W7 will only start in SAFE mode

[Osprey]

Windows 7 32bit on Dell 9200 4 GB RAM 2 x 500GB HDD ... with all OS updates.

On start up (normal) desktop paints in, the spinning wheel runs for ages, then eventually all seems fine ... but can't do anything, only action is cursor .. nothing clickable. (incl Ctl+alt+del) HDD led on PC running permanently.

 

I can start in Safe MODE ...

 

System restore fails ... choosing older restore point also fails

W7 repair disk again selected restore ... Tried restore to next previous (2 days ago) all seems to go well, get login, desktop paints in ... then screen goes black ... all that is on it is cursor.

 

The only other points I can think of is that this morning (last successful boot up) it brought up a pop-up "Express files updated" with recommendation to run it ... as it gave no program, or manufacturer ... I chose not to run.

 

W7 repair disk also shows some disk sector errors but can’t fix them.

I then tried Dell diagnostics ... it diagnosed error 7

 

I run Western Digital data Lifeguard and SMART gives status as PASS

If I run Quick test .. it reports: Quick Test on Drive 1 did not complete

Status code = 07 (Failed read test element)

Failure Checkpoint=97

 

If I run Extended test: I get FAIL

Error code 08- Error was detected while repairing bad sectors.

 

Unless somebody knows how to fix this – I’m guessing I need a new HDD

 

My config is 2 HDD, split to 4 partitions .... on Drv 0 contains OS , my apps and data are on Drv 1

As I can start up in SAFE mode, is there any particular backup I can take that will allow me to put in a new HD, install OS, and then reinstall my backup ........... hopefully allow all my programmes on Drv1 to still work ?

 

I take a normal ‘user files backup’ but should I take something else to allow “recovery”

 

Would welcome any suggestion on steps.

[Jelly Bean]

You need to replace the HDD.

 

Windows 7 has back up and restore built in.

 

http://wdc.custhelp.com/app/answers/list/p/85,8/search/1/kw/