i couldn't get into XP as this error came up when trying safe mode, last known good config (never had one), and normal boot. basically had to reinstall XP again, well, it didn't work properly then, prob won't now that its installed again, but at least i get a nice boot loader that says "Win XP".

cheers for the help lads.

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"WinXPro loves my laptop, loathes my PC :-/"