Not being able to boot in normal mode in Windows XP usually means that the computer has a hardware problem with the RAM.
Upgrading the memory of your computer is easy, but can reveal various problems. If your computer only boots in Safe Mode after an upgrade, you will need to consider hardware,compatibility and human error as the source of the problem.
Instructions
Bad Installation
1. Turn the computer off. Unplug the computer power cord and open the case using the Phillips screwdriver.
2. Remove the upgraded memory and put it back in place making sure you hear the click of the latches on each side of the memory module.
3. Reconnect the power cable and boot the computer to make sure you can boot in Windows XP normally.
Compatibility
4. Boot in Safe Mode with Networking and launch your browser. You can also use another computer.
5. Go to the motherboard's manufacturer's website and locate the technical information for your motherboard.
6. Check the memory speed, and if you need to, install the memory on the motherboard.
7. Turn off and unplug your computer. Open the case with the Phillips screwdriver and change the memory module's location or type on your computer according to the motherboard's manufacturer's recommendation.
Damaged Memory Slot
8. Turn off and unplug your computer. Open the case and remove the memory module.
9. Connect one memory module on the first memory slot. Connect the power cord back to the computer and try to boot Windows XP normally. If the computer boots up normally, turn the computer off, unplug the power cable and move the memory module to the next slot.
10. Repeat Step 2 until you find the damaged memory slot.
Damaged Memory Module
11. Download bootable memory-testing software on your computer (see Resources). Make sure to download the ISO file of the latest version.
12. Burn the ISO on a blank CD or DVD using the "Burn Image" feature of your CD/DVD-burning software.
13. Turn off and unplug your computer. Open the case and remove all the memory modules. Reconnect the first memory module in the motherboard and replug the power cord to the computer.
14. Turn the computer on and insert the CD/DVD you just created. Let the test run and look out for any red message indicative of a damaged memory module.
15. Turn the computer off, unplug the power cord and replace the memory module with the next one once the test is finished. Turn the computer on to repeat the test. Make sure to test all the memory modules individually. Replace all the damaged modules.
Tags: your computer, memory module, memory module, power cord, computer Open, computer Open case, Open case