Using Chkdsk from the XP cd

I have a friend's computer that will not boot. I get the Windows splash screen but then I get a message that Windows did boot properly the last time and will use the last known configuration. I can also choose Safe Mode if I want.

All of these options when I choose them give me an error message of 0x0000006B (or one very similar) which is a problem with the hard drive (duh). I need to run Chkdsk but my friend can not find his Dell disk.

1) Can I use my XP CD and go into Repair to run Chkdsk or do I need the disk that came with the computer?

2) Should I use Chkdsk /r or Chkdsk /f ?

3) Since I will be booting with the CD do I still need to lock the drive?

4) Is there a free diagnostic/boot CD I can download that will do what I want which is better than the XP CD?

Please note that my friend has not bothered to backup so he needs the info on the hard drive. As such I am trying to avoid any destructive process including a reinstall. I am hoping that if I have to do a reinstall or an over the top reinstall, that I can gain access to his drive with a Linux Live CD (Knoppix or Ubuntu).

Thanks for any suggestions.

Doc

I wouldn't bother with CHKDSK to diag the hard drive. Download UBCD5 (link in my signature), burn the .iso to CD, and run the appropriate HD manufacturer's diags.

You can use any Windows XP CD to get into the recovery console. Chkdsk /r is a good place to start.

That's a very rare Stop error :eek:

If you can find a Windows CD, then boot into the Recovery Console and copy the Ntdll.dll file from C:\windows\ServicePackFiles\i386 into the Windows\System 32 folder.

I wouldn't mess with software until you verify that the hardware is good. No sense in repairing Windows on a bad drive.