I get a black screen error message asking for normal start up etc. When I click on normal start up it does not do anything. It will not start up under normal, safe mode etc. ANY IDEAS??What OPERATING System are you using?

Are you able to enter into Safe Mode with Command Prompt?

If yes, then enter the command prompt and type: rstrui.exe

Hit enter and see if it will restore your system

edit: uh, I meant: %systemroot%\system 32\restore\rstrui.exe 1. If you have Windows CD, follow the steps from here: http://icrontic.com/articles/repair_windows_xp

2. If you don't have Windows CD...
Download Windows Recovery Console: http://www.thecomputerparamedic.com/files/rc.iso
Download, and install free Imgburn: http://www.imgburn.com/index.php?act=download
Using Imgburn, burn rc.iso to a CD.
Boot to the CD...let it finish loading.
When the "Welcome to Setup" screen appears, press R to start the Recovery Console.
Then, follow the steps from here: http://icrontic.com/articles/repair_windows_xp, starting below this picture on page 1:
Emachines T6520 OS is XP. I do not want to erase my hard drive. If I use the operating cd it will erase everything correct?
Tried starting in safe mode, it scrolls through ALOT of windows registry, I think, then goes back to black screen asking how I want to start it.
When Starting Windows Normally is chosen it just cycles back to black screen. One vicious circle. Is it the HD or motherboard that is bad? Can not get to boot from CD. CD drive starts up but doesn't kick in. Just KEEPS going to the start window normal screen.
Repair Install of XP

Done properly all your data and apps will be intact...
Dine improperly your apps and data will be GONE but you will have a clean install of XP.

I suggest reading it thru and printing out a copy for reference.If I am not comfortable with repairing, Would i be safer to buy a new HD install os using the OS disc and putting old hd into an external enclosure and pull files off it?Yes.
That's a good seond option....
Everyone could use an extra HDD....

However after you have retrieved your data i would run the repair install....that way you will have the experience for down the road.Quote

CD drive starts up but doesn't kick in. Just keeps going to the start window normal screen.