I have a PC upstairs which won't respond in normal mode, just a blank screen, I can only get to my files in Safe mode, which gives limited options. The PC has Windows ME on it. I am typing this on the family laptop downstairs. The problem seems to be with the startup menu. What should I try to get the computer working again? Do I have to go to the lengths of copying the files I need on a CD, and reformatting my computer and starting all over again, or is there a shorter way? The PC has loads of memory etc, but is not a known make, was put together by a friend who's gone to the states and is not contactable. I'm not technically minded, please give me a simply worded answer if possible!

Since you say that the problem is with the Startup menu then you can use the MSCONFIG tool to attempt to fix it. Here is a link to a site with a good explanation of how to use it: http://netsquirrel.com/msconfig/

Let us know if you have any questions about any of the entries you find in the Startup tab.

Hi, Anys,
This may or may not work, but it's worth a try.
When you turn on the computer, press and hold down the F8 key.
This should take you to a menu or options screen.
Use the arrow keys to select the C> prompt.
At the C prompt, type in scanreg /restore. There is a space between the g and the /.
You will see C:>scanreg /restore, then press Enter.
Use the arrow keys to select a previous date for the Registry, such as 3 days ago maybe, and press Enter.
This will make the computer use a previous registry.
When the pop-up says "finished" or some such, then manually turn off the computer, wait a few seconds, and turn it back on.
Hopefull, it will come back up to the normal desktop.
Best wishes.