Error Message System 32

I am running Windows XP Home SP2 and I cannot do a repair. I have my original Windows XP home disk. I had downloaded SP2 from Microsoft while I was waiting for them to mail me the SP2 update disk. This happened awhile ago but I am re-visiting my issue again.

I want to run a repair on Windows because I have an error message
An exception occured while trying to run
"C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\SHELL32.DLL,CONTROL_RUNDLL
"C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM32\SYSDM.CPL"SYSTEM

As far as I can tell my machine is running great, no problems so maybe I should do nothing. The issue is, if I put my original Windows XP Cnnot do a repair. It does not reconize. If I put in the SP2 disk it does not reconize it either. I am puzzled. I definitley do not want to do a complete disk format.
Any help would be appreciated. I have attached a screen shot of the error message.

Putting the SP2 disc in won't help, you need the Windows CD. Make sure that the Windows CD isn't dirty or damaged. You can clean it in like warm water with a few drops of detergent in it. If there are any scratches they can sometimes be polished oput with some toothpaste. Note: always polish in a radial fashion towards the edge or centre and never in a circular fashion.

It is the Windows CD. I need to do a repair.

Ok, I have put on the Windows CD but I do not see where I can do a repair.
I appreciate the help.

Boot up with the XP CD in the drive and let Setup run. Go past the "C" and "R" repair options by presssing Enter just as if you're doing a clean install and you'll eventually get an option to "Repair an existing installation". That's the one you want. If it asks about formatting you've gone wrong, so start over.

You'll get to keep your existing apps & settings, but you need to re-install SP2, Windows Updates & any unsigned drivers afterwards. NOTE: Be aware that you'll lose any protection from Blaster / Sasser type worms. Don't go online without a firewall, whether the built in Windows one or 3rd party.

How to perform a re-install of WinXP

Repair XP


Important - there is always an element of risk, so make sure that you have any important data that you cannot afford to lose backed up first.

SuperSparks--Any reason you did not suggest sfc /scannow as a first step?

Nick,
Thanks for your help. I proceeded as you said and I have everything back and all is running well.
Thanks again

You're very welcome. Thanks for posting back and letting us know :)