"Fred615" <Fred615@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:356A8357-CAC2-4993-BE8B-E6D5CD50ABCF@microsoft.com...
>I have an Intel dual core 2.4 ghz running XP Pro SP2. After a couple of
> reboots to install some USB devices including a USB to Parallel cable for
> a
> printer, I wasn't able to reboot the machine. All I get is the very first
> DOS
> type screen where the Function keys are listed at the bottom of the page.
> I've tried F8, F12, etc. to try to get to the boot screen with no luck.
> The
> first screen just sits there (for as long as 30 minutes) and I have to
> power
> down via the power button.
>
> The machine had been working just fine for weeks before this problem. Any
> ideas on what might be wrong and any possible solutions to get it running
> again?

And, if you disconnect all the USB devices, does it boot properly?

HTH
-pk