Here's a "checklist" to run through prior to a SP3 install attempt; Steps to take before you install Windows XP Service Pack 3

This touches upon SP3 & Non-Intel processors; http://support.microsoft.com/kb/888372/

I also have come across a java script for the AMD problem, but I haven't verified it. (I don't have an AMD "experimental machine" to try it on.)

Thanks for that Dan, I will check out You receive a ?Stop 0x0000007E? error message after you upgrade to Windows XP Service Pack 2 or Service Pack 3 on a non-Intel-processor-based computer
tomz as off to bed now, thanks again

I have just bought a new cheap PC base unit from Aria Technology for £112 to play with while I study for the A+ so that I dont destroy my main home built PC and have put XP on it , I downloaded SP3 with no trouble at all and it it works like a dreaml. Shame about the wifes HP machine not being able to take it