Start ->All Programs (nothing is appearing after accidental shutdo

[dareys]

To whom it may concern,

After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.

I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding potential
solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing has solved the
problem so far.

I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and solved this
problem.

Thank you.

Jean-Pierre

P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.

 

[Don Phillipson]

Jean-Pierre "dareys" <dareys@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:51161FC8-54A8-4F2C-A18C-E5E5A9D9833A@microsoft.com...

> To whom it may concern,
>
> After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
> programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
>
> I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding
potential
> solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing has solved the
> problem so far.

Start / Programs is only a Windows folder like other
Windows folder, but contains only LNK files (shortcuts)
pointing to the actual programs. This makes it easy to
customize. Default location is
c:\windows\start menu
and default contents are subfolders
c:\windows\start menu\applications
c:\windows\start menu\communications
c:\windows\start menu\programs
and several more.

1. In EXPLORER (My Computer) go to
c:\windows
and look inside it for
c:\windows\start menu
If you do not find it, do / File / New / Folder
to create a new subfolder named
Start Menu

2. Create a couple of Desktop Shortcuts and
move them into c:\windows\start menu.
When you key START you willl see these immediately,
listed above Programs, Settings, Find, Help, Run
I use this for a few programmes run every day, e.g.
sound editor, Internet browser, Email tool, Copernic.

3. Create (if needed) c:\windows\start menu\Programs and
put inside it any subfolders convenient to group similar
programmes together. E.g. I have
c:\windows\start menu\Programs\Graphics
to hold three or four different graphic editing apps
c:\windows\start menu\Programs\Genealogy
for two different apps and
c:\windows\start menu\Programs\Telephone
to telephone from the keyboard, etc. Installation
routines have already created by themselves
c:\windows\start menu\Programs\Open Office
which I leave intact (with their subfolders) until I
get used to it, and
c:\windows\start menu\Programs\Corel, with
subfolders including (as well as Quattro and Word
Perfect) lots of junk about help files, registration
etc., that I delete as convenient, because never used.

In other words we can configure or change
c:\windows\start menu\Programs\
and other contents of / Start / Programs
to contain only what we want, arranged as we prefer.

--
Don Phillipson
Carlsbad Springs
(Ottawa, Canada)

 

[MEB]

In news:51161FC8-54A8-4F2C-A18C-E5E5A9D9833A@microsoft.com at ,
dareys contemplated and posted:
| To whom it may concern,
|
| After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
| programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
|
| I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding
| potential solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing has
| solved the problem so far.
|
| I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and solved
| this problem.
|
| Thank you.
|
| Jean-Pierre
|
| P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.

First check the msdos.sys file at the root of the drive. It should look
something like:
[Paths]
WinDir=C:\WINDOWS
WinBootDir=C:\WINDOWS
HostWinBootDrv=C

[Options]
BootMulti=1
BootMenu=1
BootGUI=1
DoubleBuffer=1
AutoScan=1
Logo=0
WinVer=4.10.2222

Your BootMenu is likely 0, as well as your Logo [I always start with the
Menu and disable the Logo] and your [Paths] may be different. Make sure that
it also contains the buffering/compatability lines.
--------

*IF* you haven't attempted too many re-starts. you may be able to revert to
an older registry from before the errors began.
The backups are located in, and as :
C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb000.cab
C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb001.cab
C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb002.cab
C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb004.cab
C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb005.cab
C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rbbad.cab

You will need the show hidden files checked, and hide known extensions
unchecked. Adjust the above to your Windows directory.
Look at the *dates* for one [or ones] prior to the error beginning.
Write the name down, re-start tap F8 repeatedly to get to the menu -
Command Prompt only, type - scanreg /restore and choose the one you found.
While still at the command prompt type: Find autoexec.* - you are looking to
see if there is a autoexec.wus or other indication of a locked-in startup.
Check within the autoexecs with Edit to see if there may be some
over-riding command interpreter [should be command.com] or file manager
[should be none] also check the config.sys files.

** Also while at the prompt check the win.ini and sys.ini by typing:
cd {windir}
edit system.ini and look for something similar to this:
[boot]
oemfonts.fon=vgaoem.fon
system.drv=system.drv
drivers=mmsystem.dll power.drv
shell=Explorer.exe
user.exe=user.exe
gdi.exe=gdi.exe
sound.drv=mmsound.drv
dibeng.drv=dibeng.dll
comm.drv=comm.drv
mouse.drv=LMouse.Drv
keyboard.drv=keyboard.drv
*DisplayFallback=0
fonts.fon=vgasys.fon
fixedfon.fon=vgafix.fon
386Grabber=vgafull.3gr
display.drv=pnpdrvr.drv

The oemfonts, shell, user, gdi, dibeng, and system.drv are generally the
same for a "normal" system though non-english versions may have differring
fonts, and other.

** Also check the win.ini:
[windows]
load=
run=
NullPort=None
device=EPSON Stylus COLOR 440,EPIJNL20,LPT1:

Your device= line will likely be different

**Check the registry:

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder]

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\open\command]
@="C:\\WINDOWS\\Explorer.exe /idlist,%I,%L"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore]
@=""

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\ddeexec]
"NoActivateHandler"=""
@="[ExploreFolder(\"%l\", %I, %S)]"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\ddeexec\application]
@="Folders"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\ddeexec\topic]
@="AppProperties"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\ddeexec\ifexec]
@="[]"

[HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\command]
@="C:\\WINDOWS\\Explorer.exe /e,/idlist,%I,%L"

--------
As we have no idea what else you have done or were directed to do, there
are several other areas to check...

--
MEB
http://peoplescounsel.orgfree.com
--
_________

 

[PCR]

dareys wrote:
| To whom it may concern,

IMPORTANT: Just in case you need to restore a backup Registry (& need
to try more than one), make a copy of the backups FIRST. This is
because, even as you restore them, the oldest backup gets wiped
out...!...

(a) Make a folder named "C:\RegBckUp".
(b) "START button, Find, F/F, RB???.cab".
Five or six should show up, all in...
"C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP"
(c) Highlight the group (select 1st, hold shift, select last).
(d) R-Clk the group, & select "Copy".
(e) Paste the group into C:\RegBckUp.

| After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
| programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.

You mean..?.. "Start menu, Programs"

First, ensure (though I think you already said) that hidden files will
show up in Explorer...

"START button, Settings, Folder Options, View tab"
Bolt "Show all files" & UNcheck "Hide file extensions..."

Next...

(1) R-Clk the Toolbar, & select Properties.
(2) Click the Start Menu Programs tab.
(3) Click the Advanced button.
Do you see "Programs" in the left pane?
R-Clk it, select Properties. If it is checked Hidden-- UNcheck
that.
(4) Click the plus sign left of Programs.
Do you see all the other folders?
Ensure they are not Hidden.
(5) Click each folder.
Do you see the shortcuts in the right pane?
Spot check that the shortcuts are not Hidden too, I guess.

If everything looks good with that, then verify this Registry key...

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\She
ll Folders
Programs "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu\Programs"
Start Menu "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu"

That is...

(a) "ATART button, Run, RegEdit"
(b) Click plus signs, beginning left of "HKEY_CURRENT_USER",
& ending left of "Explorer".
(c) Click "Shell Folders" in the left pane, & look in the right pane.
Do you see what I posted above?

If you don't see them...

(d) "R-Clk the R-Pane, New, String Value".
Use the names: Programs & Start Menu
(e) R-Clk "Programs", & select "Modify".
Paste "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu\Programs" (no quotes)
into Value Data. The quotes will add automatically.
(f) R-Clk "Start Menu", & select "Modify".
Paste "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu" (no quotes)
into Value Data. The quotes will add automatically.

| I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding
| potential solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing has
| solved the problem so far.
|
| I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and solved
| this problem.
|
| Thank you.
|
| Jean-Pierre
|
| P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.

--
Thanks or Good Luck,
There may be humor in this post, and,
Naturally, you will not sue,
Should things get worse after this,
PCR
pcrrcp@netzero.net

 

[glee]

"dareys" <dareys@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:51161FC8-54A8-4F2C-A18C-E5E5A9D9833A@microsoft.com...
> To whom it may concern,
>
> After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
> programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
> snip

"All Programs" is on the Windows XP Start Menu
"Programs" is on the Windows 98 Start Menu

Are you using WinXP or Win98?
Do you see Programs, or All Programs?
--
Glen Ventura, MS MVP Windows, A+
http://dts-l.net/
http://dts-l.net/goodpost.htm

 

[glee]

"dareys" <dareys@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:51161FC8-54A8-4F2C-A18C-E5E5A9D9833A@microsoft.com...
> To whom it may concern,
>
> After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
> programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
>
> I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding potential
> solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing has solved the
> problem so far.
>
> I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and solved this
> problem.
>
> Thank you.
>
> Jean-Pierre
>
> P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.

Assuming you are in fact using Win98, open Windows Explorer or My Computer, and
navigate to the C:\Windows\Start Menu\Programs folder.

Does the folder exist?
Are you missing program shortcuts in it?
Are there also sub-folders in it for some of your programs?

Do you have TweakUI installed?
--
Glen Ventura, MS MVP Windows, A+
http://dts-l.net/
http://dts-l.net/goodpost.htm

 

[dareys]

Re: Start ->All Programs (nothing is appearing after accidental sh

Don,

Thank you for the response.

I figured all of this out by exploring. But thank you for confirming. Yes,
it is just another folder with .lnk files in it. I actually asked Microsoft
Technical Support to teach me how to create them but they apparently did not
know how.

I considered the creating shortcuts in the folder but the users did not
indicate exactly what programs they wanted there, I was pressed for time and
thus opted for a very costly but effective solution.

I just duplicated all the necessary software into the directory at the
expense of some disk space. If I have time and enough feedback from the
users, who at this point may not care, I will try the shortcut approach.

Thank you.

Jean-Pierre


"Don Phillipson" wrote:

> Jean-Pierre "dareys" <dareys@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
> news:51161FC8-54A8-4F2C-A18C-E5E5A9D9833A@microsoft.com...
>
> > To whom it may concern,
> >
> > After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
> > programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
> >
> > I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding
> potential
> > solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing has solved the
> > problem so far.
>
> Start / Programs is only a Windows folder like other
> Windows folder, but contains only LNK files (shortcuts)
> pointing to the actual programs. This makes it easy to
> customize. Default location is
> c:\windows\start menu
> and default contents are subfolders
> c:\windows\start menu\applications
> c:\windows\start menu\communications
> c:\windows\start menu\programs
> and several more.
>
> 1. In EXPLORER (My Computer) go to
> c:\windows
> and look inside it for
> c:\windows\start menu
> If you do not find it, do / File / New / Folder
> to create a new subfolder named
> Start Menu
>
> 2. Create a couple of Desktop Shortcuts and
> move them into c:\windows\start menu.
> When you key START you willl see these immediately,
> listed above Programs, Settings, Find, Help, Run
> I use this for a few programmes run every day, e.g.
> sound editor, Internet browser, Email tool, Copernic.
>
> 3. Create (if needed) c:\windows\start menu\Programs and
> put inside it any subfolders convenient to group similar
> programmes together. E.g. I have
> c:\windows\start menu\Programs\Graphics
> to hold three or four different graphic editing apps
> c:\windows\start menu\Programs\Genealogy
> for two different apps and
> c:\windows\start menu\Programs\Telephone
> to telephone from the keyboard, etc. Installation
> routines have already created by themselves
> c:\windows\start menu\Programs\Open Office
> which I leave intact (with their subfolders) until I
> get used to it, and
> c:\windows\start menu\Programs\Corel, with
> subfolders including (as well as Quattro and Word
> Perfect) lots of junk about help files, registration
> etc., that I delete as convenient, because never used.
>
> In other words we can configure or change
> c:\windows\start menu\Programs\
> and other contents of / Start / Programs
> to contain only what we want, arranged as we prefer.
>
> --
> Don Phillipson
> Carlsbad Springs
> (Ottawa, Canada)
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

 

[dareys]

Re: Start ->All Programs (nothing is appearing after accidental sh

MEB,

Thank you for the response.

I actually tried the .cab revert option and the hidden file issue without
luck.

If I have the time I will check the other options you offer, although I have
solved the problem as best I could.

Thank you.

Jean-Pierre


"MEB" wrote:

> In news:51161FC8-54A8-4F2C-A18C-E5E5A9D9833A@microsoft.com at ,
> dareys contemplated and posted:
> | To whom it may concern,
> |
> | After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
> | programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
> |
> | I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding
> | potential solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing has
> | solved the problem so far.
> |
> | I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and solved
> | this problem.
> |
> | Thank you.
> |
> | Jean-Pierre
> |
> | P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.
>
> First check the msdos.sys file at the root of the drive. It should look
> something like:
> [Paths]
> WinDir=C:\WINDOWS
> WinBootDir=C:\WINDOWS
> HostWinBootDrv=C
>
> [Options]
> BootMulti=1
> BootMenu=1
> BootGUI=1
> DoubleBuffer=1
> AutoScan=1
> Logo=0
> WinVer=4.10.2222
>
> Your BootMenu is likely 0, as well as your Logo [I always start with the
> Menu and disable the Logo] and your [Paths] may be different. Make sure that
> it also contains the buffering/compatability lines.
> --------
>
> *IF* you haven't attempted too many re-starts. you may be able to revert to
> an older registry from before the errors began.
> The backups are located in, and as :
> C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb000.cab
> C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb001.cab
> C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb002.cab
> C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb004.cab
> C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb005.cab
> C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rbbad.cab
>
> You will need the show hidden files checked, and hide known extensions
> unchecked. Adjust the above to your Windows directory.
> Look at the *dates* for one [or ones] prior to the error beginning.
> Write the name down, re-start tap F8 repeatedly to get to the menu -
> Command Prompt only, type - scanreg /restore and choose the one you found.
> While still at the command prompt type: Find autoexec.* - you are looking to
> see if there is a autoexec.wus or other indication of a locked-in startup.
> Check within the autoexecs with Edit to see if there may be some
> over-riding command interpreter [should be command.com] or file manager
> [should be none] also check the config.sys files.
>
> ** Also while at the prompt check the win.ini and sys.ini by typing:
> cd {windir}
> edit system.ini and look for something similar to this:
> [boot]
> oemfonts.fon=vgaoem.fon
> system.drv=system.drv
> drivers=mmsystem.dll power.drv
> shell=Explorer.exe
> user.exe=user.exe
> gdi.exe=gdi.exe
> sound.drv=mmsound.drv
> dibeng.drv=dibeng.dll
> comm.drv=comm.drv
> mouse.drv=LMouse.Drv
> keyboard.drv=keyboard.drv
> *DisplayFallback=0
> fonts.fon=vgasys.fon
> fixedfon.fon=vgafix.fon
> 386Grabber=vgafull.3gr
> display.drv=pnpdrvr.drv
>
> The oemfonts, shell, user, gdi, dibeng, and system.drv are generally the
> same for a "normal" system though non-english versions may have differring
> fonts, and other.
>
> ** Also check the win.ini:
> [windows]
> load=
> run=
> NullPort=None
> device=EPSON Stylus COLOR 440,EPIJNL20,LPT1:
>
> Your device= line will likely be different
>
> **Check the registry:
>
> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder]
>
> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\open\command]
> @="C:\\WINDOWS\\Explorer.exe /idlist,%I,%L"
>
> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore]
> @=""
>
> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\ddeexec]
> "NoActivateHandler"=""
> @="[ExploreFolder(\"%l\", %I, %S)]"
>
> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\ddeexec\application]
> @="Folders"
>
> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\ddeexec\topic]
> @="AppProperties"
>
> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\ddeexec\ifexec]
> @="[]"
>
> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\command]
> @="C:\\WINDOWS\\Explorer.exe /e,/idlist,%I,%L"
>
> --------
> As we have no idea what else you have done or were directed to do, there
> are several other areas to check...
>
> --
> MEB
> http://peoplescounsel.orgfree.com
> --
> _________
>
>
>
>
>

 

[dareys]

Re: Start ->All Programs (nothing is appearing after accidental sh

PCR,

Thank you for the response.

I did backup the registry prior to attempting any changes.

I checked hidden files.

I will view the registry, although I have solved the problem as best I could.

I appreciate the very detailed instructions.

Regards,

Jean-Pierre




"PCR" wrote:

> dareys wrote:
> | To whom it may concern,
>
> IMPORTANT: Just in case you need to restore a backup Registry (& need
> to try more than one), make a copy of the backups FIRST. This is
> because, even as you restore them, the oldest backup gets wiped
> out...!...
>
> (a) Make a folder named "C:\RegBckUp".
> (b) "START button, Find, F/F, RB???.cab".
> Five or six should show up, all in...
> "C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP"
> (c) Highlight the group (select 1st, hold shift, select last).
> (d) R-Clk the group, & select "Copy".
> (e) Paste the group into C:\RegBckUp.
>
> | After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
> | programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
>
> You mean..?.. "Start menu, Programs"
>
> First, ensure (though I think you already said) that hidden files will
> show up in Explorer...
>
> "START button, Settings, Folder Options, View tab"
> Bolt "Show all files" & UNcheck "Hide file extensions..."
>
> Next...
>
> (1) R-Clk the Toolbar, & select Properties.
> (2) Click the Start Menu Programs tab.
> (3) Click the Advanced button.
> Do you see "Programs" in the left pane?
> R-Clk it, select Properties. If it is checked Hidden-- UNcheck
> that.
> (4) Click the plus sign left of Programs.
> Do you see all the other folders?
> Ensure they are not Hidden.
> (5) Click each folder.
> Do you see the shortcuts in the right pane?
> Spot check that the shortcuts are not Hidden too, I guess.
>
> If everything looks good with that, then verify this Registry key...
>
> HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\She
> ll Folders
> Programs "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu\Programs"
> Start Menu "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu"
>
> That is...
>
> (a) "ATART button, Run, RegEdit"
> (b) Click plus signs, beginning left of "HKEY_CURRENT_USER",
> & ending left of "Explorer".
> (c) Click "Shell Folders" in the left pane, & look in the right pane.
> Do you see what I posted above?
>
> If you don't see them...
>
> (d) "R-Clk the R-Pane, New, String Value".
> Use the names: Programs & Start Menu
> (e) R-Clk "Programs", & select "Modify".
> Paste "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu\Programs" (no quotes)
> into Value Data. The quotes will add automatically.
> (f) R-Clk "Start Menu", & select "Modify".
> Paste "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu" (no quotes)
> into Value Data. The quotes will add automatically.
>
> | I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding
> | potential solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing has
> | solved the problem so far.
> |
> | I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and solved
> | this problem.
> |
> | Thank you.
> |
> | Jean-Pierre
> |
> | P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.
>
> --
> Thanks or Good Luck,
> There may be humor in this post, and,
> Naturally, you will not sue,
> Should things get worse after this,
> PCR
> pcrrcp@netzero.net
>
>
>

 

[dareys]

Re: Start ->All Programs (nothing is appearing after accidental sh

glee,

I was using a Windows 98 computer, and I saw Programs. Please see the other
threads for more information. Thank you.

Jean-Pierre


"glee" wrote:

> "dareys" <dareys@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
> news:51161FC8-54A8-4F2C-A18C-E5E5A9D9833A@microsoft.com...
> > To whom it may concern,
> >
> > After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
> > programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
> > snip
>
> "All Programs" is on the Windows XP Start Menu
> "Programs" is on the Windows 98 Start Menu
>
> Are you using WinXP or Win98?
> Do you see Programs, or All Programs?
> --
> Glen Ventura, MS MVP Windows, A+
> http://dts-l.net/
> http://dts-l.net/goodpost.htm
>
>

 

[dareys]

Re: Start ->All Programs (nothing is appearing after accidental sh

glee,

Thanks again. No there were no programs and no, I don´t have TweakUI
installed on that computer... Any ideas?

Jean-Pierre


"glee" wrote:

> "dareys" <dareys@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
> news:51161FC8-54A8-4F2C-A18C-E5E5A9D9833A@microsoft.com...
> > To whom it may concern,
> >
> > After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
> > programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
> >
> > I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding potential
> > solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing has solved the
> > problem so far.
> >
> > I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and solved this
> > problem.
> >
> > Thank you.
> >
> > Jean-Pierre
> >
> > P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.
>
> Assuming you are in fact using Win98, open Windows Explorer or My Computer, and
> navigate to the C:\Windows\Start Menu\Programs folder.
>
> Does the folder exist?
> Are you missing program shortcuts in it?
> Are there also sub-folders in it for some of your programs?
>
> Do you have TweakUI installed?
> --
> Glen Ventura, MS MVP Windows, A+
> http://dts-l.net/
> http://dts-l.net/goodpost.htm
>
>

 

[MEB]

Re: Start ->All Programs (nothing is appearing after accidental sh

In news:857DB2F5-9AC9-498C-B96F-39C5DEBE5CD3@microsoft.com at ,
dareys contemplated and posted:
| MEB,
|
| Thank you for the response.
|
| I actually tried the .cab revert option and the hidden file issue
| without luck.
|
| If I have the time I will check the other options you offer, although
| I have solved the problem as best I could.
|
| Thank you.
|
| Jean-Pierre


AAAHHH, I see you have multiple users, hence POLICIES involved... your
duplication method would work for those issues, IN A PINCH, which it
apparently was... might want to check for what policies have been emplaced
as you will likely have other issues as time progresses.
Any properly setup network/multi user system should have an Administrator's
disk somewhere, see if it can be located OR look at the *.pwl and *.acl
files, and other USER specific folders, settings, and files.

|
|
| "MEB" wrote:
|
|> In news:51161FC8-54A8-4F2C-A18C-E5E5A9D9833A@microsoft.com at ,
|> dareys contemplated and posted:
|> | To whom it may concern,
|> |
|> | After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was
|> | using, no programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
|> |
|> | I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding
|> | potential solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing
|> | has solved the problem so far.
|> |
|> | I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and
|> | solved this problem.
|> |
|> | Thank you.
|> |
|> | Jean-Pierre
|> |
|> | P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.
|>
|> First check the msdos.sys file at the root of the drive. It should
|> look something like:
|> [Paths]
|> WinDir=C:\WINDOWS
|> WinBootDir=C:\WINDOWS
|> HostWinBootDrv=C
|>
|> [Options]
|> BootMulti=1
|> BootMenu=1
|> BootGUI=1
|> DoubleBuffer=1
|> AutoScan=1
|> Logo=0
|> WinVer=4.10.2222
|>
|> Your BootMenu is likely 0, as well as your Logo [I always start
|> with the Menu and disable the Logo] and your [Paths] may be
|> different. Make sure that it also contains the
|> buffering/compatability lines. --------
|>
|> *IF* you haven't attempted too many re-starts. you may be able to
|> revert to an older registry from before the errors began.
|> The backups are located in, and as :
|> C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb000.cab
|> C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb001.cab
|> C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb002.cab
|> C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb004.cab
|> C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rb005.cab
|> C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP\rbbad.cab
|>
|> You will need the show hidden files checked, and hide known
|> extensions unchecked. Adjust the above to your Windows directory.
|> Look at the *dates* for one [or ones] prior to the error beginning.
|> Write the name down, re-start tap F8 repeatedly to get to the menu -
|> Command Prompt only, type - scanreg /restore and choose the one you
|> found. While still at the command prompt type: Find autoexec.* - you
|> are looking to see if there is a autoexec.wus or other indication of
|> a locked-in startup. Check within the autoexecs with Edit to see if
|> there may be some over-riding command interpreter [should be
|> command.com] or file manager [should be none] also check the
|> config.sys files.
|>
|> ** Also while at the prompt check the win.ini and sys.ini by typing:
|> cd {windir}
|> edit system.ini and look for something similar to this:
|> [boot]
|> oemfonts.fon=vgaoem.fon
|> system.drv=system.drv
|> drivers=mmsystem.dll power.drv
|> shell=Explorer.exe
|> user.exe=user.exe
|> gdi.exe=gdi.exe
|> sound.drv=mmsound.drv
|> dibeng.drv=dibeng.dll
|> comm.drv=comm.drv
|> mouse.drv=LMouse.Drv
|> keyboard.drv=keyboard.drv
|> *DisplayFallback=0
|> fonts.fon=vgasys.fon
|> fixedfon.fon=vgafix.fon
|> 386Grabber=vgafull.3gr
|> display.drv=pnpdrvr.drv
|>
|> The oemfonts, shell, user, gdi, dibeng, and system.drv are
|> generally the same for a "normal" system though non-english
|> versions may have differring fonts, and other.
|>
|> ** Also check the win.ini:
|> [windows]
|> load=
|> run=
|> NullPort=None
|> device=EPSON Stylus COLOR 440,EPIJNL20,LPT1:
|>
|> Your device= line will likely be different
|>
|> **Check the registry:
|>
|> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder]
|>
|> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\open\command]
|> @="C:\\WINDOWS\\Explorer.exe /idlist,%I,%L"
|>
|> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore]
|> @=""
|>
|> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\ddeexec]
|> "NoActivateHandler"=""
|> @="[ExploreFolder(\"%l\", %I, %S)]"
|>
|> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\ddeexec\application]
|> @="Folders"
|>
|> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\ddeexec\topic]
|> @="AppProperties"
|>
|> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\ddeexec\ifexec]
|> @="[]"
|>
|> [HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\Folder\shell\explore\command]
|> @="C:\\WINDOWS\\Explorer.exe /e,/idlist,%I,%L"
|>
|> --------
|> As we have no idea what else you have done or were directed to do,
|> there are several other areas to check...
|>
|> --
|> MEB
|> http://peoplescounsel.orgfree.com
|> --
|> _________

--
MEB
http://peoplescounsel.orgfree.com
--
_________

 

[PCR]

Re: Start ->All Programs (nothing is appearing after accidental sh

dareys wrote:
| PCR,
|
| Thank you for the response.
|
| I did backup the registry prior to attempting any changes.

That's different from what I said. If you made a fresh Registry backup
("START button, Run, ScanReg"), it actually wiped out your oldest backup
to add the fresh one. This is because only 5 usable backups are normally
kept in C:\Windows\SysBckUp. When adding a fresh one, the oldest one
needs to be deleted. What I suggested was to make a copy of all the
current backups FIRST, before doing anything else dealing with those
backups.

It's fairly stupid-- but MS wrote things so that even restoring one
wipes out the oldest one of the 5 usable ones kept! It puts the current
Registry (the one being replaced, i.e., System.dat, User.dat, System.ini
& User.ini) into RB(next available number).reg. That goes into the
backup folder directly after restoring the one you chose. To make room
for it, the oldest backup is removed! Sheesh!

SO... if you start restoring them newest to oldest, by the time you get
to the oldest (if you need to)-- it won't be there! Neither will the
2nd-to-oldest!

And you actually already had wiped out the oldest when you did that
initial ScanReg. If it said... "No errors found. The system registry has
been backed up already today. Would you like to back it up again?"...
probably it were best to click no! You've already got today's-- it was
made automatically at boot!

| I checked hidden files.

OK. Very good on that.

| I will view the registry, although I have solved the problem as best
| I could.

Alright. If you have multiple users, maybe look at...

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Use
r Shell Folders

....as well. But I'm no expert on multiple users. Glee will be better,
though he once said he doesn't do that either, I think.

Also, can it be this has to do with folder sharing at...?... "Control
Panel, Network, File & Print Sharing". I'm afraid I know little to
nothing about that too!

| I appreciate the very detailed instructions.

You are welcome.

| Regards,
|
| Jean-Pierre
|
|
|
|
| "PCR" wrote:
|
|> dareys wrote:
|> | To whom it may concern,
|>
|> IMPORTANT: Just in case you need to restore a backup Registry (&
|> need to try more than one), make a copy of the backups FIRST. This is
|> because, even as you restore them, the oldest backup gets wiped
|> out...!...
|>
|> (a) Make a folder named "C:\RegBckUp".
|> (b) "START button, Find, F/F, RB???.cab".
|> Five or six should show up, all in...
|> "C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP"
|> (c) Highlight the group (select 1st, hold shift, select last).
|> (d) R-Clk the group, & select "Copy".
|> (e) Paste the group into C:\RegBckUp.
|>
|> | After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was
|> | using, no programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
|>
|> You mean..?.. "Start menu, Programs"
|>
|> First, ensure (though I think you already said) that hidden files
|> will show up in Explorer...
|>
|> "START button, Settings, Folder Options, View tab"
|> Bolt "Show all files" & UNcheck "Hide file extensions..."
|>
|> Next...
|>
|> (1) R-Clk the Toolbar, & select Properties.
|> (2) Click the Start Menu Programs tab.
|> (3) Click the Advanced button.
|> Do you see "Programs" in the left pane?
|> R-Clk it, select Properties. If it is checked Hidden-- UNcheck
|> that.
|> (4) Click the plus sign left of Programs.
|> Do you see all the other folders?
|> Ensure they are not Hidden.
|> (5) Click each folder.
|> Do you see the shortcuts in the right pane?
|> Spot check that the shortcuts are not Hidden too, I guess.
|>
|> If everything looks good with that, then verify this Registry key...
|>
|>
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\She
|> ll Folders
|> Programs "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu\Programs"
|> Start Menu "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu"
|>
|> That is...
|>
|> (a) "ATART button, Run, RegEdit"
|> (b) Click plus signs, beginning left of "HKEY_CURRENT_USER",
|> & ending left of "Explorer".
|> (c) Click "Shell Folders" in the left pane, & look in the right pane.
|> Do you see what I posted above?
|>
|> If you don't see them...
|>
|> (d) "R-Clk the R-Pane, New, String Value".
|> Use the names: Programs & Start Menu
|> (e) R-Clk "Programs", & select "Modify".
|> Paste "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu\Programs" (no quotes)
|> into Value Data. The quotes will add automatically.
|> (f) R-Clk "Start Menu", & select "Modify".
|> Paste "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu" (no quotes)
|> into Value Data. The quotes will add automatically.
|>
|> | I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding
|> | potential solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing
|> | has solved the problem so far.
|> |
|> | I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and
|> | solved this problem.
|> |
|> | Thank you.
|> |
|> | Jean-Pierre
|> |
|> | P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.
|>
|> --
|> Thanks or Good Luck,
|> There may be humor in this post, and,
|> Naturally, you will not sue,
|> Should things get worse after this,
|> PCR
|> pcrrcp@netzero.net

--
Thanks or Good Luck,
There may be humor in this post, and,
Naturally, you will not sue,
Should things get worse after this,
PCR
pcrrcp@netzero.net

 

[PCR]

Re: Start ->All Programs (nothing is appearing after accidental sh

dareys wrote:
| PCR,
|
| Thank you for the response.
|
| I did backup the registry prior to attempting any changes.

That's different from what I said. If you made a fresh Registry backup
("START button, Run, ScanReg"), it actually wiped out your oldest backup
to add the fresh one. This is because only 5 usable backups are normally
kept in C:\Windows\SysBckUp. When adding a fresh one, the oldest one
needs to be deleted. What I suggested was to make a copy of all the
current backups FIRST, before doing anything else dealing with those
backups. (If it comes time to use one of these backups of the backups,
you have to get it back into SysBckUp & delete one of the others in
there-- because ScanReg likes only 5! In doing so, ignore RBbad.cab--
that one doesn't count!)

It's fairly stupid-- but MS wrote things so that even restoring one
wipes out the oldest one of the 5 usable ones kept! It puts the current
Registry (the one being replaced, i.e., System.dat, User.dat, System.ini
& User.ini) into RB(next available number).reg. That goes into the
backup folder directly after restoring the one you chose. To make room
for it, the oldest backup is removed! Sheesh!

SO... if you start restoring them newest to oldest, by the time you get
to the oldest (if you need to)-- it won't be there! Neither will the
2nd-to-oldest!

And you actually already had wiped out the oldest when you did that
initial ScanReg. If it said... "No errors found. The system registry has
been backed up already today. Would you like to back it up again?"...
probably it were best to click no! You've already got today's-- it was
made automatically at boot!

| I checked hidden files.

OK. Very good on that.

| I will view the registry, although I have solved the problem as best
| I could.

Alright. If you have multiple users, maybe look at...

HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\Use
r Shell Folders

....as well. But I'm no expert on multiple users. Glee will be better,
though he once said he doesn't do that either, I think.

Also, can it be this has to do with folder sharing at...?... "Control
Panel, Network, File & Print Sharing". I'm afraid I know little to
nothing about that too!

| I appreciate the very detailed instructions.

You are welcome.

| Regards,
|
| Jean-Pierre
|
|
|
|
| "PCR" wrote:
|
|> dareys wrote:
|> | To whom it may concern,
|>
|> IMPORTANT: Just in case you need to restore a backup Registry (&
|> need to try more than one), make a copy of the backups FIRST. This is
|> because, even as you restore them, the oldest backup gets wiped
|> out...!...
|>
|> (a) Make a folder named "C:\RegBckUp".
|> (b) "START button, Find, F/F, RB???.cab".
|> Five or six should show up, all in...
|> "C:\WINDOWS\SYSBCKUP"
|> (c) Highlight the group (select 1st, hold shift, select last).
|> (d) R-Clk the group, & select "Copy".
|> (e) Paste the group into C:\RegBckUp.
|>
|> | After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was
|> | using, no programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
|>
|> You mean..?.. "Start menu, Programs"
|>
|> First, ensure (though I think you already said) that hidden files
|> will show up in Explorer...
|>
|> "START button, Settings, Folder Options, View tab"
|> Bolt "Show all files" & UNcheck "Hide file extensions..."
|>
|> Next...
|>
|> (1) R-Clk the Toolbar, & select Properties.
|> (2) Click the Start Menu Programs tab.
|> (3) Click the Advanced button.
|> Do you see "Programs" in the left pane?
|> R-Clk it, select Properties. If it is checked Hidden-- UNcheck
|> that.
|> (4) Click the plus sign left of Programs.
|> Do you see all the other folders?
|> Ensure they are not Hidden.
|> (5) Click each folder.
|> Do you see the shortcuts in the right pane?
|> Spot check that the shortcuts are not Hidden too, I guess.
|>
|> If everything looks good with that, then verify this Registry key...
|>
|>
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Explorer\She
|> ll Folders
|> Programs "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu\Programs"
|> Start Menu "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu"
|>
|> That is...
|>
|> (a) "ATART button, Run, RegEdit"
|> (b) Click plus signs, beginning left of "HKEY_CURRENT_USER",
|> & ending left of "Explorer".
|> (c) Click "Shell Folders" in the left pane, & look in the right pane.
|> Do you see what I posted above?
|>
|> If you don't see them...
|>
|> (d) "R-Clk the R-Pane, New, String Value".
|> Use the names: Programs & Start Menu
|> (e) R-Clk "Programs", & select "Modify".
|> Paste "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu\Programs" (no quotes)
|> into Value Data. The quotes will add automatically.
|> (f) R-Clk "Start Menu", & select "Modify".
|> Paste "C:\WINDOWS\Start Menu" (no quotes)
|> into Value Data. The quotes will add automatically.
|>
|> | I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding
|> | potential solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing
|> | has solved the problem so far.
|> |
|> | I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and
|> | solved this problem.
|> |
|> | Thank you.
|> |
|> | Jean-Pierre
|> |
|> | P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.
|>
|> --
|> Thanks or Good Luck,
|> There may be humor in this post, and,
|> Naturally, you will not sue,
|> Should things get worse after this,
|> PCR
|> pcrrcp@netzero.net

--
Thanks or Good Luck,
There may be humor in this post, and,
Naturally, you will not sue,
Should things get worse after this,
PCR
pcrrcp@netzero.net

 

[PCR]

Re: Start ->All Programs (nothing is appearing after accidental sh

Damn-- ignore this one!



--
Thanks or Good Luck,
There may be humor in this post, and,
Naturally, you will not sue,
Should things get worse after this,
PCR
pcrrcp@netzero.net

 

[dareys]

Gentlemen,

Many thanks to all for replying to my question. Frankly I was pleasantly
surprised at the level of support I received for such an old version of the
Operating System.

In any case, I read all your suggestions and tried a number of them as I
indicated in earlier posts. And no, I had no policies, but I tried som policy
settings, which did not have effect on the problem, anyway.

I solved the problem by duplicating software at the expense of 3 Gigabytes.
Fortunately, the client was very understanding and did not really mind as
long as the functionality was restored after the abnormal shutdown.

Many thanks to all.

Jean-Pierre


"dareys" wrote:

> To whom it may concern,
>
> After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
> programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
>
> I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding potential
> solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing has solved the
> problem so far.
>
> I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and solved this
> problem.
>
> Thank you.
>
> Jean-Pierre
>
> P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.
>

 

[PCR]

dareys wrote:
| Gentlemen,
|
| Many thanks to all for replying to my question. Frankly I was
| pleasantly surprised at the level of support I received for such an
| old version of the Operating System.
|
| In any case, I read all your suggestions and tried a number of them
| as I indicated in earlier posts. And no, I had no policies, but I
| tried som policy settings, which did not have effect on the problem,
| anyway.
|
| I solved the problem by duplicating software at the expense of 3
| Gigabytes. Fortunately, the client was very understanding and did not
| really mind as long as the functionality was restored after the
| abnormal shutdown.

I'm not really happy with that! But I know little of policies,
networking, or multiple users. If those are involved, you are excused.
OTHERWISE-- go back & convert those things to shortcuts! On penalty of
exposure to 1000 RADS XP-irradiation-- if you don't!

| Many thanks to all.
|
| Jean-Pierre
|
|
| "dareys" wrote:
|
|> To whom it may concern,
|>
|> After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using,
|> no programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
|>
|> I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding
|> potential solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing
|> has solved the problem so far.
|>
|> I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and solved
|> this problem.
|>
|> Thank you.
|>
|> Jean-Pierre
|>
|> P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.

--
Thanks or Good Luck,
There may be humor in this post, and,
Naturally, you will not sue,
Should things get worse after this,
PCR
pcrrcp@netzero.net

 

[glee]

Re: Start ->All Programs (nothing is appearing after accidental sh

I don't have much to add, as you have not provided any info to work with. From the
other replies, it seems you *may* be dealing with a computer with multiple user
profiles, but I don't see a definitive statement from you as to whether profiles are
in use. Profiles would change the location of the Start Menu folders for each user.
IIRC in Win98 they would be in the Windows\Profiles folder tree.....but I never use
profiles on Win98, so I can't recall the exact folder navigation.
--
Glen Ventura, MS MVP Windows, A+
http://dts-l.net/
http://dts-l.net/goodpost.htm


"dareys" <dareys@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:A7E3F54F-2DA4-4C42-8318-FCEAA7975E79@microsoft.com...
> glee,
>
> Thanks again. No there were no programs and no, I don´t have TweakUI
> installed on that computer... Any ideas?
>
> Jean-Pierre
>
>
> "glee" wrote:
>
>> "dareys" <dareys@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
>> news:51161FC8-54A8-4F2C-A18C-E5E5A9D9833A@microsoft.com...
>> > To whom it may concern,
>> >
>> > After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
>> > programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
>> >
>> > I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding potential
>> > solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing has solved the
>> > problem so far.
>> >
>> > I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and solved this
>> > problem.
>> >
>> > Thank you.
>> >
>> > Jean-Pierre
>> >
>> > P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.
>>
>> Assuming you are in fact using Win98, open Windows Explorer or My Computer, and
>> navigate to the C:\Windows\Start Menu\Programs folder.
>>
>> Does the folder exist?
>> Are you missing program shortcuts in it?
>> Are there also sub-folders in it for some of your programs?
>>
>> Do you have TweakUI installed?
>> --
>> Glen Ventura, MS MVP Windows, A+
>> http://dts-l.net/
>> http://dts-l.net/goodpost.htm
>>
>>

 

[Shadow]

That happened once to me. The \windows\menuitems folder was
corrupted, and a scandisk put it right. Can't remember details, was
years ago.
[]'s
On Tue, 8 Jul 2008 10:24:04 -0700, dareys
<dareys@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote:

>To whom it may concern,
>
>After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
>programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
>
>I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding potential
>solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing has solved the
>problem so far.
>
>I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and solved this
>problem.
>
>Thank you.
>
>Jean-Pierre
>
>P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.

 

[Ron Badour]

I probably got into this thread too late however, what I would do is search
the drive using as the search criteria: *.lnk and see where any link
files might be located. It's possible the directory got moved somewhere due
to the bad shutdown.

--
Regards

Ron Badour
MS MVP Shell User


"dareys" <dareys@discussions.microsoft.com> wrote in message
news:51161FC8-54A8-4F2C-A18C-E5E5A9D9833A@microsoft.com...
> To whom it may concern,
>
> After an accidental shutdown of the Windows 98 machine I was using, no
> programs are listed under Start -> All Programs.
>
> I have been interacting with Microsoft Technical Support regarding
> potential
> solutions and have received some good tips, but nothing has solved the
> problem so far.
>
> I would like to hear from anyone who may have experienced and solved this
> problem.
>
> Thank you.
>
> Jean-Pierre
>
> P.S. I have verified the folder shows hidden files.
>