"Windows could not load the installer ..."

[awake]

Got a Win XP SP2 Home PC with a nVidia geforce4 MX 420 that gives the following error every time I log on:

"Windows could not load the installer for monitor. Contact your hardware vendor for assistance."

Other symtoms include being unable to access the display properties by right-clicking on the desktop and selecting 'properties' - nothing happens. Though I can access the display properties via control panel.

I've tried loading the latest nVidia drivers but get the exact same error msg 1/2 way through the driver install.

I've also run 'sfc /scannow' to check windows system files, and a registry checker.

A quick search on the net revealed this isn't a new problem - it's been around since Win2000. Couldn't find a decent explanation/solution though.

Anyone seen this before ?

As usual, any help would be greatly appreciated.

[madboy33]

have you tried to uninstall the drivers and use drive cleaner3 in safe mode?

p.s also clean the cab files as well

below is the link for drive cleaner

http://www.drivercleaner.net/

[awake]

Thanks for the advice madboy33. Downloaded the utility and ran it as per instructions. That removed the msg ... but it reappeared when I tried to load the new drivers.

Also, still had the problem whereby I was unable to open the display properties from right-clicking on the desktop.

This sounds more like windows system problems to me, so I've decided to backup & reload.

Thanks anyway though - driver cleaner looks like a handy tool !