Dual Boot Problem-Revisited

Alex · Mar 23, 2008

I'm running a dual boot system with Windows XP Pro on disk1 and Server 2003
on disk2. Windows XP is the default configuration.

If I'm sitting in front of this computer, I can easily select which OS to
boot by choosing one of the two operating systems which appear on the
screen. However, I have to make this choice by going through two separate
screens as seen below:
---------------------------------------
First Screen
Earlier Version of Windows
Microsoft Server 2003
----------------------------------------
-----------------------------
Second Screen
Windows XP Pro
Microsoft Server 2003
-------------------------------

My question why the two screens, why aren't the choices just Windows XP Pro
or Microsoft Server 2003 on the first screen?
Note: I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then installed
Server 2003 on the second drive.

Below is my boot.ini
[boot loader]
timeout=15
default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
[operating systems]
multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
Professional" /NOEXECUTE=OPTIN /FASTDETECT
multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(1)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows Server 2003"
/NOEXECUTE=OPTOUT /FASTDETECT

TIA

Alex

Pegasus \(MVP\) · Mar 23, 2008

"Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
news:urTSE3PjIHA.536@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
> I'm running a dual boot system with Windows XP Pro on disk1 and Server
> 2003 on disk2. Windows XP is the default configuration.
>
> If I'm sitting in front of this computer, I can easily select which OS to
> boot by choosing one of the two operating systems which appear on the
> screen. However, I have to make this choice by going through two separate
> screens as seen below:
> ---------------------------------------
> First Screen
> Earlier Version of Windows
> Microsoft Server 2003
> ----------------------------------------
> -----------------------------
> Second Screen
> Windows XP Pro
> Microsoft Server 2003
> -------------------------------
>
> My question why the two screens, why aren't the choices just Windows XP
> Pro or Microsoft Server 2003 on the first screen?
> Note: I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then installed
> Server 2003 on the second drive.
>
> Below is my boot.ini
> [boot loader]
> timeout=15
> default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
> [operating systems]
> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
> Professional" /NOEXECUTE=OPTIN /FASTDETECT
> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(1)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows Server
> 2003" /NOEXECUTE=OPTOUT /FASTDETECT
>
> TIA
>
> Alex

There is something strange in your setup. I suspect that you
have more than one file called "boot.ini". Check all partitions
on both disks and remember that boot.ini is normally hidden.
You should also run diskmgmt.msc and check which partition
is marked "active".

Jerry · Mar 23, 2008

Could be this: your default line ends in \WINDOWS the lines under
[operating systems] both include \WINDOWS= (plus system info). You can't
have them both called \WINDOWS.

Change default to \WINDOWS XP and then rename the other two as applicable:
\WINDOWS XP and \WINDOWS SERVER.

Now when you boot the options should be: WINDOWS XP and WINDOWS SERVER

"Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
news:urTSE3PjIHA.536@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
> I'm running a dual boot system with Windows XP Pro on disk1 and Server
> 2003 on disk2. Windows XP is the default configuration.
>
> If I'm sitting in front of this computer, I can easily select which OS to
> boot by choosing one of the two operating systems which appear on the
> screen. However, I have to make this choice by going through two separate
> screens as seen below:
> ---------------------------------------
> First Screen
> Earlier Version of Windows
> Microsoft Server 2003
> ----------------------------------------
> -----------------------------
> Second Screen
> Windows XP Pro
> Microsoft Server 2003
> -------------------------------
>
> My question why the two screens, why aren't the choices just Windows XP
> Pro or Microsoft Server 2003 on the first screen?
> Note: I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then installed
> Server 2003 on the second drive.
>
> Below is my boot.ini
> [boot loader]
> timeout=15
> default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
> [operating systems]
> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
> Professional" /NOEXECUTE=OPTIN /FASTDETECT
> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(1)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows Server
> 2003" /NOEXECUTE=OPTOUT /FASTDETECT
>
> TIA
>
> Alex
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

Alex · Mar 23, 2008

Pegusus,

Did a full search (hidden files & folders) and boot.ini did not show up -
only boot.ini.backup in windows\pss folder.

Alex

"Jerry" <ChiefZekeNoSpam@MSN.com> wrote in message
news:uUWNSvRjIHA.5504@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
> Could be this: your default line ends in \WINDOWS the lines under
> [operating systems] both include \WINDOWS= (plus system info). You can't
> have them both called \WINDOWS.
>
> Change default to \WINDOWS XP and then rename the other two as applicable:
> \WINDOWS XP and \WINDOWS SERVER.
>
> Now when you boot the options should be: WINDOWS XP and WINDOWS SERVER
>
> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
> news:urTSE3PjIHA.536@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
>> I'm running a dual boot system with Windows XP Pro on disk1 and Server
>> 2003 on disk2. Windows XP is the default configuration.
>>
>> If I'm sitting in front of this computer, I can easily select which OS to
>> boot by choosing one of the two operating systems which appear on the
>> screen. However, I have to make this choice by going through two separate
>> screens as seen below:
>> ---------------------------------------
>> First Screen
>> Earlier Version of Windows
>> Microsoft Server 2003
>> ----------------------------------------
>> -----------------------------
>> Second Screen
>> Windows XP Pro
>> Microsoft Server 2003
>> -------------------------------
>>
>> My question why the two screens, why aren't the choices just Windows XP
>> Pro or Microsoft Server 2003 on the first screen?
>> Note: I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then
>> installed Server 2003 on the second drive.
>>
>> Below is my boot.ini
>> [boot loader]
>> timeout=15
>> default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
>> [operating systems]
>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
>> Professional" /NOEXECUTE=OPTIN /FASTDETECT
>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(1)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows Server
>> 2003" /NOEXECUTE=OPTOUT /FASTDETECT
>>
>> TIA
>>
>> Alex
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>

Pegasus \(MVP\) · Mar 23, 2008

"Jerry" <ChiefZekeNoSpam@MSN.com> wrote in message
news:uUWNSvRjIHA.5504@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
> Could be this: your default line ends in \WINDOWS the lines under
> [operating systems] both include \WINDOWS= (plus system info). You can't
> have them both called \WINDOWS.
>
> Change default to \WINDOWS XP and then rename the other two as applicable:
> \WINDOWS XP and \WINDOWS SERVER.
>
> Now when you boot the options should be: WINDOWS XP and WINDOWS SERVER

Yes, he can, because the two lines refer to different
disks in the rdisk() parameter.

Pegasus \(MVP\) · Mar 23, 2008

"Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
news:ezSL66RjIHA.1164@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
> Pegusus,
>
> Did a full search (hidden files & folders) and boot.ini did not show up -
> only boot.ini.backup in windows\pss folder.
>
> Alex
>

Let's try a little experiment.
1. Format a floppy disk on this machine.
2. Copy the following hidden files to it:
c:\boot.ini
c:\ntdetect.com
c:\ntldr
3. Make sure that a:\boot.ini is really the file whose
contents you posted in your initial post.
4. Modify the boot order in your BIOS so that drive A:
is your primary boot device.
5. Boot the machine from the floppy disk.

Does the problem persist?
Do you get the double menu regardless of the OS you choose?

Alex · Mar 23, 2008

Pegasus,

I did find what appears to be a second boot.ini hidden in C:\
[boot loader]
timeout=15
default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
[operating systems]
multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
Professional" /fastdetect /NoExecute=OptIn

Note it is not the same as the one I posted which appears in
System/Advanced/etc.

What's up here?

Alex

"Pegasus (MVP)" <I.can@fly.com.oz> wrote in message
news:OFtu8XSjIHA.4080@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
>
> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
> news:ezSL66RjIHA.1164@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
>> Pegusus,
>>
>> Did a full search (hidden files & folders) and boot.ini did not show up -
>> only boot.ini.backup in windows\pss folder.
>>
>> Alex
>>
>
> Let's try a little experiment.
> 1. Format a floppy disk on this machine.
> 2. Copy the following hidden files to it:
> c:\boot.ini
> c:\ntdetect.com
> c:\ntldr
> 3. Make sure that a:\boot.ini is really the file whose
> contents you posted in your initial post.
> 4. Modify the boot order in your BIOS so that drive A:
> is your primary boot device.
> 5. Boot the machine from the floppy disk.
>
> Does the problem persist?
> Do you get the double menu regardless of the OS you choose?
>

AJR · Mar 23, 2008

Strictly "guess work" here - if this was the first dual boot setup, boot.ini
default setting would refer to "earlier version of windows" (XP installed
first) and not "Microsoft Windows XP Professional".

It appears as if you have a boot.ini file on each drive.with a selection on
the first referring you to the second. Probably (somehow) a result of "...I
did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then installed Server
2003 on the second drive...".

"Jerry" <ChiefZekeNoSpam@MSN.com> wrote in message
news:uUWNSvRjIHA.5504@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
> Could be this: your default line ends in \WINDOWS the lines under
> [operating systems] both include \WINDOWS= (plus system info). You can't
> have them both called \WINDOWS.
>
> Change default to \WINDOWS XP and then rename the other two as applicable:
> \WINDOWS XP and \WINDOWS SERVER.
>
> Now when you boot the options should be: WINDOWS XP and WINDOWS SERVER
>
> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
> news:urTSE3PjIHA.536@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
>> I'm running a dual boot system with Windows XP Pro on disk1 and Server
>> 2003 on disk2. Windows XP is the default configuration.
>>
>> If I'm sitting in front of this computer, I can easily select which OS to
>> boot by choosing one of the two operating systems which appear on the
>> screen. However, I have to make this choice by going through two separate
>> screens as seen below:
>> ---------------------------------------
>> First Screen
>> Earlier Version of Windows
>> Microsoft Server 2003
>> ----------------------------------------
>> -----------------------------
>> Second Screen
>> Windows XP Pro
>> Microsoft Server 2003
>> -------------------------------
>>
>> My question why the two screens, why aren't the choices just Windows XP
>> Pro or Microsoft Server 2003 on the first screen?
>> Note: I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then
>> installed Server 2003 on the second drive.
>>
>> Below is my boot.ini
>> [boot loader]
>> timeout=15
>> default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
>> [operating systems]
>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
>> Professional" /NOEXECUTE=OPTIN /FASTDETECT
>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(1)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows Server
>> 2003" /NOEXECUTE=OPTOUT /FASTDETECT
>>
>> TIA
>>
>> Alex
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>
>

Pegasus \(MVP\) · Mar 23, 2008

So my initial suspicion was correct . . .

You should now tag the text on the right-hand side of the "="
so that you can work out which boot.ini file generates which
menu. And as I said before, you must find out which partition
is marked active.

"Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
news:%23e2rilSjIHA.4244@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
> Pegasus,
>
> I did find what appears to be a second boot.ini hidden in C:\
> [boot loader]
> timeout=15
> default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
> [operating systems]
> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
> Professional" /fastdetect /NoExecute=OptIn
>
> Note it is not the same as the one I posted which appears in
> System/Advanced/etc.
>
> What's up here?
>
> Alex
>
>
> "Pegasus (MVP)" <I.can@fly.com.oz> wrote in message
> news:OFtu8XSjIHA.4080@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
>>
>> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
>> news:ezSL66RjIHA.1164@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
>>> Pegusus,
>>>
>>> Did a full search (hidden files & folders) and boot.ini did not show
>>> up - only boot.ini.backup in windows\pss folder.
>>>
>>> Alex
>>>
>>
>> Let's try a little experiment.
>> 1. Format a floppy disk on this machine.
>> 2. Copy the following hidden files to it:
>> c:\boot.ini
>> c:\ntdetect.com
>> c:\ntldr
>> 3. Make sure that a:\boot.ini is really the file whose
>> contents you posted in your initial post.
>> 4. Modify the boot order in your BIOS so that drive A:
>> is your primary boot device.
>> 5. Boot the machine from the floppy disk.
>>
>> Does the problem persist?
>> Do you get the double menu regardless of the OS you choose?
>>
>
>

Alex · Mar 23, 2008

Thanks Pegasus, will do some checking and let you know.

Alex

"Pegasus (MVP)" <I.can@fly.com.oz> wrote in message
news:%23tdaotSjIHA.4076@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
> So my initial suspicion was correct . . .
>
> You should now tag the text on the right-hand side of the "="
> so that you can work out which boot.ini file generates which
> menu. And as I said before, you must find out which partition
> is marked active.
>
>
> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
> news:%23e2rilSjIHA.4244@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
>> Pegasus,
>>
>> I did find what appears to be a second boot.ini hidden in C:\
>> [boot loader]
>> timeout=15
>> default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
>> [operating systems]
>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
>> Professional" /fastdetect /NoExecute=OptIn
>>
>> Note it is not the same as the one I posted which appears in
>> System/Advanced/etc.
>>
>> What's up here?
>>
>> Alex
>>
>>
>> "Pegasus (MVP)" <I.can@fly.com.oz> wrote in message
>> news:OFtu8XSjIHA.4080@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
>>>
>>> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
>>> news:ezSL66RjIHA.1164@TK2MSFTNGP02.phx.gbl...
>>>> Pegusus,
>>>>
>>>> Did a full search (hidden files & folders) and boot.ini did not show
>>>> up - only boot.ini.backup in windows\pss folder.
>>>>
>>>> Alex
>>>>
>>>
>>> Let's try a little experiment.
>>> 1. Format a floppy disk on this machine.
>>> 2. Copy the following hidden files to it:
>>> c:\boot.ini
>>> c:\ntdetect.com
>>> c:\ntldr
>>> 3. Make sure that a:\boot.ini is really the file whose
>>> contents you posted in your initial post.
>>> 4. Modify the boot order in your BIOS so that drive A:
>>> is your primary boot device.
>>> 5. Boot the machine from the floppy disk.
>>>
>>> Does the problem persist?
>>> Do you get the double menu regardless of the OS you choose?
>>>
>>
>>
>
>

Alex · Mar 24, 2008

Jerry,
Thank you for your interesting comments. Yes, I believe I must have 2
boot.ini files but the only one I've located so far was at C:\ and none at
D:\.

The boot.ini at C:\ is responsible for the second boot screen because I can
change the timeout from 30 to 10 seconds. The time out on the first screen
(earlier version of windows) remains at 30 seconds so it must be controlled
from a different boot.ini.

I will continue the search for this other boot file but at some point I may
consider re-setting the boot file with the Windows Recovery Console - see :
http://pcsupport.about.com/od/fixtheproblem/ht/repairbootini.htm
"AJR" <ajrjdr@comcast.net> wrote in message
news:e5u7rmSjIHA.5820@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...

Many thanks
Alex

> Strictly "guess work" here - if this was the first dual boot setup,
> boot.ini default setting would refer to "earlier version of windows" (XP
> installed first) and not "Microsoft Windows XP Professional".
>
> It appears as if you have a boot.ini file on each drive.with a selection
> on the first referring you to the second. Probably (somehow) a result of
> "...I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then installed
> Server 2003 on the second drive...".
>
>
> "Jerry" <ChiefZekeNoSpam@MSN.com> wrote in message
> news:uUWNSvRjIHA.5504@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
>> Could be this: your default line ends in \WINDOWS the lines under
>> [operating systems] both include \WINDOWS= (plus system info). You can't
>> have them both called \WINDOWS.
>>
>> Change default to \WINDOWS XP and then rename the other two as
>> applicable: \WINDOWS XP and \WINDOWS SERVER.
>>
>> Now when you boot the options should be: WINDOWS XP and WINDOWS SERVER
>>
>> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
>> news:urTSE3PjIHA.536@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
>>> I'm running a dual boot system with Windows XP Pro on disk1 and Server
>>> 2003 on disk2. Windows XP is the default configuration.
>>>
>>> If I'm sitting in front of this computer, I can easily select which OS
>>> to boot by choosing one of the two operating systems which appear on the
>>> screen. However, I have to make this choice by going through two
>>> separate screens as seen below:
>>> ---------------------------------------
>>> First Screen
>>> Earlier Version of Windows
>>> Microsoft Server 2003
>>> ----------------------------------------
>>> -----------------------------
>>> Second Screen
>>> Windows XP Pro
>>> Microsoft Server 2003
>>> -------------------------------
>>>
>>> My question why the two screens, why aren't the choices just Windows XP
>>> Pro or Microsoft Server 2003 on the first screen?
>>> Note: I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then
>>> installed Server 2003 on the second drive.
>>>
>>> Below is my boot.ini
>>> [boot loader]
>>> timeout=15
>>> default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
>>> [operating systems]
>>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
>>> Professional" /NOEXECUTE=OPTIN /FASTDETECT
>>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(1)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows Server
>>> 2003" /NOEXECUTE=OPTOUT /FASTDETECT
>>>
>>> TIA
>>>
>>> Alex
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>
>

Pegasus \(MVP\) · Mar 24, 2008

Why don't you run this very simple test to locate your
invisible boot.ini files?
- Click Start / Run / cmd {OK}
- Type these commands, one after the other:
md c:\boot.ini{Enter}
md d:\boot.ini{Enter}
md e:\boot.ini{Enter}
md f:\boot.ini{Enter}
If boot.ini exists then you won't be able to create
a directory of the same name. No magic here!

"Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
news:eTGdh$ZjIHA.3740@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
> Jerry,
> Thank you for your interesting comments. Yes, I believe I must have 2
> boot.ini files but the only one I've located so far was at C:\ and none at
> D:\.
>
> The boot.ini at C:\ is responsible for the second boot screen because I
> can change the timeout from 30 to 10 seconds. The time out on the first
> screen (earlier version of windows) remains at 30 seconds so it must be
> controlled from a different boot.ini.
>
> I will continue the search for this other boot file but at some point I
> may consider re-setting the boot file with the Windows Recovery Console -
> see :
> http://pcsupport.about.com/od/fixtheproblem/ht/repairbootini.htm
> "AJR" <ajrjdr@comcast.net> wrote in message
> news:e5u7rmSjIHA.5820@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...
>
> Many thanks
> Alex
>
>> Strictly "guess work" here - if this was the first dual boot setup,
>> boot.ini default setting would refer to "earlier version of windows" (XP
>> installed first) and not "Microsoft Windows XP Professional".
>>
>> It appears as if you have a boot.ini file on each drive.with a selection
>> on the first referring you to the second. Probably (somehow) a result of
>> "...I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then installed
>> Server 2003 on the second drive...".
>>
>>
>> "Jerry" <ChiefZekeNoSpam@MSN.com> wrote in message
>> news:uUWNSvRjIHA.5504@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
>>> Could be this: your default line ends in \WINDOWS the lines under
>>> [operating systems] both include \WINDOWS= (plus system info). You can't
>>> have them both called \WINDOWS.
>>>
>>> Change default to \WINDOWS XP and then rename the other two as
>>> applicable: \WINDOWS XP and \WINDOWS SERVER.
>>>
>>> Now when you boot the options should be: WINDOWS XP and WINDOWS SERVER
>>>
>>> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
>>> news:urTSE3PjIHA.536@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
>>>> I'm running a dual boot system with Windows XP Pro on disk1 and Server
>>>> 2003 on disk2. Windows XP is the default configuration.
>>>>
>>>> If I'm sitting in front of this computer, I can easily select which OS
>>>> to boot by choosing one of the two operating systems which appear on
>>>> the screen. However, I have to make this choice by going through two
>>>> separate screens as seen below:
>>>> ---------------------------------------
>>>> First Screen
>>>> Earlier Version of Windows
>>>> Microsoft Server 2003
>>>> ----------------------------------------
>>>> -----------------------------
>>>> Second Screen
>>>> Windows XP Pro
>>>> Microsoft Server 2003
>>>> -------------------------------
>>>>
>>>> My question why the two screens, why aren't the choices just Windows XP
>>>> Pro or Microsoft Server 2003 on the first screen?
>>>> Note: I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then
>>>> installed Server 2003 on the second drive.
>>>>
>>>> Below is my boot.ini
>>>> [boot loader]
>>>> timeout=15
>>>> default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
>>>> [operating systems]
>>>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
>>>> Professional" /NOEXECUTE=OPTIN /FASTDETECT
>>>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(1)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows Server
>>>> 2003" /NOEXECUTE=OPTOUT /FASTDETECT
>>>>
>>>> TIA
>>>>
>>>> Alex
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>
>

Alex · Mar 24, 2008

Could not md on C:\ but could on all other drives. I guess that means it
only exists on C:\.

Alex

"Pegasus (MVP)" <I.can@fly.com.oz> wrote in message
news:%23KC3jedjIHA.4664@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
> Why don't you run this very simple test to locate your
> invisible boot.ini files?
> - Click Start / Run / cmd {OK}
> - Type these commands, one after the other:
> md c:\boot.ini{Enter}
> md d:\boot.ini{Enter}
> md e:\boot.ini{Enter}
> md f:\boot.ini{Enter}
> If boot.ini exists then you won't be able to create
> a directory of the same name. No magic here!
>
>
> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
> news:eTGdh$ZjIHA.3740@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
>> Jerry,
>> Thank you for your interesting comments. Yes, I believe I must have 2
>> boot.ini files but the only one I've located so far was at C:\ and none
>> at D:\.
>>
>> The boot.ini at C:\ is responsible for the second boot screen because I
>> can change the timeout from 30 to 10 seconds. The time out on the first
>> screen (earlier version of windows) remains at 30 seconds so it must be
>> controlled from a different boot.ini.
>>
>> I will continue the search for this other boot file but at some point I
>> may consider re-setting the boot file with the Windows Recovery Console -
>> see :
>> http://pcsupport.about.com/od/fixtheproblem/ht/repairbootini.htm
>> "AJR" <ajrjdr@comcast.net> wrote in message
>> news:e5u7rmSjIHA.5820@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...
>>
>> Many thanks
>> Alex
>>
>>> Strictly "guess work" here - if this was the first dual boot setup,
>>> boot.ini default setting would refer to "earlier version of windows" (XP
>>> installed first) and not "Microsoft Windows XP Professional".
>>>
>>> It appears as if you have a boot.ini file on each drive.with a selection
>>> on the first referring you to the second. Probably (somehow) a result of
>>> "...I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then installed
>>> Server 2003 on the second drive...".
>>>
>>>
>>> "Jerry" <ChiefZekeNoSpam@MSN.com> wrote in message
>>> news:uUWNSvRjIHA.5504@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
>>>> Could be this: your default line ends in \WINDOWS the lines under
>>>> [operating systems] both include \WINDOWS= (plus system info). You
>>>> can't have them both called \WINDOWS.
>>>>
>>>> Change default to \WINDOWS XP and then rename the other two as
>>>> applicable: \WINDOWS XP and \WINDOWS SERVER.
>>>>
>>>> Now when you boot the options should be: WINDOWS XP and WINDOWS SERVER
>>>>
>>>> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
>>>> news:urTSE3PjIHA.536@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
>>>>> I'm running a dual boot system with Windows XP Pro on disk1 and Server
>>>>> 2003 on disk2. Windows XP is the default configuration.
>>>>>
>>>>> If I'm sitting in front of this computer, I can easily select which OS
>>>>> to boot by choosing one of the two operating systems which appear on
>>>>> the screen. However, I have to make this choice by going through two
>>>>> separate screens as seen below:
>>>>> ---------------------------------------
>>>>> First Screen
>>>>> Earlier Version of Windows
>>>>> Microsoft Server 2003
>>>>> ----------------------------------------
>>>>> -----------------------------
>>>>> Second Screen
>>>>> Windows XP Pro
>>>>> Microsoft Server 2003
>>>>> -------------------------------
>>>>>
>>>>> My question why the two screens, why aren't the choices just Windows
>>>>> XP Pro or Microsoft Server 2003 on the first screen?
>>>>> Note: I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then
>>>>> installed Server 2003 on the second drive.
>>>>>
>>>>> Below is my boot.ini
>>>>> [boot loader]
>>>>> timeout=15
>>>>> default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
>>>>> [operating systems]
>>>>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
>>>>> Professional" /NOEXECUTE=OPTIN /FASTDETECT
>>>>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(1)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows Server
>>>>> 2003" /NOEXECUTE=OPTOUT /FASTDETECT
>>>>>
>>>>> TIA
>>>>>
>>>>> Alex
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>
>

Pegasus \(MVP\) · Mar 25, 2008

Correct.
How did you go when booting the machine with the
floppy boot disk?

"Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
news:eBY$NqgjIHA.5724@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
> Could not md on C:\ but could on all other drives. I guess that means it
> only exists on C:\.
>
> Alex
>
>
> "Pegasus (MVP)" <I.can@fly.com.oz> wrote in message
> news:%23KC3jedjIHA.4664@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
>> Why don't you run this very simple test to locate your
>> invisible boot.ini files?
>> - Click Start / Run / cmd {OK}
>> - Type these commands, one after the other:
>> md c:\boot.ini{Enter}
>> md d:\boot.ini{Enter}
>> md e:\boot.ini{Enter}
>> md f:\boot.ini{Enter}
>> If boot.ini exists then you won't be able to create
>> a directory of the same name. No magic here!
>>
>>
>> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
>> news:eTGdh$ZjIHA.3740@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
>>> Jerry,
>>> Thank you for your interesting comments. Yes, I believe I must have 2
>>> boot.ini files but the only one I've located so far was at C:\ and none
>>> at D:\.
>>>
>>> The boot.ini at C:\ is responsible for the second boot screen because I
>>> can change the timeout from 30 to 10 seconds. The time out on the first
>>> screen (earlier version of windows) remains at 30 seconds so it must be
>>> controlled from a different boot.ini.
>>>
>>> I will continue the search for this other boot file but at some point I
>>> may consider re-setting the boot file with the Windows Recovery
>>> Console - see :
>>> http://pcsupport.about.com/od/fixtheproblem/ht/repairbootini.htm
>>> "AJR" <ajrjdr@comcast.net> wrote in message
>>> news:e5u7rmSjIHA.5820@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...
>>>
>>> Many thanks
>>> Alex
>>>
>>>> Strictly "guess work" here - if this was the first dual boot setup,
>>>> boot.ini default setting would refer to "earlier version of windows"
>>>> (XP installed first) and not "Microsoft Windows XP Professional".
>>>>
>>>> It appears as if you have a boot.ini file on each drive.with a
>>>> selection on the first referring you to the second. Probably (somehow)
>>>> a result of "...I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and
>>>> then installed Server 2003 on the second drive...".
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> "Jerry" <ChiefZekeNoSpam@MSN.com> wrote in message
>>>> news:uUWNSvRjIHA.5504@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
>>>>> Could be this: your default line ends in \WINDOWS the lines under
>>>>> [operating systems] both include \WINDOWS= (plus system info). You
>>>>> can't have them both called \WINDOWS.
>>>>>
>>>>> Change default to \WINDOWS XP and then rename the other two as
>>>>> applicable: \WINDOWS XP and \WINDOWS SERVER.
>>>>>
>>>>> Now when you boot the options should be: WINDOWS XP and WINDOWS SERVER
>>>>>
>>>>> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
>>>>> news:urTSE3PjIHA.536@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
>>>>>> I'm running a dual boot system with Windows XP Pro on disk1 and
>>>>>> Server 2003 on disk2. Windows XP is the default configuration.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> If I'm sitting in front of this computer, I can easily select which
>>>>>> OS to boot by choosing one of the two operating systems which appear
>>>>>> on the screen. However, I have to make this choice by going through
>>>>>> two separate screens as seen below:
>>>>>> ---------------------------------------
>>>>>> First Screen
>>>>>> Earlier Version of Windows
>>>>>> Microsoft Server 2003
>>>>>> ----------------------------------------
>>>>>> -----------------------------
>>>>>> Second Screen
>>>>>> Windows XP Pro
>>>>>> Microsoft Server 2003
>>>>>> -------------------------------
>>>>>>
>>>>>> My question why the two screens, why aren't the choices just Windows
>>>>>> XP Pro or Microsoft Server 2003 on the first screen?
>>>>>> Note: I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then
>>>>>> installed Server 2003 on the second drive.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Below is my boot.ini
>>>>>> [boot loader]
>>>>>> timeout=15
>>>>>> default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
>>>>>> [operating systems]
>>>>>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
>>>>>> Professional" /NOEXECUTE=OPTIN /FASTDETECT
>>>>>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(1)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows Server
>>>>>> 2003" /NOEXECUTE=OPTOUT /FASTDETECT
>>>>>>
>>>>>> TIA
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Alex
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>
>

Alex · Mar 25, 2008

Sorry, did not get around trying the floppy yet.

Alex

"Pegasus (MVP)" <I.can@fly.com.oz> wrote in message
news:Oe1i5NkjIHA.424@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
> Correct.
> How did you go when booting the machine with the
> floppy boot disk?
>
> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
> news:eBY$NqgjIHA.5724@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
>> Could not md on C:\ but could on all other drives. I guess that means it
>> only exists on C:\.
>>
>> Alex
>>
>>
>> "Pegasus (MVP)" <I.can@fly.com.oz> wrote in message
>> news:%23KC3jedjIHA.4664@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
>>> Why don't you run this very simple test to locate your
>>> invisible boot.ini files?
>>> - Click Start / Run / cmd {OK}
>>> - Type these commands, one after the other:
>>> md c:\boot.ini{Enter}
>>> md d:\boot.ini{Enter}
>>> md e:\boot.ini{Enter}
>>> md f:\boot.ini{Enter}
>>> If boot.ini exists then you won't be able to create
>>> a directory of the same name. No magic here!
>>>
>>>
>>> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
>>> news:eTGdh$ZjIHA.3740@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
>>>> Jerry,
>>>> Thank you for your interesting comments. Yes, I believe I must have 2
>>>> boot.ini files but the only one I've located so far was at C:\ and none
>>>> at D:\.
>>>>
>>>> The boot.ini at C:\ is responsible for the second boot screen because I
>>>> can change the timeout from 30 to 10 seconds. The time out on the first
>>>> screen (earlier version of windows) remains at 30 seconds so it must be
>>>> controlled from a different boot.ini.
>>>>
>>>> I will continue the search for this other boot file but at some point I
>>>> may consider re-setting the boot file with the Windows Recovery
>>>> Console - see :
>>>> http://pcsupport.about.com/od/fixtheproblem/ht/repairbootini.htm
>>>> "AJR" <ajrjdr@comcast.net> wrote in message
>>>> news:e5u7rmSjIHA.5820@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...
>>>>
>>>> Many thanks
>>>> Alex
>>>>
>>>>> Strictly "guess work" here - if this was the first dual boot setup,
>>>>> boot.ini default setting would refer to "earlier version of windows"
>>>>> (XP installed first) and not "Microsoft Windows XP Professional".
>>>>>
>>>>> It appears as if you have a boot.ini file on each drive.with a
>>>>> selection on the first referring you to the second. Probably (somehow)
>>>>> a result of "...I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and
>>>>> then installed Server 2003 on the second drive...".
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> "Jerry" <ChiefZekeNoSpam@MSN.com> wrote in message
>>>>> news:uUWNSvRjIHA.5504@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
>>>>>> Could be this: your default line ends in \WINDOWS the lines under
>>>>>> [operating systems] both include \WINDOWS= (plus system info). You
>>>>>> can't have them both called \WINDOWS.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Change default to \WINDOWS XP and then rename the other two as
>>>>>> applicable: \WINDOWS XP and \WINDOWS SERVER.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Now when you boot the options should be: WINDOWS XP and WINDOWS
>>>>>> SERVER
>>>>>>
>>>>>> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
>>>>>> news:urTSE3PjIHA.536@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
>>>>>>> I'm running a dual boot system with Windows XP Pro on disk1 and
>>>>>>> Server 2003 on disk2. Windows XP is the default configuration.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> If I'm sitting in front of this computer, I can easily select which
>>>>>>> OS to boot by choosing one of the two operating systems which appear
>>>>>>> on the screen. However, I have to make this choice by going through
>>>>>>> two separate screens as seen below:
>>>>>>> ---------------------------------------
>>>>>>> First Screen
>>>>>>> Earlier Version of Windows
>>>>>>> Microsoft Server 2003
>>>>>>> ----------------------------------------
>>>>>>> -----------------------------
>>>>>>> Second Screen
>>>>>>> Windows XP Pro
>>>>>>> Microsoft Server 2003
>>>>>>> -------------------------------
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> My question why the two screens, why aren't the choices just Windows
>>>>>>> XP Pro or Microsoft Server 2003 on the first screen?
>>>>>>> Note: I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then
>>>>>>> installed Server 2003 on the second drive.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Below is my boot.ini
>>>>>>> [boot loader]
>>>>>>> timeout=15
>>>>>>> default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
>>>>>>> [operating systems]
>>>>>>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
>>>>>>> Professional" /NOEXECUTE=OPTIN /FASTDETECT
>>>>>>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(1)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows
>>>>>>> Server 2003" /NOEXECUTE=OPTOUT /FASTDETECT
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> TIA
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Alex
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>
>

Andy · Mar 26, 2008

What files do you see when you execute dir /ah at C:\?
The first boot screen resembles what's seen with the Vista boot
manager.

On Mon, 24 Mar 2008 07:12:10 -0400, "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net>
wrote:

>Jerry,
>Thank you for your interesting comments. Yes, I believe I must have 2
>boot.ini files but the only one I've located so far was at C:\ and none at
>D:\.
>
>The boot.ini at C:\ is responsible for the second boot screen because I can
>change the timeout from 30 to 10 seconds. The time out on the first screen
>(earlier version of windows) remains at 30 seconds so it must be controlled
>from a different boot.ini.
>
>I will continue the search for this other boot file but at some point I may
>consider re-setting the boot file with the Windows Recovery Console - see :
>http://pcsupport.about.com/od/fixtheproblem/ht/repairbootini.htm
>"AJR" <ajrjdr@comcast.net> wrote in message
>news:e5u7rmSjIHA.5820@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...
>
>Many thanks
>Alex
>
>> Strictly "guess work" here - if this was the first dual boot setup,
>> boot.ini default setting would refer to "earlier version of windows" (XP
>> installed first) and not "Microsoft Windows XP Professional".
>>
>> It appears as if you have a boot.ini file on each drive.with a selection
>> on the first referring you to the second. Probably (somehow) a result of
>> "...I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then installed
>> Server 2003 on the second drive...".
>>
>>
>> "Jerry" <ChiefZekeNoSpam@MSN.com> wrote in message
>> news:uUWNSvRjIHA.5504@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
>>> Could be this: your default line ends in \WINDOWS the lines under
>>> [operating systems] both include \WINDOWS= (plus system info). You can't
>>> have them both called \WINDOWS.
>>>
>>> Change default to \WINDOWS XP and then rename the other two as
>>> applicable: \WINDOWS XP and \WINDOWS SERVER.
>>>
>>> Now when you boot the options should be: WINDOWS XP and WINDOWS SERVER
>>>
>>> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
>>> news:urTSE3PjIHA.536@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
>>>> I'm running a dual boot system with Windows XP Pro on disk1 and Server
>>>> 2003 on disk2. Windows XP is the default configuration.
>>>>
>>>> If I'm sitting in front of this computer, I can easily select which OS
>>>> to boot by choosing one of the two operating systems which appear on the
>>>> screen. However, I have to make this choice by going through two
>>>> separate screens as seen below:
>>>> ---------------------------------------
>>>> First Screen
>>>> Earlier Version of Windows
>>>> Microsoft Server 2003
>>>> ----------------------------------------
>>>> -----------------------------
>>>> Second Screen
>>>> Windows XP Pro
>>>> Microsoft Server 2003
>>>> -------------------------------
>>>>
>>>> My question why the two screens, why aren't the choices just Windows XP
>>>> Pro or Microsoft Server 2003 on the first screen?
>>>> Note: I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then
>>>> installed Server 2003 on the second drive.
>>>>
>>>> Below is my boot.ini
>>>> [boot loader]
>>>> timeout=15
>>>> default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
>>>> [operating systems]
>>>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
>>>> Professional" /NOEXECUTE=OPTIN /FASTDETECT
>>>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(1)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows Server
>>>> 2003" /NOEXECUTE=OPTOUT /FASTDETECT
>>>>
>>>> TIA
>>>>
>>>> Alex
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>

Alex · Mar 26, 2008

Pegasus,

I did you floppy boot experiment and got the proper (single) start up
screen.

Alex

"Pegasus (MVP)" <I.can@fly.com.oz> wrote in message
news:edksjXSjIHA.748@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...
>
> "Jerry" <ChiefZekeNoSpam@MSN.com> wrote in message
> news:uUWNSvRjIHA.5504@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
>> Could be this: your default line ends in \WINDOWS the lines under
>> [operating systems] both include \WINDOWS= (plus system info). You can't
>> have them both called \WINDOWS.
>>
>> Change default to \WINDOWS XP and then rename the other two as
>> applicable: \WINDOWS XP and \WINDOWS SERVER.
>>
>> Now when you boot the options should be: WINDOWS XP and WINDOWS SERVER
>
> Yes, he can, because the two lines refer to different
> disks in the rdisk() parameter.
>
>

Pegasus \(MVP\) · Mar 26, 2008

Good! This means two things:
a) There is nothing wrong with a:\boot.ini
b) You can start repairing your boot environment without
fear. If something goes wrong then you can still boot
into Windows with your boot diskette.

I would now do this:
- Run diskmgmt.msc and make sure that the correct
partition is marked "active".
- Boot the machine into the Recovery Console, using
your WinXP installation disks, then run these commands:
fixboot{Enter}
fixmbr{Enter}

"Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
news:uTc85AzjIHA.1188@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...
> Pegasus,
>
> I did you floppy boot experiment and got the proper (single) start up
> screen.
>
> Alex
>
> "Pegasus (MVP)" <I.can@fly.com.oz> wrote in message
> news:edksjXSjIHA.748@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...
>>
>> "Jerry" <ChiefZekeNoSpam@MSN.com> wrote in message
>> news:uUWNSvRjIHA.5504@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
>>> Could be this: your default line ends in \WINDOWS the lines under
>>> [operating systems] both include \WINDOWS= (plus system info). You can't
>>> have them both called \WINDOWS.
>>>
>>> Change default to \WINDOWS XP and then rename the other two as
>>> applicable: \WINDOWS XP and \WINDOWS SERVER.
>>>
>>> Now when you boot the options should be: WINDOWS XP and WINDOWS SERVER
>>
>> Yes, he can, because the two lines refer to different
>> disks in the rdisk() parameter.
>>
>>
>
>

Alex · Mar 27, 2008

Pegasus,

Will give it a try but It may be a few days till I am able to do it.

Thanks again.

Alex

"Pegasus (MVP)" <I.can@fly.com.oz> wrote in message
news:ulYqsa2jIHA.2304@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
> Good! This means two things:
> a) There is nothing wrong with a:\boot.ini
> b) You can start repairing your boot environment without
> fear. If something goes wrong then you can still boot
> into Windows with your boot diskette.
>
> I would now do this:
> - Run diskmgmt.msc and make sure that the correct
> partition is marked "active".
> - Boot the machine into the Recovery Console, using
> your WinXP installation disks, then run these commands:
> fixboot{Enter}
> fixmbr{Enter}
>
>
> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
> news:uTc85AzjIHA.1188@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...
>> Pegasus,
>>
>> I did you floppy boot experiment and got the proper (single) start up
>> screen.
>>
>> Alex
>>
>> "Pegasus (MVP)" <I.can@fly.com.oz> wrote in message
>> news:edksjXSjIHA.748@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...
>>>
>>> "Jerry" <ChiefZekeNoSpam@MSN.com> wrote in message
>>> news:uUWNSvRjIHA.5504@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
>>>> Could be this: your default line ends in \WINDOWS the lines under
>>>> [operating systems] both include \WINDOWS= (plus system info). You
>>>> can't have them both called \WINDOWS.
>>>>
>>>> Change default to \WINDOWS XP and then rename the other two as
>>>> applicable: \WINDOWS XP and \WINDOWS SERVER.
>>>>
>>>> Now when you boot the options should be: WINDOWS XP and WINDOWS SERVER
>>>
>>> Yes, he can, because the two lines refer to different
>>> disks in the rdisk() parameter.
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>
>

Alex · Mar 28, 2008

Pegasus,

I followed your fixboot,fixmbr suggestion and that solved the problems of
two boot screens.
However, Windows XP loaded properly but Server 03 would not boot.
Rather than fooling around (limited time), I decided to re-install Server
03. Now everything works as it should.

I can now do what I originally set out to do, control the booting remotely
through the Advanced, Startup and Recovery settings menu.

Many thanks for all your help and suggestions.

Alex

"Pegasus (MVP)" <I.can@fly.com.oz> wrote in message
news:Oe1i5NkjIHA.424@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
> Correct.
> How did you go when booting the machine with the
> floppy boot disk?
>
> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
> news:eBY$NqgjIHA.5724@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
>> Could not md on C:\ but could on all other drives. I guess that means it
>> only exists on C:\.
>>
>> Alex
>>
>>
>> "Pegasus (MVP)" <I.can@fly.com.oz> wrote in message
>> news:%23KC3jedjIHA.4664@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
>>> Why don't you run this very simple test to locate your
>>> invisible boot.ini files?
>>> - Click Start / Run / cmd {OK}
>>> - Type these commands, one after the other:
>>> md c:\boot.ini{Enter}
>>> md d:\boot.ini{Enter}
>>> md e:\boot.ini{Enter}
>>> md f:\boot.ini{Enter}
>>> If boot.ini exists then you won't be able to create
>>> a directory of the same name. No magic here!
>>>
>>>
>>> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
>>> news:eTGdh$ZjIHA.3740@TK2MSFTNGP03.phx.gbl...
>>>> Jerry,
>>>> Thank you for your interesting comments. Yes, I believe I must have 2
>>>> boot.ini files but the only one I've located so far was at C:\ and none
>>>> at D:\.
>>>>
>>>> The boot.ini at C:\ is responsible for the second boot screen because I
>>>> can change the timeout from 30 to 10 seconds. The time out on the first
>>>> screen (earlier version of windows) remains at 30 seconds so it must be
>>>> controlled from a different boot.ini.
>>>>
>>>> I will continue the search for this other boot file but at some point I
>>>> may consider re-setting the boot file with the Windows Recovery
>>>> Console - see :
>>>> http://pcsupport.about.com/od/fixtheproblem/ht/repairbootini.htm
>>>> "AJR" <ajrjdr@comcast.net> wrote in message
>>>> news:e5u7rmSjIHA.5820@TK2MSFTNGP04.phx.gbl...
>>>>
>>>> Many thanks
>>>> Alex
>>>>
>>>>> Strictly "guess work" here - if this was the first dual boot setup,
>>>>> boot.ini default setting would refer to "earlier version of windows"
>>>>> (XP installed first) and not "Microsoft Windows XP Professional".
>>>>>
>>>>> It appears as if you have a boot.ini file on each drive.with a
>>>>> selection on the first referring you to the second. Probably (somehow)
>>>>> a result of "...I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and
>>>>> then installed Server 2003 on the second drive...".
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> "Jerry" <ChiefZekeNoSpam@MSN.com> wrote in message
>>>>> news:uUWNSvRjIHA.5504@TK2MSFTNGP05.phx.gbl...
>>>>>> Could be this: your default line ends in \WINDOWS the lines under
>>>>>> [operating systems] both include \WINDOWS= (plus system info). You
>>>>>> can't have them both called \WINDOWS.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Change default to \WINDOWS XP and then rename the other two as
>>>>>> applicable: \WINDOWS XP and \WINDOWS SERVER.
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Now when you boot the options should be: WINDOWS XP and WINDOWS
>>>>>> SERVER
>>>>>>
>>>>>> "Alex" <jrwolfe@comcast.net> wrote in message
>>>>>> news:urTSE3PjIHA.536@TK2MSFTNGP06.phx.gbl...
>>>>>>> I'm running a dual boot system with Windows XP Pro on disk1 and
>>>>>>> Server 2003 on disk2. Windows XP is the default configuration.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> If I'm sitting in front of this computer, I can easily select which
>>>>>>> OS to boot by choosing one of the two operating systems which appear
>>>>>>> on the screen. However, I have to make this choice by going through
>>>>>>> two separate screens as seen below:
>>>>>>> ---------------------------------------
>>>>>>> First Screen
>>>>>>> Earlier Version of Windows
>>>>>>> Microsoft Server 2003
>>>>>>> ----------------------------------------
>>>>>>> -----------------------------
>>>>>>> Second Screen
>>>>>>> Windows XP Pro
>>>>>>> Microsoft Server 2003
>>>>>>> -------------------------------
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> My question why the two screens, why aren't the choices just Windows
>>>>>>> XP Pro or Microsoft Server 2003 on the first screen?
>>>>>>> Note: I did do a clean re-install of XP a few weeks ago and then
>>>>>>> installed Server 2003 on the second drive.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Below is my boot.ini
>>>>>>> [boot loader]
>>>>>>> timeout=15
>>>>>>> default=multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS
>>>>>>> [operating systems]
>>>>>>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows XP
>>>>>>> Professional" /NOEXECUTE=OPTIN /FASTDETECT
>>>>>>> multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(1)partition(1)\WINDOWS="Microsoft Windows
>>>>>>> Server 2003" /NOEXECUTE=OPTOUT /FASTDETECT
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> TIA
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Alex
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>
>

Dual Boot Problem-Revisited

Alex

Pegasus \(MVP\)

Jerry

Alex

Pegasus \(MVP\)

Pegasus \(MVP\)

Alex

AJR

Pegasus \(MVP\)

Alex

Alex

Pegasus \(MVP\)

Alex

Pegasus \(MVP\)

Alex

Andy

Alex

Pegasus \(MVP\)

Alex

Alex

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