> The first thing I would do is make sure that all my important files, from both
> installations, are backed up.

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okay,,, got lots backed-up now on cd's.
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Next, I'd try to start XP in Safe Mode. If that
> works, I'd run the Magic Jelly Bean keyfinder to retrieve the XP installation
> key. If XP won't boot even into Safe Mode, I'd make getting a valid XP CD key my
> first priority.

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Yes, I agree,, I havent yet done that,, barely out of work clothes.
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If it's a Retail XP CD, I'd contact Microsoft for assistance. If
> it's an OEM CD, I'd contact the source, not MS.

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It is an oem.
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> As for your concern about accessing your Win98 installation, that shouldn't be a
> problem right now. Since XP's boot loader runs before the operating system
> loads, you should still be able to boot Win98 even if you're having problems
> running XP.

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Phew, thats at least some good news so far.
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Should you have a problem booting into Win98, the solution is
> relatively simple; boot from a Win98 floppy and run the Sys A: C: command.

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Not sure if I got that correct.... do you mean type 'Sys A: C:'??
What prompt would I be at, at that stage? Have you typed a typo, or is it just my lack of
understanding certain dos commands? (and I'm not real flash at them either, but can muddle my way
around)
------------
>
> As for using your XP CD to fix this issue, without the CD key you're limited to
> using the Recovery Console and I don't think that will help with this problem.

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Yes, I thought it might be an issue.
I went to dos just now, then to the D:drive where xp lives, then drilled down to the folder where
the .exe for jelly-bean is, and fired it up..... but again, it only brought up the key for win
98....... Am just wondering if I reboot using boot disc, can I drill down to the same file
from pure dos and execute jelly-bean from there?? Will it give me the key seeing as how I am in
pure dos? I say this now, only because I dont want to reboot the computer in next 36hrs, so
just wondering if you might know if this will work.
-------

>
> Good luck

Ta for that,, sounds like I am going to need it.
Boyohboy,,, was amazed to see how far down the n/g list my post is now, hope I get this sorted
before it just drops off and becomes an unresolved issue.
>
> Nepatsfan

Thanks for the help so far Nepatsfan.... (whats a nepats?)

Imemine.