Recovering from a corrupt system 32 config file

[winslow]

Recently repaired a T23, installed the original OS (XP) with the recovery disks and got the sytem up and running. It's been about a week and now when I start the computer I get a message telling me about a missing or corrupt file in the system 32 config folder and I need to insert the installation cd and press 'R" as soon as the system starts loading. The problem is I don't have an installation cd, I only have the recovery disks. Can I just use any installation disk I can get my hands on or do I need a specific (OEM or retail) disk?

[Harryc]

I know that OEM discs are compatible with the COA on Thinkpads, so I'd also guess that an OEM disc would be fine for recovering a file as well. Retail discs are compatible universally.

[Stargate199]

What is the exact file that is corrupt?? I ask that because on several occasions I've had an error telling me that "Cannot find file ntoskrnll.dll (or ntoskrnl.exe)" and my entire hard drive was to blame because it had a head crash and physically destroyed the area of the MFT.