Stuck in DOS compatability mode

[twolfson 0]

I just picked up a used IBM PL300 desktop and I'm having problems setting it

up.

After fdisk and formating the HD I loaded Win98SE. The load went OK but

when it was done there was a message box telling me that the unit is

operating in dos compatability mode and my master boot record may have been

modified.

I tried rumming fdisk /mbr but that didn't change anything.

Other symptoms: windows recognizes the ide master controller but states

that the primary and secondary controllers aren't working correctly. also

the only way I could get the CDrom to work was to load command lines in my

autoexec.bat and config. sys files.

 

Any thoughts will be appreciated.

Tia,

Terry

[Guest]

Run msconfig, choose advanced, and make sure the "Force compatibility mode access" isn't checked.

[twolfson 0]

I did, It isn't.

I've returned the computer and otten a refund.

Thanks

Terry

[insaNity 0]

For future reference, it was more than likely that you needed to install the busmaster IDE drivers.

you could get them through the IBM website or perhaps direct from the chipset/io manufacturers

[twolfson 0]

Thanks

[deeman 0]

Future reference, all IBM laptops come with a cd called a 'recovery cd' which contains Windows 9x, and all of the relevent drivers.

Pop the cd in, and 15 minutes later you have a complete and ready to go laptop (no install prompts required)

It's crucial to run that cd as their drivers are so difficult to get and specific with each PC/laptop, and of course will produce a bunch of problems if not loaded.

The cd's are available from between $20-70 from IBM.

 

Daniel.

[Buhu 0]

well don't be too sad. When you get into windows and it is "working" you will wish you where back in DOS

[Admiral LSD 0]

Easiest way out of DOS Compatibility Mode? Don't use Win9x

[Chunny 0]

On my brothers duron , If install the via 4 in 1 drivers, it puts his harddrives on dos compat mode. I have no idea, so I just put XP on there