem fixed it, the file involved was in drivers IN the system files) I'm wondering if and how I can save the system files?
> I had tried this before, the folder i386. It's too big for a cd so I saved it on a DVD.
> But, the past few days when I got the error message, I dragged it from the dvd and replaced it and nothing changed (okay, I know, I needed a new modem but I didn't realize that then, I was trying everything)
> My question is, I have the folder with i386 saved on a DVD, is this something I could use to replace files at some time in the future?
> When I had WIN 98 (I actually got so I knew a little bit about) there was a scan one could do, showing if any of the window files were bad and needing replacing. If so, you could put in the WIN 98 cd and point it and it would fix it. Or, go online and find the file as a download and replace it. There were also system files on the harddrive (Cab files?) I remember learning on a computer help board how to reinstal Windows (98) throught the cab files and not the restore CD (which was faster, and you didn't lose your program files, etc)
> Anyway, is there something I can do, to make sure I have needed WIN XP files I might need? Is the folder I have saved (i386) enough? Should it be saved as a folder (which is what I have) or openned up and saved on a DVD that way? Is there a scan I can do that checks the WIN XP files on my computer, and if any are bad/missing I could use the DVD to replace them (or find them somewhere as a download online)?
> Hope my question(s) make sense, I'm not always sure I really know what I want or mean (LOL)
> In a way it amazes me that I can even "talk" computer.
> I was thinking of contacting Dell and asking if I could buy a restore CD for Win XP (my computer) but I know someone who tried to get a part (a fan) for her computer from them, and they wouldn't sell itto her because her guarantee/warrenty had run out and she'd have to renew that before they'd sell her a part.
> If I can make a backup DVD ( cds are apparently too small) of my system while it is working, that might be the same?
>
> Thanks,
> Carrie
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?

Thanks, I'll look into it.
I wish now I had complained to Dell at the time, or just asked about it.
I've talked to others who got computers from them and didn't get backup CDs, either.
One of my daughers got a Dell computer a year before me and got a CD with it.
This is the first Dell I bought, and maybe my last (LOL)


"JS" <@> wrote in message news:Otb%23b7MHJHA.4296@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
You can use "Image Backup" software to make a complete backup of your Windows partition (usually the C: drive). Image backups are stored in a compressed image file which is about 40% less in size than the amount of space used by the Windows partition (pagefile is excluded from a backup). You can also specify the file size break point, so for instance if a full image backup creates an image file of say 8GB the beak point can be set to 4GB resulting in a split file of 4 GB each which then can be saved to a DVD or optionally during the Image backup you can specify the DVD drive as the destination and create the backup directly to DVD media.

Most image backup software also allows you to extract a file or folder (from the image backup file) back to your Windows partition. This way you can restore what you need (as long as a file is not in use (locked) by Windows.

Norton Ghost - has a 30 day trial available
(Trial does not allow you to create a Bootable Restore CD AFAK)
http://www.symantec.com/norton/products/overview.jsp?pcid=br&pvid=ghost14
Product Review "Symantec's 14th Ghost":
http://www.softpedia.com/reviews/windows/Norton-Ghost--Review-78775.shtml

True Image - has a 15 day trial version available,
(Trial version can create a Restore CD, but I have not verified this yet)
http://www.acronis.com/homecomputing/products/trueimage/

JS
http://www.pagestart.com

"Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message news:OlhzhjMHJHA.4564@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
Just spent the last few days getting an error message on dialup (I wrote about in another post, resolved by putting in a new modem) but got me to thinking...
When I got my DELL XPS 400 (has Win XP "media edition" I think is "professional"?) I didn't get a restore or backup WIN cd with it. Apparently they stopped giving them with it, and said you don't need it, the restore files are built in.
After having the problem with error message, involving a system file (though replacing the modem fixed it, the file involved was in drivers IN the system files) I'm wondering if and how I can save the system files?
I had tried this before, the folder i386. It's too big for a cd so I saved it on a DVD.
But, the past few days when I got the error message, I dragged it from the dvd and replaced it and nothing changed (okay, I know, I needed a new modem but I didn't realize that then, I was trying everything)
My question is, I have the folder with i386 saved on a DVD, is this something I could use to replace files at some time in the future?
When I had WIN 98 (I actually got so I knew a little bit about) there was a scan one could do, showing if any of the window files were bad and needing replacing. If so, you could put in the WIN 98 cd and point it and it would fix it. Or, go online and find the file as a download and replace it. There were also system files on the harddrive (Cab files?) I remember learning on a computer help board how to reinstal Windows (98) throught the cab files and not the restore CD (which was faster, and you didn't lose your program files, etc)
Anyway, is there something I can do, to make sure I have needed WIN XP files I might need? Is the folder I have saved (i386) enough? Should it be saved as a folder (which is what I have) or openned up and saved on a DVD that way? Is there a scan I can do that checks the WIN XP files on my computer, and if any are bad/missing I could use the DVD to replace them (or find them somewhere as a download online)?
Hope my question(s) make sense, I'm not always sure I really know what I want or mean (LOL)
In a way it amazes me that I can even "talk" computer.
I was thinking of contacting Dell and asking if I could buy a restore CD for Win XP (my computer) but I know someone who tried to get a part (a fan) for her computer from them, and they wouldn't sell itto her because her guarantee/warrenty had run out and she'd have to renew that before they'd sell her a part.
If I can make a backup DVD ( cds are apparently too small) of my system while it is working, that might be the same?

Thanks,
Carrie
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?


"Mick Murphy" <MickMurphy@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:697ABD99-BEE5-40AE-B739-1A5A0D2885D2@microsoft.com...
> You should have a Recovery Partition on your Hard drive.
> The comp manufacturer is required to either give your an XP disk, or
> include
> a recovery partition, for you to make recovery disks from.
>
> Contact the manufacturer to find out how, as they vary in methods.
>
> To check files> sfc /scannow
> This will check, and attempt to repair from within the existing install.

Doesn't work for me
I put it in RUN it starts to check and says "files that are required for
WIndows to run properly must be copied to the DLL cache. Insert your Win XP
Pro CD-ROM"
I saw this before and looked in google and found various websites/groups
people were asking about this on. One place said to change a registry
setting so it will look in the C drive (the i386 folder, I think?) I
followed the directions to find the reg entry, but it wasn't there the way
the person said. I don't have the paper I wrote it on now (spent the weekend
trying to get my computer to go online and had papers and stuff all over) it
was in software>microsoft> whatever. Mine didn't have what it said it would,
to click on and change to look in the C drive for the file. The scan doesn't
seem to have a browse (to point it where the files might be) like other
programs like it.
If Idon't have a CD with WIN XP files on it, how can I get the file
checker to check where they are on my C drive?
Are the files (for WIndows) in the i386 folder? (I had seen that file
before but never realized what it was and keep reading about it for the past
few days)


> --
> Mad Mike
>
>
> "Carrie" wrote:
>
>> Just spent the last few days getting an error message on dialup (I wrote
>> about in another post, resolved by putting in a new modem) but got me to
>> thinking...
>> When I got my DELL XPS 400 (has Win XP "media edition" I think is
>> "professional"?) I didn't get a restore or backup WIN cd with it.
>> Apparently they stopped giving them with it, and said you don't need it,
>> the restore files are built in.
>> After having the problem with error message, involving a system file
>> (though replacing the modem fixed it, the file involved was in drivers IN
>> the system files) I'm wondering if and how I can save the system files?
>> I had tried this before, the folder i386. It's too big for a cd so I
>> saved it on a DVD.
>> But, the past few days when I got the error message, I dragged it from
>> the dvd and replaced it and nothing changed (okay, I know, I needed a new
>> modem but I didn't realize that then, I was trying everything)
>> My question is, I have the folder with i386 saved on a DVD, is this
>> something I could use to replace files at some time in the future?
>> When I had WIN 98 (I actually got so I knew a little bit about) there
>> was a scan one could do, showing if any of the window files were bad and
>> needing replacing. If so, you could put in the WIN 98 cd and point it and
>> it would fix it. Or, go online and find the file as a download and
>> replace it. There were also system files on the harddrive (Cab files?) I
>> remember learning on a computer help board how to reinstal Windows (98)
>> throught the cab files and not the restore CD (which was faster, and you
>> didn't lose your program files, etc)
>> Anyway, is there something I can do, to make sure I have needed WIN XP
>> files I might need? Is the folder I have saved (i386) enough? Should it
>> be saved as a folder (which is what I have) or openned up and saved on a
>> DVD that way? Is there a scan I can do that checks the WIN XP files on
>> my computer, and if any are bad/missing I could use the DVD to replace
>> them (or find them somewhere as a download online)?
>> Hope my question(s) make sense, I'm not always sure I really know
>> what I want or mean (LOL)
>> In a way it amazes me that I can even "talk" computer.
>> I was thinking of contacting Dell and asking if I could buy a restore
>> CD for Win XP (my computer) but I know someone who tried to get a part (a
>> fan) for her computer from them, and they wouldn't sell itto her because
>> her guarantee/warrenty had run out and she'd have to renew that before
>> they'd sell her a part.
>> If I can make a backup DVD ( cds are apparently too small) of my
>> system while it is working, that might be the same?
>>
>> Thanks,
>> Carrie
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?

Dell is not the only one who does not provide a CD,
it's a bad practice and Microsoft should not allow it.

JS

"Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message news:uAcXZGOHJHA.1160@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
Thanks, I'll look into it.
I wish now I had complained to Dell at the time, or just asked about it.
I've talked to others who got computers from them and didn't get backup CDs, either.
One of my daughers got a Dell computer a year before me and got a CD with it.
This is the first Dell I bought, and maybe my last (LOL)


"JS" <@> wrote in message news:Otb%23b7MHJHA.4296@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
You can use "Image Backup" software to make a complete backup of your Windows partition (usually the C: drive). Image backups are stored in a compressed image file which is about 40% less in size than the amount of space used by the Windows partition (pagefile is excluded from a backup). You can also specify the file size break point, so for instance if a full image backup creates an image file of say 8GB the beak point can be set to 4GB resulting in a split file of 4 GB each which then can be saved to a DVD or optionally during the Image backup you can specify the DVD drive as the destination and create the backup directly to DVD media.

Most image backup software also allows you to extract a file or folder (from the image backup file) back to your Windows partition. This way you can restore what you need (as long as a file is not in use (locked) by Windows.

Norton Ghost - has a 30 day trial available
(Trial does not allow you to create a Bootable Restore CD AFAK)
http://www.symantec.com/norton/products/overview.jsp?pcid=br&pvid=ghost14
Product Review "Symantec's 14th Ghost":
http://www.softpedia.com/reviews/windows/Norton-Ghost--Review-78775.shtml

True Image - has a 15 day trial version available,
(Trial version can create a Restore CD, but I have not verified this yet)
http://www.acronis.com/homecomputing/products/trueimage/

JS
http://www.pagestart.com

"Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message news:OlhzhjMHJHA.4564@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
Just spent the last few days getting an error message on dialup (I wrote about in another post, resolved by putting in a new modem) but got me to thinking...
When I got my DELL XPS 400 (has Win XP "media edition" I think is "professional"?) I didn't get a restore or backup WIN cd with it. Apparently they stopped giving them with it, and said you don't need it, the restore files are built in.
After having the problem with error message, involving a system file (though replacing the modem fixed it, the file involved was in drivers IN the system files) I'm wondering if and how I can save the system files?
I had tried this before, the folder i386. It's too big for a cd so I saved it on a DVD.
But, the past few days when I got the error message, I dragged it from the dvd and replaced it and nothing changed (okay, I know, I needed a new modem but I didn't realize that then, I was trying everything)
My question is, I have the folder with i386 saved on a DVD, is this something I could use to replace files at some time in the future?
When I had WIN 98 (I actually got so I knew a little bit about) there was a scan one could do, showing if any of the window files were bad and needing replacing. If so, you could put in the WIN 98 cd and point it and it would fix it. Or, go online and find the file as a download and replace it. There were also system files on the harddrive (Cab files?) I remember learning on a computer help board how to reinstal Windows (98) throught the cab files and not the restore CD (which was faster, and you didn't lose your program files, etc)
Anyway, is there something I can do, to make sure I have needed WIN XP files I might need? Is the folder I have saved (i386) enough? Should it be saved as a folder (which is what I have) or openned up and saved on a DVD that way? Is there a scan I can do that checks the WIN XP files on my computer, and if any are bad/missing I could use the DVD to replace them (or find them somewhere as a download online)?
Hope my question(s) make sense, I'm not always sure I really know what I want or mean (LOL)
In a way it amazes me that I can even "talk" computer.
I was thinking of contacting Dell and asking if I could buy a restore CD for Win XP (my computer) but I know someone who tried to get a part (a fan) for her computer from them, and they wouldn't sell itto her because her guarantee/warrenty had run out and she'd have to renew that before they'd sell her a part.
If I can make a backup DVD ( cds are apparently too small) of my system while it is working, that might be the same?

Thanks,
Carrie
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?

If you call Dell and tell them your Service Tag # they will most likely send you a set of disk.
HP and other typical venders wont even think about giving disk.
Dell is not perfect, but you generally get more PC for the money from them.

PS don't send posts to the news groups in HTML format, use plain text please.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
"Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message news:uAcXZGOHJHA.1160@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
Thanks, I'll look into it.
I wish now I had complained to Dell at the time, or just asked about it.
I've talked to others who got computers from them and didn't get backup CDs, either.
One of my daughers got a Dell computer a year before me and got a CD with it.
This is the first Dell I bought, and maybe my last (LOL)


"JS" <@> wrote in message news:Otb%23b7MHJHA.4296@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
You can use "Image Backup" software to make a complete backup of your Windows partition (usually the
C: drive). Image backups are stored in a compressed image file which is about 40% less in size than
the amount of space used by the Windows partition (pagefile is excluded from a backup). You can also
specify the file size break point, so for instance if a full image backup creates an image file of
say 8GB the beak point can be set to 4GB resulting in a split file of 4 GB each which then can be
saved to a DVD or optionally during the Image backup you can specify the DVD drive as the
destination and create the backup directly to DVD media.

Most image backup software also allows you to extract a file or folder (from the image backup file)
back to your Windows partition. This way you can restore what you need (as long as a file is not in
use (locked) by Windows.

Norton Ghost - has a 30 day trial available
(Trial does not allow you to create a Bootable Restore CD AFAK)
http://www.symantec.com/norton/products/overview.jsp?pcid=br&pvid=ghost14
Product Review "Symantec's 14th Ghost":
http://www.softpedia.com/reviews/windows/Norton-Ghost--Review-78775.shtml

True Image - has a 15 day trial version available,
(Trial version can create a Restore CD, but I have not verified this yet)
http://www.acronis.com/homecomputing/products/trueimage/

JS
http://www.pagestart.com

"Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message news:OlhzhjMHJHA.4564@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
Just spent the last few days getting an error message on dialup (I wrote about in another post,
resolved by putting in a new modem) but got me to thinking...
When I got my DELL XPS 400 (has Win XP "media edition" I think is "professional"?) I didn't get a
restore or backup WIN cd with it. Apparently they stopped giving them with it, and said you don't
need it, the restore files are built in.
After having the problem with error message, involving a system file (though replacing the modem
fixed it, the file involved was in drivers IN the system files) I'm wondering if and how I can save
the system files?
I had tried this before, the folder i386. It's too big for a cd so I saved it on a DVD.
But, the past few days when I got the error message, I dragged it from the dvd and replaced it and
nothing changed (okay, I know, I needed a new modem but I didn't realize that then, I was trying
everything)
My question is, I have the folder with i386 saved on a DVD, is this something I could use to
replace files at some time in the future?
When I had WIN 98 (I actually got so I knew a little bit about) there was a scan one could do,
showing if any of the window files were bad and needing replacing. If so, you could put in the WIN
98 cd and point it and it would fix it. Or, go online and find the file as a download and replace
it. There were also system files on the harddrive (Cab files?) I remember learning on a computer
help board how to reinstal Windows (98) throught the cab files and not the restore CD (which was
faster, and you didn't lose your program files, etc)
Anyway, is there something I can do, to make sure I have needed WIN XP files I might need? Is the
folder I have saved (i386) enough? Should it be saved as a folder (which is what I have) or openned
up and saved on a DVD that way? Is there a scan I can do that checks the WIN XP files on my
computer, and if any are bad/missing I could use the DVD to replace them (or find them somewhere as
a download online)?
Hope my question(s) make sense, I'm not always sure I really know what I want or mean (LOL)
In a way it amazes me that I can even "talk" computer.
I was thinking of contacting Dell and asking if I could buy a restore CD for Win XP (my
computer) but I know someone who tried to get a part (a fan) for her computer from them, and they
wouldn't sell itto her because her guarantee/warrenty had run out and she'd have to renew that
before they'd sell her a part.
If I can make a backup DVD ( cds are apparently too small) of my system while it is working, that
might be the same?

Thanks,
Carrie
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?

I've changed your post format to plain text (not HTML) format, which is
customary for newsgroups, Carrie (it's an option in OE). I had a couple
of suggestions:

1) You can get Acronis True Image 11 to make partition backups (using
imaging) to another drive, as an excellent system backup (or restore) plan.
Much better than simply using CDs or DVDs, I feel (plus it has nearly
unlimited space, and is much faster)

2) In addition to using System Restore (if needed), you can also use a
freebie program called ERUNT, that backs up (or restores) the registry - it
works just like scanreg /restore did in Windows98.

3) If your Dell is like some other Dells, as a last recourse, there is
always the fallback option of using the Dell System Restore option to roll
the entire system back to the state it was in when the computer was shipped,
but this is a pretty drastic restoration method (you'll lose everything
added since). (It's hidden on your hard drive in a hidden partition, and
can be invoked at boot up by hitting the right keys).


"Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message
news:OlhzhjMHJHA.4564@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
Just spent the last few days getting an error message on dialup (I wrote
about in another post, resolved by putting in a new modem) but got me to
thinking...
When I got my DELL XPS 400 (has Win XP "media edition" I think is
"professional"?) I didn't get a restore or backup WIN cd with it. Apparently
they stopped giving them with it, and said you don't need it, the restore
files are built in.
After having the problem with error message, involving a system file
(though replacing the modem fixed it, the file involved was in drivers IN
the system files) I'm wondering if and how I can save the system files?
I had tried this before, the folder i386. It's too big for a cd so I saved
it on a DVD.
But, the past few days when I got the error message, I dragged it from the
dvd and replaced it and nothing changed (okay, I know, I needed a new modem
but I didn't realize that then, I was trying everything)
My question is, I have the folder with i386 saved on a DVD, is this
something I could use to replace files at some time in the future?
When I had WIN 98 (I actually got so I knew a little bit about) there was a
scan one could do, showing if any of the window files were bad and needing
replacing. If so, you could put in the WIN 98 cd and point it and it would
fix it. Or, go online and find the file as a download and replace it. There
were also system files on the harddrive (Cab files?) I remember learning on
a computer help board how to reinstal Windows (98) throught the cab files
and not the restore CD (which was faster, and you didn't lose your program
files, etc)
Anyway, is there something I can do, to make sure I have needed WIN XP
files I might need? Is the folder I have saved (i386) enough? Should it be
saved as a folder (which is what I have) or openned up and saved on a DVD
that way? Is there a scan I can do that checks the WIN XP files on my
computer, and if any are bad/missing I could use the DVD to replace them (or
find them somewhere as a download online)?
Hope my question(s) make sense, I'm not always sure I really know what I
want or mean (LOL)
In a way it amazes me that I can even "talk" computer.
I was thinking of contacting Dell and asking if I could buy a restore CD
for Win XP (my computer) but I know someone who tried to get a part (a fan)
for her computer from them, and they wouldn't sell itto her because her
guarantee/warrenty had run out and she'd have to renew that before they'd
sell her a part.
If I can make a backup DVD ( cds are apparently too small) of my system
while it is working, that might be the same?

Thanks,
Carrie
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?

On Mon, 22 Sep 2008 13:30:07 -0600, "Bill in Co."
<not_really_here@earthlink.net> wrote:

>3) If your Dell is like some other Dells, as a last recourse, there is
>always the fallback option of using the Dell System Restore option to roll
>the entire system back to the state it was in when the computer was shipped,
>but this is a pretty drastic restoration method (you'll lose everything
>added since). (It's hidden on your hard drive in a hidden partition, and
>can be invoked at boot up by hitting the right keys).

The last few new Dell systems I helped friends set up came with a
recovery disc.
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?


"JS" <@> wrote in message news:%23q2sWgOHJHA.4448@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
Dell is not the only one who does not provide a CD,
it's a bad practice and Microsoft should not allow it.

JS

My daughter recently got an emachine and didn't get one with it.
I've seen online people who didn't get one and contacted Dell about it and had to pay to get one.



"Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message news:uAcXZGOHJHA.1160@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
Thanks, I'll look into it.
I wish now I had complained to Dell at the time, or just asked about it.
I've talked to others who got computers from them and didn't get backup CDs, either.
One of my daughers got a Dell computer a year before me and got a CD with it.
This is the first Dell I bought, and maybe my last (LOL)


"JS" <@> wrote in message news:Otb%23b7MHJHA.4296@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
You can use "Image Backup" software to make a complete backup of your Windows partition (usually the C: drive). Image backups are stored in a compressed image file which is about 40% less in size than the amount of space used by the Windows partition (pagefile is excluded from a backup). You can also specify the file size break point, so for instance if a full image backup creates an image file of say 8GB the beak point can be set to 4GB resulting in a split file of 4 GB each which then can be saved to a DVD or optionally during the Image backup you can specify the DVD drive as the destination and create the backup directly to DVD media.

Most image backup software also allows you to extract a file or folder (from the image backup file) back to your Windows partition. This way you can restore what you need (as long as a file is not in use (locked) by Windows.

Norton Ghost - has a 30 day trial available
(Trial does not allow you to create a Bootable Restore CD AFAK)
http://www.symantec.com/norton/products/overview.jsp?pcid=br&pvid=ghost14
Product Review "Symantec's 14th Ghost":
http://www.softpedia.com/reviews/windows/Norton-Ghost--Review-78775.shtml

True Image - has a 15 day trial version available,
(Trial version can create a Restore CD, but I have not verified this yet)
http://www.acronis.com/homecomputing/products/trueimage/

JS
http://www.pagestart.com

"Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message news:OlhzhjMHJHA.4564@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
Just spent the last few days getting an error message on dialup (I wrote about in another post, resolved by putting in a new modem) but got me to thinking...
When I got my DELL XPS 400 (has Win XP "media edition" I think is "professional"?) I didn't get a restore or backup WIN cd with it. Apparently they stopped giving them with it, and said you don't need it, the restore files are built in.
After having the problem with error message, involving a system file (though replacing the modem fixed it, the file involved was in drivers IN the system files) I'm wondering if and how I can save the system files?
I had tried this before, the folder i386. It's too big for a cd so I saved it on a DVD.
But, the past few days when I got the error message, I dragged it from the dvd and replaced it and nothing changed (okay, I know, I needed a new modem but I didn't realize that then, I was trying everything)
My question is, I have the folder with i386 saved on a DVD, is this something I could use to replace files at some time in the future?
When I had WIN 98 (I actually got so I knew a little bit about) there was a scan one could do, showing if any of the window files were bad and needing replacing. If so, you could put in the WIN 98 cd and point it and it would fix it. Or, go online and find the file as a download and replace it. There were also system files on the harddrive (Cab files?) I remember learning on a computer help board how to reinstal Windows (98) throught the cab files and not the restore CD (which was faster, and you didn't lose your program files, etc)
Anyway, is there something I can do, to make sure I have needed WIN XP files I might need? Is the folder I have saved (i386) enough? Should it be saved as a folder (which is what I have) or openned up and saved on a DVD that way? Is there a scan I can do that checks the WIN XP files on my computer, and if any are bad/missing I could use the DVD to replace them (or find them somewhere as a download online)?
Hope my question(s) make sense, I'm not always sure I really know what I want or mean (LOL)
In a way it amazes me that I can even "talk" computer.
I was thinking of contacting Dell and asking if I could buy a restore CD for Win XP (my computer) but I know someone who tried to get a part (a fan) for her computer from them, and they wouldn't sell itto her because her guarantee/warrenty had run out and she'd have to renew that before they'd sell her a part.
If I can make a backup DVD ( cds are apparently too small) of my system while it is working, that might be the same?

Thanks,
Carrie
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?


"Richard in AZ" <me@mailinator.com> wrote in message
news:eZPGdhOHJHA.1716@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
> If you call Dell and tell them your Service Tag # they will most likely
> send you a set of disk.
> HP and other typical venders wont even think about giving disk.
> Dell is not perfect, but you generally get more PC for the money from
> them.

I could try, but one of my daughters has a Dell and they wouldn't sell
her a fan for it because the warranty had run out and she didn't want to buy
another one just to get a part.

>
> PS don't send posts to the news groups in HTML format, use plain text
> please.

I don't understand this, I'm just clicking reply and answering on the
post that comes up. In Outlook Express. I clicked on FORMAT and it says
plain text.
I don't know how to send html emails, if I did, it was somehow by accident
or maybe the one I was responding to set it up like that?
If you tell me how to do it, I'll make sure I don't.
Thanks

> - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
> "Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message
> news:uAcXZGOHJHA.1160@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
> Thanks, I'll look into it.
> I wish now I had complained to Dell at the time, or just asked about it.
> I've talked to others who got computers from them and didn't get backup
> CDs, either.
> One of my daughers got a Dell computer a year before me and got a CD with
> it.
> This is the first Dell I bought, and maybe my last (LOL)
>
>
> "JS" <@> wrote in message news:Otb%23b7MHJHA.4296@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
> You can use "Image Backup" software to make a complete backup of your
> Windows partition (usually the
> C: drive). Image backups are stored in a compressed image file which is
> about 40% less in size than
> the amount of space used by the Windows partition (pagefile is excluded
> from a backup). You can also
> specify the file size break point, so for instance if a full image backup
> creates an image file of
> say 8GB the beak point can be set to 4GB resulting in a split file of 4 GB
> each which then can be
> saved to a DVD or optionally during the Image backup you can specify the
> DVD drive as the
> destination and create the backup directly to DVD media.
>
> Most image backup software also allows you to extract a file or folder
> (from the image backup file)
> back to your Windows partition. This way you can restore what you need (as
> long as a file is not in
> use (locked) by Windows.
>
> Norton Ghost - has a 30 day trial available
> (Trial does not allow you to create a Bootable Restore CD AFAK)
> http://www.symantec.com/norton/products/overview.jsp?pcid=br&pvid=ghost14
> Product Review "Symantec's 14th Ghost":
> http://www.softpedia.com/reviews/windows/Norton-Ghost--Review-78775.shtml
>
> True Image - has a 15 day trial version available,
> (Trial version can create a Restore CD, but I have not verified this yet)
> http://www.acronis.com/homecomputing/products/trueimage/
>
> JS
> http://www.pagestart.com
>
> "Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message
> news:OlhzhjMHJHA.4564@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
> Just spent the last few days getting an error message on dialup (I wrote
> about in another post,
> resolved by putting in a new modem) but got me to thinking...
> When I got my DELL XPS 400 (has Win XP "media edition" I think is
> "professional"?) I didn't get a
> restore or backup WIN cd with it. Apparently they stopped giving them with
> it, and said you don't
> need it, the restore files are built in.
> After having the problem with error message, involving a system file
> (though replacing the modem
> fixed it, the file involved was in drivers IN the system files) I'm
> wondering if and how I can save
> the system files?
> I had tried this before, the folder i386. It's too big for a cd so I saved
> it on a DVD.
> But, the past few days when I got the error message, I dragged it from the
> dvd and replaced it and
> nothing changed (okay, I know, I needed a new modem but I didn't realize
> that then, I was trying
> everything)
> My question is, I have the folder with i386 saved on a DVD, is this
> something I could use to
> replace files at some time in the future?
> When I had WIN 98 (I actually got so I knew a little bit about) there was
> a scan one could do,
> showing if any of the window files were bad and needing replacing. If so,
> you could put in the WIN
> 98 cd and point it and it would fix it. Or, go online and find the file as
> a download and replace
> it. There were also system files on the harddrive (Cab files?) I remember
> learning on a computer
> help board how to reinstal Windows (98) throught the cab files and not the
> restore CD (which was
> faster, and you didn't lose your program files, etc)
> Anyway, is there something I can do, to make sure I have needed WIN XP
> files I might need? Is the
> folder I have saved (i386) enough? Should it be saved as a folder (which
> is what I have) or openned
> up and saved on a DVD that way? Is there a scan I can do that checks the
> WIN XP files on my
> computer, and if any are bad/missing I could use the DVD to replace them
> (or find them somewhere as
> a download online)?
> Hope my question(s) make sense, I'm not always sure I really know what
> I want or mean (LOL)
> In a way it amazes me that I can even "talk" computer.
> I was thinking of contacting Dell and asking if I could buy a restore
> CD for Win XP (my
> computer) but I know someone who tried to get a part (a fan) for her
> computer from them, and they
> wouldn't sell itto her because her guarantee/warrenty had run out and
> she'd have to renew that
> before they'd sell her a part.
> If I can make a backup DVD ( cds are apparently too small) of my system
> while it is working, that
> might be the same?
>
> Thanks,
> Carrie
>
>
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?


"Bill in Co." <not_really_here@earthlink.net> wrote in message
news:e$$uimOHJHA.1304@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
> I've changed your post format to plain text (not HTML) format, which is
> customary for newsgroups, Carrie (it's an option in OE). I had a couple
> of suggestions:

Oh, it says rich text (html) in the format?
I didn't set it that way on purpose. Usually if I click to reply to
a post that's in that mine tries to respond the same and a box comes up
asking if I want to send it that way and I click NO and it changes back to
plain text.
So, if it got sent in html (rich text) I have no idea why.

>
> 1) You can get Acronis True Image 11 to make partition backups (using
> imaging) to another drive, as an excellent system backup (or restore)
> plan. Much better than simply using CDs or DVDs, I feel (plus it has
> nearly unlimited space, and is much faster)
>
> 2) In addition to using System Restore (if needed), you can also use a
> freebie program called ERUNT, that backs up (or restores) the registry -
> it works just like scanreg /restore did in Windows98.
>
> 3) If your Dell is like some other Dells, as a last recourse, there is
> always the fallback option of using the Dell System Restore option to roll
> the entire system back to the state it was in when the computer was
> shipped, but this is a pretty drastic restoration method (you'll lose
> everything added since). (It's hidden on your hard drive in a hidden
> partition, and can be invoked at boot up by hitting the right keys).

I thought here was something like this, but I didn't know where it was or
how to find it.
With the WIN 98 ones I've had I either used a boot up floppy or restore
CD.
When I got this Dell, I had a floppy drive put in and have never used it
(LOL) I thought I could go over my old floppies and save stuff, put it on
CDs but they don't seem to pick up or open in this.

>
>
> "Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message
> news:OlhzhjMHJHA.4564@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
> Just spent the last few days getting an error message on dialup (I wrote
> about in another post, resolved by putting in a new modem) but got me to
> thinking...
> When I got my DELL XPS 400 (has Win XP "media edition" I think is
> "professional"?) I didn't get a restore or backup WIN cd with it.
> Apparently they stopped giving them with it, and said you don't need it,
> the restore files are built in.
> After having the problem with error message, involving a system file
> (though replacing the modem fixed it, the file involved was in drivers IN
> the system files) I'm wondering if and how I can save the system files?
> I had tried this before, the folder i386. It's too big for a cd so I saved
> it on a DVD.
> But, the past few days when I got the error message, I dragged it from the
> dvd and replaced it and nothing changed (okay, I know, I needed a new
> modem but I didn't realize that then, I was trying everything)
> My question is, I have the folder with i386 saved on a DVD, is this
> something I could use to replace files at some time in the future?
> When I had WIN 98 (I actually got so I knew a little bit about) there was
> a scan one could do, showing if any of the window files were bad and
> needing replacing. If so, you could put in the WIN 98 cd and point it and
> it would fix it. Or, go online and find the file as a download and replace
> it. There were also system files on the harddrive (Cab files?) I remember
> learning on a computer help board how to reinstal Windows (98) throught
> the cab files and not the restore CD (which was faster, and you didn't
> lose your program files, etc)
> Anyway, is there something I can do, to make sure I have needed WIN XP
> files I might need? Is the folder I have saved (i386) enough? Should it be
> saved as a folder (which is what I have) or openned up and saved on a DVD
> that way? Is there a scan I can do that checks the WIN XP files on my
> computer, and if any are bad/missing I could use the DVD to replace them
> (or find them somewhere as a download online)?
> Hope my question(s) make sense, I'm not always sure I really know what
> I want or mean (LOL)
> In a way it amazes me that I can even "talk" computer.
> I was thinking of contacting Dell and asking if I could buy a restore
> CD for Win XP (my computer) but I know someone who tried to get a part (a
> fan) for her computer from them, and they wouldn't sell itto her because
> her guarantee/warrenty had run out and she'd have to renew that before
> they'd sell her a part.
> If I can make a backup DVD ( cds are apparently too small) of my system
> while it is working, that might be the same?
>
> Thanks,
> Carrie
>
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?


"Paul Montgomery" <i.m.nonnymous@NOSPAMgmail.com> wrote in message
news:nbtfd49no39kh9o0sqlr5kadbvq8dfpss6@4ax.com...
> On Mon, 22 Sep 2008 13:30:07 -0600, "Bill in Co."
> <not_really_here@earthlink.net> wrote:
>
>>3) If your Dell is like some other Dells, as a last recourse, there is
>>always the fallback option of using the Dell System Restore option to roll
>>the entire system back to the state it was in when the computer was
>>shipped,
>>but this is a pretty drastic restoration method (you'll lose everything
>>added since). (It's hidden on your hard drive in a hidden partition, and
>>can be invoked at boot up by hitting the right keys).
>
> The last few new Dell systems I helped friends set up came with a
> recovery disc.

Mine had a paper printout OF a recovery disk and said one wasn't included
because the files are all built in.
But, getting to the files (for full recovery) seems to be a secret?
I know that is drastic, but sometimes it's the only way. And, of course if
you can't get Windows to load, can you still use it?

I've seen the new PC commericals where people say "I'm a PC person..." (I
suppose instead of a MAC) Supposedly MACs don't have the problems PCs do.
But then, people with MACs probably don't have groups of nice people who
help and share and others can learn from (LOL)
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?


"Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message
news:efFJabPHJHA.4272@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
>
>>
>> PS don't send posts to the news groups in HTML format, use plain text
>> please.
>
> I don't understand this, I'm just clicking reply and answering on the
> post that comes up. In Outlook Express. I clicked on FORMAT and it says
> plain text.

I believe it's located at Tools - Options - Send - News Sending Format

Select Plain Text
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?

Carrie wrote:
> I could try, but one of my daughters has a Dell and they wouldn't sell
> her a fan for it because the warranty had run out and she didn't want to buy
> another one just to get a part.
> <snip>

Not sure why that happened with your order, but the bezel (plastic
around the LCD) broke on mine and I just ordered one about 3 weeks ago.
5$+shipping. Its on my PC now, all fixed up.
I googled the internet and found the part number after a bit of research
and just processed the order on the web. I found a link for parts and
service. No phone call. And my warranty ran our 2 years ago.
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?

I believe that paper printout has instructions for making a recovery
dvd/cd(s). On some Dell's I have worked on, the program to create the
recovery disk is on the start menu but will be erased after you create your
disk.
Louis

"Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message
news:evQ4DgPHJHA.1088@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
>
> "Paul Montgomery" <i.m.nonnymous@NOSPAMgmail.com> wrote in message
> news:nbtfd49no39kh9o0sqlr5kadbvq8dfpss6@4ax.com...
> > On Mon, 22 Sep 2008 13:30:07 -0600, "Bill in Co."
> > <not_really_here@earthlink.net> wrote:
> >
> >>3) If your Dell is like some other Dells, as a last recourse, there is
> >>always the fallback option of using the Dell System Restore option to
roll
> >>the entire system back to the state it was in when the computer was
> >>shipped,
> >>but this is a pretty drastic restoration method (you'll lose everything
> >>added since). (It's hidden on your hard drive in a hidden partition,
and
> >>can be invoked at boot up by hitting the right keys).
> >
> > The last few new Dell systems I helped friends set up came with a
> > recovery disc.
>
> Mine had a paper printout OF a recovery disk and said one wasn't included
> because the files are all built in.
> But, getting to the files (for full recovery) seems to be a secret?
> I know that is drastic, but sometimes it's the only way. And, of course if
> you can't get Windows to load, can you still use it?
>
> I've seen the new PC commericals where people say "I'm a PC person..." (I
> suppose instead of a MAC) Supposedly MACs don't have the problems PCs do.
> But then, people with MACs probably don't have groups of nice people who
> help and share and others can learn from (LOL)
>
>
>
>
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?

Carrie wrote:
> "Bill in Co." <not_really_here@earthlink.net> wrote in message
> news:e$$uimOHJHA.1304@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
>> I've changed your post format to plain text (not HTML) format, which is
>> customary for newsgroups, Carrie (it's an option in OE). I had a
>> couple
>> of suggestions:
>
> Oh, it says rich text (html) in the format?
> I didn't set it that way on purpose. Usually if I click to reply to
> a post that's in that mine tries to respond the same and a box comes up
> asking if I want to send it that way and I click NO and it changes back to
> plain text.
> So, if it got sent in html (rich text) I have no idea why.

Well, just make sure it's only set that way for the OE News option (you
probably won't want it that way (plain text) for the Mail option).

>>
>> 1) You can get Acronis True Image (ATI) to make partition backups (using
>> imaging) to another drive, as an excellent system backup (or restore)
>> plan. Much better than simply using CDs or DVDs, I feel (plus it has
>> nearly unlimited space, and is much faster)

And if you buy this (ATI) in the package, it already comes on a bootable CD,
which can be handy sometimes.

>> 2) In addition to using System Restore (if needed), you can also use a
>> freebie program called ERUNT, that backs up (or restores) the registry -
>> it works just like scanreg /restore did in Windows98.
>>
>> 3) If your Dell is like some other Dells, as a last recourse, there is
>> always the fallback option of using the Dell System Restore option to
>> roll
>> the entire system back to the state it was in when the computer was
>> shipped, but this is a pretty drastic restoration method (you'll lose
>> everything added since). (It's hidden on your hard drive in a hidden
>> partition, and can be invoked at boot up by hitting the right keys).
>
> I thought here was something like this, but I didn't know where it was
> or
> how to find it.
> With the WIN 98 ones I've had I either used a boot up floppy or restore
> CD.
> When I got this Dell, I had a floppy drive put in and have never used it
> (LOL) I thought I could go over my old floppies and save stuff, put it on
> CDs but they don't seem to pick up or open in this.

On my Dell desktop computer, if I boot up while pressing the Ctrl-F11 keys,
that option appears. But again, it's last resort measure, as you'll lose
everything added since the factory shipped it. You can check and see if
it's there, just don't go through with it!

>>
>> "Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message
>> news:OlhzhjMHJHA.4564@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
>> Just spent the last few days getting an error message on dialup (I wrote
>> about in another post, resolved by putting in a new modem) but got me to
>> thinking...
>> When I got my DELL XPS 400 (has Win XP "media edition" I think is
>> "professional"?) I didn't get a restore or backup WIN cd with it.
>> Apparently they stopped giving them with it, and said you don't need it,
>> the restore files are built in.
>> After having the problem with error message, involving a system file
>> (though replacing the modem fixed it, the file involved was in drivers IN
>> the system files) I'm wondering if and how I can save the system files?
>> I had tried this before, the folder i386. It's too big for a cd so I
>> saved
>> it on a DVD.
>> But, the past few days when I got the error message, I dragged it from
>> the
>> dvd and replaced it and nothing changed (okay, I know, I needed a new
>> modem but I didn't realize that then, I was trying everything)
>> My question is, I have the folder with i386 saved on a DVD, is this
>> something I could use to replace files at some time in the future?
>> When I had WIN 98 (I actually got so I knew a little bit about) there was
>> a scan one could do, showing if any of the window files were bad and
>> needing replacing. If so, you could put in the WIN 98 cd and point it and
>> it would fix it. Or, go online and find the file as a download and
>> replace
>> it. There were also system files on the harddrive (Cab files?) I remember
>> learning on a computer help board how to reinstal Windows (98) throught
>> the cab files and not the restore CD (which was faster, and you didn't
>> lose your program files, etc)
>> Anyway, is there something I can do, to make sure I have needed WIN XP
>> files I might need? Is the folder I have saved (i386) enough? Should it
>> be
>> saved as a folder (which is what I have) or openned up and saved on a DVD
>> that way? Is there a scan I can do that checks the WIN XP files on my
>> computer, and if any are bad/missing I could use the DVD to replace them
>> (or find them somewhere as a download online)?
>> Hope my question(s) make sense, I'm not always sure I really know what
>> I want or mean (LOL)
>> In a way it amazes me that I can even "talk" computer.
>> I was thinking of contacting Dell and asking if I could buy a restore
>> CD for Win XP (my computer) but I know someone who tried to get a part (a
>> fan) for her computer from them, and they wouldn't sell itto her because
>> her guarantee/warrenty had run out and she'd have to renew that before
>> they'd sell her a part.
>> If I can make a backup DVD ( cds are apparently too small) of my system
>> while it is working, that might be the same?
>>
>> Thanks,
>> Carrie
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?


"John" <a> wrote in message news:OZIxzyPHJHA.1160@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...
>
> "Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message
> news:efFJabPHJHA.4272@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
>>
>>>
>>> PS don't send posts to the news groups in HTML format, use plain text
>>> please.
>>
>> I don't understand this, I'm just clicking reply and answering on the
>> post that comes up. In Outlook Express. I clicked on FORMAT and it says
>> plain text.
>
> I believe it's located at Tools - Options - Send - News Sending Format

I don't know why it was checked I've never used anything but plain text
once in awhile, if I click on a post that is RTF, my response comes sets
up in that, and it asked me if I want to send it.
I never changed it to html and wasn't aware it's been sending like that.
Computer ghosts?
Thanks for letting me know.

>
> Select Plain Text
>
>
>
>
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?


"Big_Al" <BigAl@md.com> wrote in message
news:%23p$GOEQHJHA.4232@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
> Carrie wrote:
>> I could try, but one of my daughters has a Dell and they wouldn't
>> sell her a fan for it because the warranty had run out and she didn't
>> want to buy another one just to get a part.
>> <snip>
>
> Not sure why that happened with your order, but the bezel (plastic around
> the LCD) broke on mine and I just ordered one about 3 weeks ago.
> 5$+shipping. Its on my PC now, all fixed up.
> I googled the internet and found the part number after a bit of research
> and just processed the order on the web. I found a link for parts and
> service. No phone call. And my warranty ran our 2 years ago.

I know my daughter was really mad for awhile. She probably shouldn't have
called them, but did it like you did.
She called and asked for parts and they wouldn't sell her a fan unless she
bought a warranty again. She talked to others and sent emails.
I told her I didn't think she neede to buy it from Dell (it's a cooling
fan) but she isn't too into computer tech (and works alot so not much free
time) and thought she needed to get the exact replacement one.
I think last I knew, she had written emails to people about it and Dell had
ignored her.
I could probably find out the model of her computer and put it in search
(with replacement fan) and get one.
Just with her working and not using her computer (email) it's easy to just
put it off.
I just ran Belarc advisor on mine a few days ago, and it showed the part
ordering number for Dell (for mine) and even had a link to click on. I don't
need any parts for it, so I don't know if or how it worked.

>
>
>
 
Re: Can I save my system files on a DVD?


"Bill in Co." <not_really_here@earthlink.net> wrote in message
news:eRw2uUQHJHA.3668@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
> Carrie wrote:
>> "Bill in Co." <not_really_here@earthlink.net> wrote in message
>> news:e$$uimOHJHA.1304@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
>>> I've changed your post format to plain text (not HTML) format, which is
>>> customary for newsgroups, Carrie (it's an option in OE). I had a
>>> couple
>>> of suggestions:
>>
>> Oh, it says rich text (html) in the format?
>> I didn't set it that way on purpose. Usually if I click to reply
>> to
>> a post that's in that mine tries to respond the same and a box comes up
>> asking if I want to send it that way and I click NO and it changes back
>> to
>> plain text.
>> So, if it got sent in html (rich text) I have no idea why.
>
> Well, just make sure it's only set that way for the OE News option (you
> probably won't want it that way (plain text) for the Mail option).
>
>>>
>>> 1) You can get Acronis True Image (ATI) to make partition backups (using
>>> imaging) to another drive, as an excellent system backup (or restore)
>>> plan. Much better than simply using CDs or DVDs, I feel (plus it has
>>> nearly unlimited space, and is much faster)
>
> And if you buy this (ATI) in the package, it already comes on a bootable
> CD, which can be handy sometimes.
>
>>> 2) In addition to using System Restore (if needed), you can also use a
>>> freebie program called ERUNT, that backs up (or restores) the registry -
>>> it works just like scanreg /restore did in Windows98.
>>>
>>> 3) If your Dell is like some other Dells, as a last recourse, there is
>>> always the fallback option of using the Dell System Restore option to
>>> roll
>>> the entire system back to the state it was in when the computer was
>>> shipped, but this is a pretty drastic restoration method (you'll lose
>>> everything added since). (It's hidden on your hard drive in a hidden
>>> partition, and can be invoked at boot up by hitting the right keys).
>>
>> I thought here was something like this, but I didn't know where it was
>> or
>> how to find it.
>> With the WIN 98 ones I've had I either used a boot up floppy or restore
>> CD.
>> When I got this Dell, I had a floppy drive put in and have never used
>> it
>> (LOL) I thought I could go over my old floppies and save stuff, put it on
>> CDs but they don't seem to pick up or open in this.
>
> On my Dell desktop computer, if I boot up while pressing the Ctrl-F11
> keys, that option appears. But again, it's last resort measure, as
> you'll lose everything added since the factory shipped it. You can
> check and see if it's there, just don't go through with it!

Thanks
I know, it's a last resort meature. One of my previous ones (HP Brio) had
Win 98 SE and one time I restored it, and things wouldn't set up right
(drivers, etc) so I did it several times over a few days.
It finally came on right (I know, another time and other problems)
I was so used to 98, and went from that (well 98SE) to XP I haven't paid
much attention to this, unless something doesn't seem right, like recently
with the modem not working.
With 98 you could remove I.E. and get an option to repair it, I don't think
they have this now in XP?
Most of the time I just leave it alone and hope it takes care of itself,
and most of the time it does (LOL)



>
>>>
>>> "Carrie" <starchild@kingcon.com> wrote in message
>>> news:OlhzhjMHJHA.4564@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
>>> Just spent the last few days getting an error message on dialup (I wrote
>>> about in another post, resolved by putting in a new modem) but got me to
>>> thinking...
>>> When I got my DELL XPS 400 (has Win XP "media edition" I think is
>>> "professional"?) I didn't get a restore or backup WIN cd with it.
>>> Apparently they stopped giving them with it, and said you don't need it,
>>> the restore files are built in.
>>> After having the problem with error message, involving a system file
>>> (though replacing the modem fixed it, the file involved was in drivers
>>> IN
>>> the system files) I'm wondering if and how I can save the system files?
>>> I had tried this before, the folder i386. It's too big for a cd so I
>>> saved
>>> it on a DVD.
>>> But, the past few days when I got the error message, I dragged it from
>>> the
>>> dvd and replaced it and nothing changed (okay, I know, I needed a new
>>> modem but I didn't realize that then, I was trying everything)
>>> My question is, I have the folder with i386 saved on a DVD, is this
>>> something I could use to replace files at some time in the future?
>>> When I had WIN 98 (I actually got so I knew a little bit about) there
>>> was
>>> a scan one could do, showing if any of the window files were bad and
>>> needing replacing. If so, you could put in the WIN 98 cd and point it
>>> and
>>> it would fix it. Or, go online and find the file as a download and
>>> replace
>>> it. There were also system files on the harddrive (Cab files?) I
>>> remember
>>> learning on a computer help board how to reinstal Windows (98) throught
>>> the cab files and not the restore CD (which was faster, and you didn't
>>> lose your program files, etc)
>>> Anyway, is there something I can do, to make sure I have needed WIN XP
>>> files I might need? Is the folder I have saved (i386) enough? Should it
>>> be
>>> saved as a folder (which is what I have) or openned up and saved on a
>>> DVD
>>> that way? Is there a scan I can do that checks the WIN XP files on my
>>> computer, and if any are bad/missing I could use the DVD to replace them
>>> (or find them somewhere as a download online)?
>>> Hope my question(s) make sense, I'm not always sure I really know
>>> what
>>> I want or mean (LOL)
>>> In a way it amazes me that I can even "talk" computer.
>>> I was thinking of contacting Dell and asking if I could buy a restore
>>> CD for Win XP (my computer) but I know someone who tried to get a part
>>> (a
>>> fan) for her computer from them, and they wouldn't sell itto her because
>>> her guarantee/warrenty had run out and she'd have to renew that before
>>> they'd sell her a part.
>>> If I can make a backup DVD ( cds are apparently too small) of my
>>> system
>>> while it is working, that might be the same?
>>>
>>> Thanks,
>>> Carrie
>
>
 
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