Hey triviaace11

Maybe this article could have some interest:

Never Re-install Windows Again

- Ben

The purpose of an image is to restore the system to the state is was in at the time of the image. That includes the OS, all programs, all updates, all data, all trash, all deleted files... ie everything on a given partition. It's a sector by sector copy of the logical drive.

It's not intended to allow the reinstallation of stand-alone, time-limited GAOTD programs -- it's intended to prevent losing the programs in the first place.

You are right, an image will only put everything back as it was - you can't re-install a giveaway to a new OS or machine. Except some single programmes, when the developer gives us a normal reg.-key.
Though a lot of the games are free-standing and can be re-installed.
The reason of the GOTD project is not to minimise the developers income by changing their programmes to freeware, but giving the developers a chance to get better known and getting some feedback.

BuBBy sums it up completely in a very good comment on this in another thread :

In some cases the developers of the software might only agree to participate on the condition that the period permitting the software to be installed is limited to 24 hours.

graylox

But I don't see how a drive image is going to help him, because there has to be a reason why he is taking his computer back to factory settings. If he images the drives and then restores that drive image he is left with exactly the same image that he is trying to get rid of by taking his computer back to factory settings. It is not going to help him. It would have helped him before his computer was messed up. If he did it then, but doing it now will do absolutely nothing.

When you reinstall your OS you lose all programs on your HD. Is there any way to reinstall previously saved GAOTD programs? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

An image drive is normally used for backup and will include the original OS - not an updated OS.
So I don't think that an image drive will solve the problem stated in your first post -
but maybe I got your problem wrong ?

- Ben

You'll need two things to create an image file:

You'll need another hard drive to store the image. An external USB drive is the easiest as you just plug it in but an internal drive is faster. The prices are similar so get whatever suits you.

You need a program to create/restore the image. The free version of Macrium Reflect works well and it includes a utility to create a boot disk that you'll need if your hard drive dies. If you're using Windows7 then you already have imaging software.

How do I set up an image drive?

If you image your hard drive then you can reinstall the OS and programs as they were on the date of the backup. But with a clean install you'll lose the GAOTD programs plus all the updates to the OS and other programs that were previously downloaded, and you'll also lose the account settings for your email and internet programs.

You didn't say why you need to reinstall but if you can image your drive then do so, it will save you much grief.

The simple answer to your question is NO. when you re-install or install your operating system, you have to re-install all your other programs as well. For non-GOTD programs, it's just re-running the install programs and registering where needed using the registry codes you have (hopeuflly) saved.

GOTD products are only the one day. It is possible that a copy of the installed folder (not installer) will work but there is no guarantee and only at best a 50-50 chance of it working. Most likely, you must either wait for the product to repeat here or purchase the ones you want. After all, that is the intention of the GOTD project - give you a hint of what's available and if you like it, purchase it and other products from the company.

When you reinstall your OS you lose all programs on your HD. Is there any way to reinstall previously saved GAOTD programs? Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Well, I know, thank you.

Hi and welcome to the forums okuc!

I'm sorry, you can not reinstall the programmes you got from the GOTD Project.
Please read and follow the Terms and Conditions and the FAQ:

My system crashed. How can I reinstall products gained earlier from GOTD? All the GOTD builds can be used to install and activate the software on giveaway date only. Thus to reinstall any product you will need to purchase it from the Developer.

I often reinstall the system. Found that after each reinstall, the software can not continue to use. Into a trial version. May I ask, reinstall the system, our software how to continue to use it?

"Belarc Advisor"#!!may be not right! no my PC 8#'s only one is right did a goolge &

http://support.gateway.com/support/drivers/help/index.shtml

http://support.gateway.com/support/drivers/help/finding.shtml

How do I find my serial number?

http://search.support.gateway.com/iphrase/query?command=text&attr1=&attr2=&render=1&text=How%20do%20I%20find%20my%20serial%20number?&s=0000&t=0&q=20&w=on&datafrontpage=yes&c0=e:12//sitemap%20entitlement//:eq//eSupport&c=e:8//iphrase%20meta%20topic//:eq//Search%20All%20Support

Where is the serial number located on this computer? ( 88 % )

Q: Where is the serial number located on this computer? A: You can have Gateway find your serial number for you by clicking the "Find My Serial #" link on the My Support page. For notebooks purchased after October of 2008, the serial number will be 22 characters long on a white label on the bottom of the notebook.

Arrow Notebook Computers ( 76 % )

The serial number label for Gateway® notebooks is always located on the bottom of the notebook. You can have us find your serial number for you by clicking the "Find My Serial #" link on the My Support page. The serial number label location and information varies by model and features ordered.

http://support.gateway.com/support/drivers/assistant/default.asp

Gateway Download Assistant, Download NowFAQs

Gateway Download Assistant is a small, ActiveX-based application designed to assist users with downloading, extracting, and installing drivers from the Gateway Support Web site. After successful installation of this file, the Gateway Download Assistant will provide you an easy-to-use interface when downloading Gateway-certified drivers and updates from My Downloads or Browse All Downloads.
Application
Requirements : Windows XP, Windows 2000
Internet Explorer 5.01, Microsoft .NET Framework 1.0

That backup program you used puts all of your files into one folder. I never figured out why backup programs do that when putting the files into a subdirectory instead of the root directory will never restore the entire system.

My best guess as to how to put the files into the correct folder is to connect the hard drive as a slave drive on another computer and move the files to the correct place.

Since you probably do not know how to do that then it's not an option for you.

Besides, I don't think it will work anyway.

Go install directx and then the chipset driver, followed by the video driver and the sound driver. The network driver is next after that.

To find out if you need any other drivers, going into the device manager is where you start. If you need to install a driver, it will show you there.

Start, my computer, local C:

also works and reveals (the listed files I said) plus more files and folders

add:

Start, my computer, local C:

also works and reveals (the listed files I said) plus more files and folders

GMMan, I click on start, run, type in c: click browse
there are two rows of folders

the left row are are mostly file names with letters and numbers making no sense to me
the second row have file names I can recognize

On my desktop are the newly installed antivirus programs

Oh, and I'm getting notices that I must delete some unused programs because my hard drive is getting full (or words to that effect).

What does that folder look like? Does it resemble your pre-reinstall HD, or is it just a random jumble of files?

Thanks 'Insanitor'

I had the Belarc Advisor print out and a print out I took off the Gateway site when my laptop was new, so I'd have a record of exactly what was built into the machine.

I also had the original Operating System disk as supplied by Gateway when my system was built in dec 2003.

I've used this disk in the past for a repair and it worked just fine. This time my problem was much bigger and a reinstall was necessary.

All seemed well (to me) except I could not get online.

I had been using my pcimca wireless adapter of that laptop. I went to dlink.com and followed the instructions for installation. It's now working and I'm online.

Then I went to microsoft for all their updates and SP2 & 3, it's uploading now. Also need an undated IE, Firefox etc. and my anti virus software, some I have disks other are available online.

my mouse pad works as does my usp(s) and pcmcia slot

You're right I don't hear any sound , I'm guessing that's my next hurdle.

A week ago I completed a back up and this morning I tried a 'restore'. It worked fine but all the backed up folders and files are in one folder on my c: drive.

How do I get the folders into their original places? Or how do I use them from the c: drive?

any help and guidance would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks

You are now coming into new territory concerning the use of computers. Reinstalling the OS and drivers and such requires an intermediate level of computer knowledge.

While manufacturers have simplified the process somewhat, not every manufacturer has made the process simple enough for the average user.

We can help you complete the driver installation, but from now on, you will have to ask specific questions, so that we can be entirely sure what your next step is.

I have been doing this for almost 10 years now. From experience, I can tell you that the very first thing you should do is install directx, and then the chipset driver.

The graphics driver usually comes next, followed by the soundcard driver. After this, the computer will usually become usable, unless you need to install a network adapter driver.

By the way, in the future, do not always rely on Belarc to tell you what model number you have. That program will display only what the BIOS says and that number is not always what the manufacturer says the real model number is, since many manufacturers outsource whoever builds their motherboards.

I found and downloaded set up files from dlink.com for a wireless adapter I have and managed to get that laptop online.

Also managed to recover the files from back up disk and they are now on my laptop, but all in one big folder..

Anyone know how I can get them so I can see/use them the way they were before??

thanks for your help.

Hi WR-UK,

I don't have any access to internet on the laptop.

BUT I do have a back up on the C: drive.

I'm going to try and recover from the back up disk.

I'll let you know, soon.

Thanks Bigun, the order of install was a definite concern of mine.

I have a print out of this laptop from "Belarc Advisor" (dated August 2006 and June 2008) and I know my model number is M350WVN Rev 1 with 1 GB of ram (upgraded 2009) and Bus Clock: 533 megahertz

I also have a print out from on my laptop dated (Sept 2004) M350WNV, NETWORK CARDS Broadcom 802.11g LAN [part #6002494]

My hard drive does not have a partition, nor was it partitioned when purchased, I checked for that one before the system just didn't want to reboot even in 'safe mode'

On the Gateway site I found drivers for
<9523652.exe
Gateway CardBus Controller driver, version 5.00.2195.3005
Download Now How to Download How to Install

Note: This file contains the Windows XP or Windows 2000 CardBus Controller driver for the Gateway notebook computers listed below.>

my laptop was listed but I don't know my
part number. But every part number listed is for a M350WVN

I also found and downloaded (didn't do anything with any of these downloads yet)
My laptop has listed -- Broadcom 802.11.g Network Adapter
<9526044.exe
Broadcom Wireless Network Card Driver Version 3.30.15
Download Now How to Download How to Install

Note: This file contains the Windows XP or Windows 2000 Broadcom 802.11g network adapter driver for the Gateway computer models listed below.

good for: Gateway M305CRV [Part #1007765]
Gateway M350WVN [Part #1007766]
Gateway M350WVN [Part #1007770] >

the part numbers don't match the information I have on my laptop. That's my concern and why I'm asking questions here.

[url=http://support.gateway.com/s/Mobile/Gateway/400WVN/3501666sp58.shtml]null
looks like they now call my system "400WVN" maybe that's why the part number have been updated ...

I also opened the instruction on how to install these drivers but they don't say any order to install them in. They do mention the folder to find on C: and install from there.

Is this information any help?

If you don't have the installation discs for your hardware (for example I have discs for my motherboard, graphics and sound cards network cards and other hardware that I've bought. These contain all the drivers i need to get everything up and running again. however if you bought a factory built computer these discs may not have been given to you. alls not lost find out what the manufacturers of each bit of your computer is from (some of these can be found by using commands like dxdiag (which tells you the manufacturer and model of your sound and video cards (and maybe even your motherboard). you cqan download the freeware version of Anvira which will give you all the info you require. Once you know the manufacturer of each piece of hardware find their web sites (easy using Google) You should find links on their home page to get the frivers you require.

If it's software drivers you can do the same. I hope this helps your predicament.

There are softwares that gather all your essential drivers and which can then be used to reinstall them after a windows reinstall. It saves masses of time. Even better a imaging software like Acronis true image will ensure you have an up to date back up of your complete system. however you will require an external drive (or seperate partition) where you can store the image (Which needs to be approximately the same size as the disc you are backing up). Well worth it if you have a lot of programs and work on your computer.

I do not intend to sound condescending but I do think you need to listen.

What you are wanting to do and needing to do is just not that hard. I would suggest that you slow way down to avoid further screwing up a situation that can be salvaged. You surely know someone that is moderately knowledgeable of your operating system. With their help there are all kinds of possibilities to get you going again. You may even have a hidden partition on your present hard disk that has everything that you need stored in it. Manufactures do this constantly.

If you have to manually download drivers, your first order of business will be to catalog your hardware and necessary installation software such as the setup files for your chipset, your video display unit, and all of the various controlling devices that make things such as USB ports and CD drives operate. Drivers for these components can be on a resource disc and are mostly surely on the manufacture's webpage. Do not worry if you cannot list every single item. If you get several items correct then probably be other items in the group go along with your computer. It is a good start.

Something else that is very important will also be on the manufacturer's webpage. That is the order in which to install your drivers. There is a set order for the chipsets, various ports, controlling bridges etc. if you do not follow the correct order, your computer may not work.

Take it easy and slow. Find someone that is knowledgeable to help you. Before you go to the Gateway website I suggest that you collect the technical information that describes the make, model, and version of your computer exactly. That along with catalog of any special hardware and software provided through Gateway will help you download the correct drivers from the Gateway website and install them in the proper order.

Thanks, GMMAN, I found the Gateway number but it didn't do me any good, but their recording suggested I use their .com site for drivers etc. I did, I'll try them shortly

Thanks, aRenegade, I only received one disk with my laptop and I used it, it was good but not good enough, no drivers for wireless adapters included. I just downloaded some, hope they work.

I'll let you both know.

I was disappointed in Microsoft because my ISP 'tech' told me he had a similar problem two weeks ago and MSC sent him a disk with the missing drivers etc.
They told me to call the manufacturer.

My laptop was one of the many that went with some company they sold their professional division 'stuff' too , so they would be the ones I'd have to call for tech support, I tried that when I was still under extended warranty, it was a less than satisfactory experience. So I'll pass on calling them again.

Wish me luck, or teach me how to make a network with my two laptops and a desktop that cannot detect the monitor that's plugged into the back of it, and a working printer. I've tried before, thought I followed all the steps, just didn't work, they found each other just didn't access each other.

I'll be happy just to get the Gateway operational again.

Hello Calmier - Most computer manufacturers include disc's that contain all the programs that were pre-installed. Programs such as the Windows OS, drivers, diagnostics, and an assortment of other applications. Having been a Gateway Desktop owner myself at one time I know this to be true (at present my weapon of choice is a Dell Latitude E6500 Notebook (I discovered the good stuff is in the commercial offerings). I maxed it out with factory options such as a backlit keyboard, Intel Core 2 Duo T9600 2.88Ghz, 256MB Nvidia Quadro NVS, 7200rpm Hard Drive, 9-cell battery, Black Matt Finish WUXGA LCD w/1900x1200 resolution, biometric security, etc). A lot of stuff independent from the Microsoft OS/drivers. So perhaps the backup CD's that came with your PC are still somewhere in your house, kept in case of emergencies like these that you've forgotten about.

If you don't have those CD's you can call Gateway and I'm sure they'll be happy to send you the drivers on a CD, and it's likely they'll do it for free. They've lost enough business already to their competitors so keeping a customer happy is a top priority. That's something you can use to your advantage if you call tech support.

I recall a time when I needed internet access for a situation similar to yours in order to complete a repair. But I couldn't get on the net because the ISP I was using needed some "critical" files. It was a paradox. Eventually I remembered some CD's came with my PC when I bought it (or should I say morgaged...lol). On one of the CD's was a trial offer for AOL. So using that CD I was able to access the net and download the drivers and files I needed. Afterwards I opted out on that AOL trial, Revo'ed the program, and I was back in saddle again...lol Good Luck!

On a computer with Internet access, go to your computer's support page and download all drivers that are applicable. Then, copy it to a USB stick or similar and install from that.