"Patrick Keenan" wrote:

> "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
>
>
>
Before running the last set of trials (and prior to my reply to the previous
response) I tried booting with NO USB's connected. didn't make any
difference...