been trying to install xp home on friends machine after formatting the disc the operating system loads so many of the files then says will restart in 15 seconds , when it restarts with the windows splash screen it locks up and goes no further , does anyone know why

Do you by any chance have an AGP graphics card in the system? If so, try removing it and reinstalling Windows.

no agp card fitted

Unplug everything other than the monitor, mouse, keyboard, and power from the system, see if this does anything. I assume this computer is relatively old, correct me if I'm wrong. Also remove all sound cards and other PCI devices from the motherboard that isn't necessary at this time. They can be reinstalled later. Also remove all sound cards and other PCI devices from the motherboard that isn't necessary at this time.

Try removing the installation disk and then reboot, wait to see if the pc prompts you to replace the disk after rebooting.

Worth a go.

none of above ideas worked any more suggestions anyone

turned out to be loose connection on board