Why can't I use my Dell restore disk?

I'm trying to reinstall windows 98 onto my computer but it keeps telling me the 'largest executable file' must be at 44,xxx bytes. I can't get windows 98 to load anymore and I'm trying to use my startup CD that came with the system.

This question was answered on January 16, 2003. Much of the information contained herein may have changed since posting.

---

That's a memory error.

I don't know what's running on your PC now, something loaded into memory, but it's not leaving enough memory to do a restore.

Check your autoexec.bat and config.sys files Since you are doing a reinstall anyway, open them with a text editor (like WordPad, and delete everything inside them If you're squeamish, rename the files, then create new (but empty) autoexec.bat and config.sys files (they are located in your root C: directory).

Also, look in your Windows Startup group Something may be loading which you do not want Click Start > Programs to locate the group Delete any unwanted icons.

After that, I think then your reinstall will take hold Else, contact Dell, who I see by your profile, is the manufacturer of your computer They have excellent phone support personnel.

Are you sure this memory problem isn't the reason you want to restore in the first place? Perhaps you ought to clean out your TSR's before you start from scratch.

RG

About the author

Posted by Robert of Mesa Community College on January 16, 2003

Need Help with this Issue?

We help people with technology! It's what we do.
Contact or Schedule an Appointment with a location for help!