Can't install SP3, IE7 etc.

[AdvancedSetup]

No it's not really possible to copy them as they're in a compressed format on the CD and they need to be that way.

 

Now... if they are EXACT same machines you could use some type of CLONING software to make the other system a CLONE of the working one.

 

It would delete anything currently on it though so you would need any data moved to external backup like an external USB drive or burned to CD.

 

It really shouldn't take all that long to run those scans.

[pilotbob]

No it's not really possible to copy them as they're in a compressed format on the CD and they need to be that way.

 

Now... if they are EXACT same machines you could use some type of CLONING software to make the other system a CLONE of the working one.

 

It would delete anything currently on it though so you would need any data moved to external backup like an external USB drive or burned to CD.

 

It really shouldn't take all that long to run those scans.

 

 

OK thanks for that, scans now running!

[pilotbob]

OK, all scans etc done, nothing untoward to report. Latest attempt at windows update reported updates failed, as follows;

Update For Windows XP (KB898461)

Security Update For Windows XP (KB920670)

Microsoft Windows Installer 3.1

 

Looks like the same problem exists.

 

Bob.

Edited July 3, 2008 by pilotbob

[AdvancedSetup]

Well the Holiday is upon us here in the US and I'm about to head out.

 

You may want to look at cloning the other system onto the bad one.

 

Clonezilla-SysRescCD

 

If you want to continue to troubleshoot we can do that, but I may not be available off and on depending on my schedule this weekend.

[pilotbob]

Well the Holiday is upon us here in the US and I'm about to head out.

 

You may want to look at cloning the other system onto the bad one.

 

Clonezilla-SysRescCD

 

If you want to continue to troubleshoot we can do that, but I may not be available off and on depending on my schedule this weekend.

 

Not sure I want to go the clone route, I do however have detailed instructions on using the (undocumented) Windows Repair option from the installation disk. If I get hold of a suitable disk do you think this would be a sensible approach else I think I might as well re-install and start again:(

 

Enjoy your break:)

 

Bob.

Edited July 4, 2008 by pilotbob

[RandyL]

What do you mean by "(undocumented) Windows Repair option from the installation disk"? If you have a xp disk you can install the Recovery Console and attempt a repair. I doubt that will help though.

 

However you said from the start that this is a fairly new setup with XP pre-installed on both computers and all you have is the Recovery CD. As such I suggest a re-install.

 

The fact that these computers are new and shipped with XP instead of Vista concerns me. It's extremely rare to find XP systems at this time. Perhaps these new computers are in fact old computers even if you bought them as new.

 

If you're not using the latest Windows Installer then that might be the source of some of your problems but it makes no sense that any computer sold today would not have that. The Installer has been out for quite some time.

 

If after a re-install the second computer won't update then it's most likely due to the fact that it is an unlicensed copy and therefore can't use the same key. One computer-one key.

 

If that is the case I would contact your place of purchase and question them as it doesn't seem right that a new PC won't update.

 

Re-install since it's new. You have little to lose.

If that doesn't work take it back.

If they won't take it back contact the authorities.

They may be engaging in illegal activities.

[pilotbob]

The fact that these computers are new and shipped with XP instead of Vista concerns me. It's extremely rare to find XP systems at this time. Perhaps these new computers are in fact old computers even if you bought them as new.

 

If after a re-install the second computer won't update then it's most likely due to the fact that it is an unlicensed copy and therefore can't use the same key. One computer-one key.

 

I deliberatly sought out a supplier who was still able to offer systems with XP pro as I am not prepared to go with Vista until it's well and truly proved. My experiance with it up to now is not a good one and I wouldn't consider using it at all until the bugs are all gone.

As to the idea that there is anything wrong with the licences for the software, you can rest assured that both have separate keys and licences. Windows genuine advantage validation is quite happy.

I'm just about to go for the re-install option but have learned today from my local supplier that Microsoft are on the verge of releasing a completely new update system for XP and Vista. Anyone know anything about this?. I might just wait to see if this solves the problem, it's clear that Microsoft are well aware that there is one.

[Guest Wolfeymole]

What do you mean by "update system" Bob?

 

Do you mean Service Packs as XP SP3 is now on full general release, Vista SP1 has been released and as far as I am aware there are no others in the pipeline at the present time.

[AdvancedSetup]

Windows 7 is in the pipeline, but if you don't like Vista then you may not like Windows 7 as it's mainly based off of Vista as is their new Server 2008

 

As for bugs, well it really isn't "bugs". Mainly there is still a lack of driver support for Vista from many vendors in the computer industry.

If all of your drivers work, and your software works, then aside from locating and doing certain tasks a little differently there is no issue with Vista aside from mostly users integration likes, dislikes.

 

Windows 7 (will probably be a different name by the time it comes out) is not slated for release until some time in 2010

 

Windows 7

 

 

.

[pilotbob]

What do you mean by "update system" Bob?

 

Do you mean Service Packs as XP SP3 is now on full general release, Vista SP1 has been released and as far as I am aware there are no others in the pipeline at the present time.

 

Sorry I should have been more clear. As I understand it this is a new "Updates Installer" somewhat akin to "Windows Update Agent". Microsoft are only too aware of problems with KB 898461. It used to be a "Critical update" but is now a "Mandatory update" and without it further updates appear to be impossible. A web search for "Problems with KB898461 or simmilar, reveals the issue is widespread and although there are several so called guaranteed fixes out there, none have worked for me, and I've tried plenty.:(

[AdvancedSetup]

Did you try this one?

 

You cannot install software update 898461 in Windows XP

 

.

[pilotbob]

Did you try this one?

 

You cannot install software update 898461 in Windows XP

 

.

 

 

Thanks for that, I don't think I've seen that one, I'll give it a try on Monday.

 

Bob.

[Seth]

Try removing the Window's installer, reboot and re-install it:

 

Download details: Windows Installer 3.1 Redistributable

Edited July 12, 2008 by Seth

[Seth]

...also, when you download the installer, try installing it from Safe Mode.

[pilotbob]

Todays situation update.

 

I tried this You cannot install software update 898461 in Windows XP and after several update/reboots I have to say all is now OK. Everything is installed correctly including IE7 without re-installing and I am again a happy bunny :D

 

Thanks to everyone for your help and perseverance, I knew the answer was out there somewhere.

 

Bob.

[RandyL]

Thankyou Bob for taking the time to let us know what worked. This information will help everyone. AdvancedSetup is away temporarily but I'm sure he will appreciate you letting him know. I'm sure the members and the team will benifit too.

 

We depend on the members to help us with feedback and to help us answer posts. So check back with the forum when you can. Maybe next time you can help a member with a problem. That's what it's all about. People helping people.

 

Once again thanks.