Thinkpads Forum

If trying to boot other than in Safe Mode, computer will take me to a DOS prompt. Have been through all of IBM's help information, used boot diskette which sets up virtual RAM drive, reloaded drivers, etc. In the boot sequence it does indicate that some items have been remarked out of the autoexec.bat file - "by Windows Setup" - e.g., some concerning the MSCDEX.EXE file. When I loaded the virtual RAM drive, I was able to reload the operating system (with several interrupts to Restart, which I got through by step by step confirmation and not processing autoexec.bat and config.sys files. But when I got all done, it still booted to a DOS prompt. The DVD drive does not show in the Windows explorer file list. It does show under device manager - twice - is it possible I should delete one? It is a Toshiba DVD ROM SC-C2102. Any suggestions?

Thanks.

I assume you are using a Windows that has a Device Manager (i.e. not Windows 3.1, or Linux, or OS/2).

The normal approach here is to remove BOTH of the drives in Device Manager. While you are in there (obviously in SAFE mode), see if any other devices show up with yellow or red marks. Delete them also.

When you reboot, the computer should attempt to reinstall the devices, and the proper number as well.

If you are still having problems, see if the computer has actually found the DVD by going into Easy Setup (hold F1 while turning on the computer; keep it pressed until the Easy Setup screen shows), select Diagnostics, and make sure the CD icon is not grayed.

Some things that may help:

1. Make sure you have the latest BIOS installed (IHET47WW).

2. Make sure that you have installed all of the Thinkpad drivers for your operating system. They are available at the IBM Web Site.

3. Make sure you have installed any special drivers for the CD-RW into your operating system.

4. Does your computer recognize a plain CD? the internal floppy? If not, there may be a System Board problem.

Hope this helps.