"0xc01a001d (\Registry\Machine\COMPONENTS\DerivedData...) Error when installing Vista SP1, WITH NO RESTORE OR BACKUP ACCESS!!! ANY CHANCE OF RECOVERY?????

Question

I have restarted Vista several times since downloading Vista SP1.  I was trying to get my system prepared for a Win7 Dual Boot(as several vital Programs are not yet supported).  I keep getting stuck on the  "0xc01a001d  ???/99216  (\Registry\Machine\COMPONENTS\DerivedData... " error.

I backed up to a External USB Hard Drive, and don't have the original System Disks. 

I Downloaded the Vista Recovery Disk.  On all options it said I couldn't restore.  It couldn't read the USB drive to find the Backup point.  It wouldn't even install when I tried to reinstall.

Is there any help for me.  I am a student and can get another copy of Vista from MSDNAA, but would rather not go through the time intensive  task of downloading, finding drivers on the Dell website(I have an Inspiron 1501), and reloading everything.

ANY ADVICE

Answer 1

You have tried the Startup Repair disk; to no avail.

You can try asking your question in the Windows Update Forum:

This is the Vista Install, Upgrade and Activate Forum.

You will get the best help for any Update/Service Pack problem in the Vista Update Forum; link below:

http://social.answers.microsoft.com/Forums/en-US/vistawu/threads

When you repost there, kindly include any Error Codes, and exactly what happens when you attempt to Update.

That way you will receive the best help there.

To reinstall:  

Borrow a proper Microsoft Vista DVD(not Dell, HP, etc).  

A proper Vista DVD contains all Vista versions.  

The Product Key determines which Vista version gets installed.  

There are 2 Vista disks: one for 32bit Operating System, and one for 64bit Operating System.

If a clean install is required with a proper Vista DVD (not HP, Dell Recovery Disks):

Go into your Bios/Setup, or Boot Menu, at startup, and change the Boot Order to make the DVD/CD drive 1st in the Boot Order, then reboot with the
 disk in the Drive.

At startup/power on you should see at the bottom of the screen either F2 or DELETE, to go into Bios/Setup, or F12 for the Boot Menu

[http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx/kb/918884](http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx/kb/918884)  

MS advice on doing clean install.  

[http://www.theeldergeekvista.com/vista\_clean\_installation.htm](http://www.theeldergeekvista.com/vista_clean_installation.htm)  

A Tutorial on doing a clean install

[http://www.winsupersite.com/showcase/winvista_install_03.asp](http://www.winsupersite.com/showcase/winvista_install_03.asp)

Windows Vista Installation Super Guide

Save all Data, as it will be lost during a clean install.

Cheers.

* * *

Mick Murphy - Microsoft Partner