Windows 95/98 forum: Windows 98 hangs at splash screen and won't start.

1. Create a Bootlog.txt (hidden file in the root of C:\). When starting the computer, use the Startup Menu to create a one-time Bootlog.txt file. Please be advised that Windows will boot much slower during the process.

Note: When examining this file in any text editor -- Notepad in Windows, or simply typing the following command at the MS-DOS prompt and then pressing Enter (clicking the icon in front of MS_DOS Prompt in the top colored bar provides MS-DOS commands), look for lines ending in LoadFailure which may indicate either a device or software problem.

edit bootlog.txt

2. The article [Q127970] discusses the hidden Bootlog.txt file located in the root folder, describes content, and explains certain items that may be indicated as a Load Failed which does not necessarily indicate a problem.

3. The article [Q118579] explains the root folder text file Msdos.sys set with Read-Only, System, and Hidden attributes, that this file is set to be at least 1,024 bytes in length, and describes the [Options] section that contain the settings and their meaning. Instructions are contained which allows a user to set certain options which creates the Bootlog.txt file during boot.

Bill Gaston

Corrupt fonts can make this OS fail.

Move them out to another directory (or get good ones) after listing the corrupt font filenames for a doublecheck here to see if they are core OS fonts.

Bob

If the system won't let you move it, I'm a bit confused since it appears Windows has actually booted.

A rollup to the top is now required since I was under the impression that Windows was not booting.

Bob

I can only boot to safe mode. That is where I was able
to move all the fonts out of the Windows\fonts except for
the one. When trying to move it, the message was that
to make sure it was not being used. It appears that that
the system is using it, that's why it can't be moved. I have gone through the troubleshooting guide mentioned and cannot pinpoint why the system will not boot up to normal mode. That is why I am seeking 2nd opinions, (and yours it the best). I am now thinking that my best option will
be to reformat the HD and re-install Windows 98.
JIm

failure to load a number of ttf files - truetype fonts

I've never seen a ttf files - truetype fonts listing any any of my Bootlog.txt files for Win98FE. Several .fon files - for raster fonts however.

Bill

http://support.microsoft.com/?id=188867 titled "Troubleshooting Windows 98 Startup Problems" is what I look at.

Bob

If you can get to the safe mode, go into the properties of MyComputer (right click), highlight the device manager tab, look for any devices with a question mark. Deleted them and try reboot after that. This may clear up your booting problem.