my computer will not boot at all -- help!

[theRealMacoy]

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Before reinstalling there's other options to try. First try disconnecting all external peripherals except the keyboard and the monitor. Anything connected could be causing the system to lock up. If at this point it does boot up then connect each peripheral one at a time rebooting each time to test. You also mentioned that when you enter Safe Mode it throws the list of files and directories across the screen but gets no further. This is important. The last file that it lists is generally where the system is locking up. Look to what that file is referring to and that may be a hint as to what is causing the problem.

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agar316,

i would really really like to save my data!
thank you for your advice.

perhaps you can help interpret the meaning of the last entry? ...when i get home i will try and access it...

thanks,
sean

ps...damn, i have been stressed all day...it is really stressful when your computer goes down!