wont go into safe mode, computer just keeps recycling between dell logo and options screen. So I thought of using the IDE adapter to transfer the files from t he HD to my laptop, but for some REASON it doesnt read it, and the HD periodically sounds like its trying to access information. I cant even see the drive on my laptoop after connecting it. Are there any options I can try before I call this HD kaput?

It a dell dimension 8200 and it was running windows xp professional
Boot to the XP CD and choose the first repair option - that will take you to the Recovery Console. Once there, RUN chkdsk /ryou mean put the drive back in the computer and then boot with an xp cd? will any xp cd do, cause I dont have one that came with this computer
Yes and yes - any original XP CD can be used to get you to the Recovery Console.shasgo....
I have to ask...how many broken machines do you have ? ?You know, I don't look at the names of the posters but you're right - what's going on here?I hope they're running a SUCCESSFUL business. I'd hate to think we were wasting our time...dahlar
YOURE right , I fix computers and that why I post on here several times. Patio and Allan, its not how many broken computers I have, its how many broken computers my clients bring in. You guys are very helpful, thanks for your help.
So you get paid to fix computers, but you don't know how - so you come here for help and we do it for you for free? Nice.allan good one, no I do know how to fix computers but theres some small questions that I have from time to time that help me find out more. For example if a computer doesnt boot, then I know how to go into safe mode and try to figure out which driver is causing the problem. But I like to find out new ways of doing thing, and easier ways too, so I ask questions like the one I asked in this thread about when you use recovery vs repair.

After all I couldnt run a computer business by just relying for help from here or any other forum, cause I might get help but not when I want it. I night have deadlines, but its unfair of me to expect you to stick to them. But I get good knowledge from here. Thanks guys.