MBR Error - Errors with partitions?

Question

I am getting an MBR error on my computer as soon as I boot up. I am getting advice that this indicats an error with a partition on my computer.

1. How fixable is this?
2. What is the chance that my data is able to be recovered?
3. If it can't be recovered can I still get the computer in working order again?
4. I'm fed up with PCs, my boyfriend lost his data to a partition error 6 mos ago. Should I switch to Mac, how often do Macs really "crash" or am I just having a string of bad luck!?

Need answers, especially 1, 2 & 3! Thanks!

Answer 1

1) Take a look at this link for a description of commands from Microsoft that allow fixing of the MBR: http://www.ntfs.com/mbr-damaged.htm

2) If the FDISK.exe command can not fix the MBR, you can try disk recovery software (available online or from most computer retailers)

3) As long as the disk itself does not have problems, you can reinstall the OS and it should work.

4) PCs are generally reliable as long as you are working with quality components. If this is a home built system you can easily find components that have lots of features but less than reliable performance. Essentially the builder needs to look at reviews for the new component and consider past performance.

You can certainly consider a Mac as long as you check that any software you are currently using is compatible with the OS.

Oh, take a look at what disk drive manufacturer you are using. I've had a lot of bad luck with Maxtor drives and stay away from them. On the other hand, many people have success with their drives too. Personally I'll avoid them on any future systems.

Answer 2

There is a good chance you can still get your data. The drive is not bootable, but you could slave it as a second drive on a system. Also get a bootable device and boot to DOS, then run MBR /F command or get a MBR fixer program.

Answer 3

get carry of and burn Hiren's bootcd, boot into Mini domicile windows XP, open HBCD menu, goto the partition area, and open partition wizard. suitable click on the force and decide rebuild mbr, then choose prepare.