
After this, she was trying to reboot her computer and got the message that hal.dll was missing and the computer could not start. It doesn't get to the windows loading screen, or to the point where safe mode could be entered, it just blanks out after showing the HP logo and gives that message. After skimming forums for some time, I tried creating a recovery center disk, which could not load because of missing files on the hard drive. I managed to eventually find a windows boot disk and tried it today, it failed the first 4 times, each time giving the name of a missing file that caused setup to fail (different file each time). After that, it made it to the end of the setup process, and gave 3 options. To repair windows, install it, or exit. When I try to enter to install it or repair it, I get the same message. That no hard disk is installed and setup cannot complete....I've been through the 'PhoenixBIOS Setup Utility' that is on this computer, the only option I can actually get to before the error message comes up, to run the hard disk self test, doesnt seem to accomplish anything, and I am at a loss, not sure what to do, I'm certainly not happy with her using my new laptop though, for I fear it will soon meet the fate of hers

Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Dan Wallace