I have windows XP
When I turn the computer on an error message occurs, giving the option of how to start up the computer.

http://img517.imageshack.us/my.php?i...sc00383wx1.jpg

But even if I select safe mode the same thing happens.
The windows loading screen is displayed for about 2 seconds and then this error message appears:

http://img132.imageshack.us/my.php?i...sc00384gz6.jpg

I would very much appreciate any help, as I need to access my work files on it. Thanks

What is the make and model of the computer?

Do you have the XP CD?

Did you try "Last known good configuration"?

That error indicates "No Boot Device".

Make and Model is Dell Dimension 4700

I have tried all the options including "Last Known Good Configuration"

And, yes I do have the XP Reinstallation CD (for the operating system)

Boot the CD and choose the first R for the Recovery Console.

If you get to the C:\> prompt type: FIXBOOT

I rebooted and followed instructions,
http://img373.imageshack.us/my.php?i...sc00386av0.jpg

however the same error message still appears. Did I do something wrong?

If you have no data that is vital you can restore the computer to the Dell factory settings as seen here:

http://support.dell.com/support/topi...g=&toggle=&dl=

This will remove all data from your computer.

If you need to attain data from your old system you can move this hard drive to another computer in order to do so prior to reinstalling XP.

what would I need to connect the hard drive to a separate computer and does it involve, psychically removing the hard drive, as I don't think I'm confident enough to do that.

Yes you need to remove the drive.

It can then either be connected internally or externally to a working computer.

The process is quite simple and we can help you through it if you wish.

Some basic guides here:

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&n...ing+hard+drive

And here:

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&n...ing+hard+drive

Does your question indicate that you do have data you do not want to lose?

The options would be to either remove the hard drive and connect it to another computer via internal ide/sata cable or you could get an external hard-drive caddy and put the hdd in their and connect it to another computer via usb.

However I have heard its possible to connect two computers together using a usb cable from one computer to another, and then the computer you were using would hopefully see the other as a removable drive in my computer. You can view details of a cable to do this here --> http://www.harddrives4less.com/bususbtousbf.html

Yes, there are files, I need to keep, so I'll try to follow the tutorial to remove the hard drive. Thank you for all your help so far, much appreciated.