I'm running Windows XP. I discovered the BSOD and the black screen after the Windows startup screen last night when I arrived home. Since I couldn't start Windows normally, I hit "F8" from the initial start up screen and opted to start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking which allowed me to temporarily connect to the web.
After searching online desperately for some assistance, I discovered at least one thing. It was caused by an outdated driver used by my GeForce FX 5200. Sounds simple enough. But after downloading and later uninstalling many different "fixes" I continued to have the same problem.
So, this morning I Googled GeForce FX 5200 driver update and was directed this this site "http://www.nvidia.com/content/license/location_0605.asp?url=http://us.do wnload.nvidia.com/Windows/91.47/91.47_forceware_winxp2k_english_whql.exe" and found this file... 91.33_forceware_winxp2k_english.rar
After successfully downloading this file and saving it in a folder I which I renamed for easier access " C:\NVIDIA\GeForceDriverFix ", I then went to my Device Manager, (right click "My Computer" then select "Properties" then "Hardware" then "Device Manager") and located the NVIDIA GeForce FX 5200 under Display adapters. I then right cliced to "Update Driver".
When asked "Can Windows connect to Windows Update to search for software?" I selected Yes, this time only.
When asked "What do you want the wizard to doo?" I selected Install from a list or specific location.
With "Search for the best driver in these locations" selected, I checked "Include this location in the search" then hit "Browse" to find the file where I saved the updated driver.
In my case it was "C:\NVIDIA\GeForceDriverFix"
I then selected "OK" and it proceeded to update the driver for me.
After a successful update, I was prompted to restart my computer.
I'm proud to say, blue screen, black screen and infinite loop error messages are a thing of the past.
Thanks to everyone who cared enough to post comments on this issue as it seems all too common.
And if I help just one person with this, my efforts shall not go in vain.
