Windows Forum

Ask something
Discussion Locked

Data Invalid on Install

0 helpful
5 replies

by barry.gibson

Closed to new repliesThis discussion is closed. It stays readable, but it takes no new replies.

I have a Win2k pro system. When I do a Windows update (from Windows Update site) on drivers, it always fails and just tells me to try again.

When I tried to install a PCI modem or a PCI usb card the system finds the item. When it starts the "Upgrade Device Driver" applet, it asks where the driver is and always gives a "An Error Occurred During the installation of the Device. The Data is invalid"

I tried using different items in different slots and ran Norton Systemworks to fix problems.

Still the same thing, updated to service pack 3 and still have the same problem.

Any ideas?

5 replies

by jwbirdsong

It has been my experience in the past to NEVER use Windows Update for drivers. I have never seen any food came from it. (I would clarify This is ONLY drivers. Can you download drivers from the manufactures site

by barry.gibson

I agree that the Windows site is a poor place to get the drivers. I was using that as an example of my system not letting me install ANY new device drivers.

I'm trying to install the Modem and USB card (at seperate times) and get the "An Error Occurred During the installation of the Device. The Data is invalid" with any driver installed from the maker's disk or site. Thanks

by barry.gibson

No I don't. I think it is something in the registry, but have no idea where. I had some crosslinked clusters and sectors going bad on the drive (repaired and copied to new drive).

by pbtoms

I just dealt with this issue with XP, don't know if it's the same for 2k, but worth a shot, I guess. You have to mess with the registry. Run Regedt32. Go to \HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Enum\PCI

Under that there are a bunch of folders, "VEN_something" Under each of those will be one or more folders. In the subfolders, look at the DeviceDesc line. Look in all of them until you find one that matches the hardware you're trying to install. Then right click on the folder, go to Permissions, and check "Allow" next to Full Control. Close out, and reboot. When it finds the hardware, it should install correctly.

Dunno why this works, or why it is set to read only in the first place if that causes problems, but it worked for me!

Disclaimer - As I said, I did this in XP, can't promise it's the same in 2K. Also, if you don't back up your registry before screwing with it, don't come cryin' to me. :-)

This discussion is closed to new replies.