Formatting benefits

[Mobhack]

It would be nice to know what is actually doing in the MP3 handling, so any firther tests would be welcome

Remember to save off a restore point too!.

My money is on some sort of "multimedia accessory" that either or both of indtalls a dud CODEC or takes over MPEG handling because it "knows best", MP3 being the audio format for MPEG. Anything that messes with the default Microsoft installation of DirectShow as well. (That includes some poorly written plug-ins for Windows Media player).

So - it can be coming from a movie third-party widget as much as a music one. Possibly even a "kewl" screen saver?.

Cheers
Andy

[Rampager83]

If you are going to format often (I have 3 kids still at home and usually re-format & reload about every 3-4 months) then I suggest you get a copy of a program like NORTON GHOST.

THEN:

1. Save all the files you want to keep.

2. Wipe the drive/partition.

3. Load Windows and all hardware drivers.

4. Load your anti-virus/anti-spyware packages.

5. THEN conntect to the "Net and upgrade as follows:

WINDOWS
ANTI-VIRUS
ANTI-SPYWARE
any other system utilities/firewalls/etc.

6. Install your basic software loadout:

Office Suite
Browsers/plug-ins
Essential applications
Those games you have played for years

7. Install GHOST (or it's twin) and make an IMAGE of your
drive.

8. Then install all the multimedia and non-essential stuff.

When you have to "re-install" use GHOST/et al to re-install
from the image and you will save lots of time and frustration.

To be REAL safe, install a 2nd/3rd hard drive and put the image and any data backups on the other drive.

Just my $0/02.
BK