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force windows 98 to redetect hardware

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5 replies

by the doctor.

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deleting which registry key will cause windows to detect the installed hardware? Ihave done this in the past but seem to have lost my way.

5 replies

by thechas

You can delete the enum key under hkey_local_machine

I would go in, and delete only those branches that have wrong hardware shown.

I further recommend jotting down some of the data from the keys, then searching the registry to "clean" the other references to the hardware.

It wouldn't hurt to check add/remove software for any control or other programs related to the hardware that you want to eliminate.

As always, back up the registry prior to editing.

Chas

by lizzy

Remove the device if it appears in the System Applet of the Control Panel (go to Start, Settings, Control Panel, System). Reboot the PC and windows should detect it and you can let it pick the drivers or specify drivers in a certain location by pressing the Have Disk button.

Also, if the device is not listed, go to the Control Panel again and open the Add New Hardware applet and choose the detect hardware. This may hang your PC if the hardware is having a problem. If the device is not Plugand Play (such as in an ISA slot internal card) then detecting won't get it detected--you'll have to manually install the device with the manufacturer's driver installation software. If you need more assistance, post a comment with more specific information (device type, manufacturer, etc.).
Hope this helps.

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