Hmmm RVNVR! - added to list, both. Thanks. There isn't much to swap next, besides that and the CPU
Agree on naming convention - it's where it blong.. just wasn't *sure* that Doze was smart enough to find-later the I386 directory from an unexpected full address: even if one started winnt.exe from within that directory. After reboot, perhaps Doze comes back dumb? then punts.
My order next:
Get BIOS upgrade - once past the Dell sentry (ya gets no info w/o logging in with S/N, apparently, or I'd already have the file)
Use your recipe.
If no joy - pull one of the 128Mb chips, then other.
" " replace data cables. ("inspected" OK but not e- tested. No nicks.)
Then try A Scott's idea - reload the HD on my superior e-Machine, install on Dell. Boot to SAFE. Nuke hdwre list and redetect. Can't hoit.
Thanks for the sleuthing options,
Ashton