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I have come across mixed answers for this so I would like to set the record straight. This poor PC is damaged beyond repair and the only attempt at recovery is by booting in safe mode with command prompt.

The computer is running windows XP.

Will it be able to load a USB device in order to transfer files while in safe mode?

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Sorry the answer is no: http://support.microsoft.com/kb/310496

What makes you say it is damaged beyond repair? I may be able to guide you. Do you you have the install media? What service pack is the install media, and what service pack is the damaged install?

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I mean it wont boot(not even in safe mode), and before formatting everything I was going to attempt to pull some files. (possibly a HD issue but was going to attempt to pull what i could. – harper89 Jun 15 '11 at 17:07
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Ok, you can do a number of things: You can pull the drive, and put it into a desktop computer, or even the housing for an external drive (do this for an external you don't care about...it is not hard, and not easy to damage, but just in case). In the alternative, you can repair your Windows. Follow my instructions here: superuser.com/questions/295412/… – KCotreau Jun 15 '11 at 17:15
That was my second option. I was trying to get some options before I headed out. Its a family members computer so I didnt want to have to pull their drive/bring my desktop with me. Thanks for the tips and the link. – harper89 Jun 15 '11 at 17:19
Good luck Harper. – KCotreau Jun 15 '11 at 18:07

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