Okay I can't get into Windows at all.  I switched the boot order to the CD and put the XP disc in the CD drive.  I get the prompt - press any key to boot with CD.  Again, I get to the Windows Icon screen, it looks like it's loading.  Then, it dissappears as usual, except nothing ELSE happens.  The screen stays black and the processor keeps running.

I thought this was because my system drive was toast...what would PREVENT Windows from displaying? is it possible I can't see it for some stupid reason, like a peripheral plugged into the WRONG place or SOMETHING?
Crap, I need to get into my system, any help is appreciated.
Try another monitor.This is on the top of the first page of the forum (Microsoft Windows section)

 

What kind of PERIPHERALS you have?
Try to remove all of them and left only the basic components and try to start again. Quote

Okay I can't get into Windows at all.  I switched the boot order to the CD and put the XP disc in the CD drive.  I get the prompt - press any key to boot with CD.  Again, I get to the Windows Icon screen, it looks like it's loading.  Then, it dissappears as usual, except nothing else happens.  The screen stays black and the processor keeps running.

I thought this was because my system drive was toast...what would prevent Windows from displaying? is it possible I can't see it for some stupid reason, like a peripheral plugged into the wrong place or something?
Crap, I need to get into my system, any help is appreciated.