Oliver21 wrote: ↑Tue Nov 30, 2021 9:51 am
I don't have a Windows install disk as it came preloaded on the machine
Get hold of a linux boot dc/dvd
If you don't have the option of downloading the requisite files to a cd/dvd go buy a Linux magazine, the cover disk will almost always have several Linux distros and many of them will boot. Once booted you will be able to access folders, and thereafter transfer files to a working disk, be it USB whatever
As for the fault itself, best scenario, an internal connection has been lost - make space on a table, get a desk lamp, with the pc unplugged, open the case, make sure all cards are properly seated, make sure all connections are pushed home, especially the HDD
worst case scenario, the HDD is duffo'd, but if you can get it connected to a working PC, there is the possibility that data can be salvaged and transferred to another disk. There are very useful disk caddies/docking stations that can be bought from the usual places about £20.00 and you can plug in sata drives, usb, micro sd etc
Even worse - the motherboard is dead
If and when you get set up and running again, along with other posters here, I too will advise about establishing a back-up and imaging regime, it is an absolute must. There are many options, and there is excellent freeware that does the job. I would strongly advise buying a NAS (Network Attached Storage) drive. Not only do they hold your data, backups etc, but many work as media servers.
As for backup, I have a spare HDD with a copy of my current Windows installed. Like many, I have a second HDD for data. If I had a bust c:drive, I can slide it out, replace it with the backup system drive, and I am up and running again by the time I have nipped downstairs and made a cuppa