C000021a {FATAL SYSTEM ERROR}

Trying to install on spare laptop and install crashes with following error.

C000021a {FATAL SYSTEM ERROR}

Russ

If my memory serves me right, that's a fairly generic message (i.e. XP, Vista as well as 7) that normally suggests needing to install 3rd party drivers for the SATA controller - assuming indeed this is a SATA based laptop and you can get far enough to do that.

Here you go this should help :

http://healyourchurchwebsite.com/200...-with-knoppix/

Sorry wasn't very clear in that op.

I get the error message as install it might try wipe the hard drive first in case that is causing it to have a paddy.

Russ

I might try and wipe install vista and then either do upgrade or duel boot.

Russ

Model of laptop would be useful, if it's using a SATA hard disk, might be worth trying disabling AHCI in the BIOS to see if this allows it to get further and then look at the chipset driver stuff so as to enable AHCI again.

Surely Windows 7 must have a much larger driver database than Windows XP and Vista put together? If Vista can manage it, then so should Windows 7 I would of thought.

As far as I am aware, that error points to a memory problem. Interesting that it works for Vista. If possible, try reseating the memory, a different slot or try a different stick altogether.

Not sure if work on vista just downloading the dvd from technet to try. As for spec will tell you later once looked (as it was spare one from the office).

Will report back later.

Russ

doh

This maybe needs cross posting with what stupid thing have you done today.

I grabbed the wrong laptop (got two the same but different spec) and can understand why the install failed on a laptop with 256mb of ram on it.

Russ

rofl - live and learn!

Just found this on wikipedia ( and although you have already solved your issue ) thought it may be useful for future reference
Advanced Host Controller Interface - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Not a totally wasted thread :)