Trying to install Fresh clean windows 10 64 bit on my HP Notebook - 14-dk0002dx

[JR2014]

The Drive was totally erased, I am trying to install a fresh copy of windows 10 64 bit on it, but it keeps failing and saying stop code error Driver PNP whatchdog.

I have tried various ways of getting this system back up, it lets me install a 32 bit version without any issues but there is no drivers available for this system using 32 bit.

it would be nice if i can get some assistance here as this has been a problem now for sometimes and getting no replys is annoying

[Alden4]

Hi @JR2014,

Welcome to HP Support Community.

Thank you for posting your query, I will be glad to help you.

It seems that you're encountering a "Driver PNP Watchdog" error during the installation of a 64-bit version of Windows 10 on your HP Notebook 14. This error typically occurs due to compatibility issues with drivers or a problem with the installation media. Here's a series of troubleshooting steps you can try to resolve the issue.

Check System Compatibility

• Ensure your notebook's hardware supports a 64-bit version of Windows. Most modern systems should, but you can verify by checking the processor specifications (e.g., Intel i3, i5, i7, or AMD Ryzen series are compatible with 64-bit Windows).
• You can use the CPU-Z tool to check your processor details, ensuring it's a 64-bit capable processor.

Prepare a Clean Installation Media

• Use the Windows 10 Media Creation Tool to create a fresh 64-bit installation USB. This will ensure that your installation files are not corrupted.
  • Go to Microsoft’s official download page and use the tool to create installation media.
  • Ensure that when you choose the edition, you select Windows 10 (64-bit).

BIOS Settings

• Reset BIOS to default settings: Sometimes, incorrect settings in the BIOS can cause installation issues. Enter the BIOS (usually by pressing Esc or F10 during boot) and choose the option to "Load defaults" or "Optimized defaults."
• Enable UEFI and Disable Legacy Mode: Make sure that UEFI boot is enabled in BIOS settings, and Secure Boot is disabled. This is crucial for the successful installation of Windows 10 64-bit.
• Check for BIOS updates: If your BIOS is outdated, it can cause compatibility issues. Visit HP’s support website, enter your model number, and check if there’s a newer BIOS version available.

Check RAM and Hardware

• Memory issues: Sometimes faulty RAM can cause the PNP Watchdog error. You could try removing and reseating the RAM or testing the system with just one RAM stick if you have multiple.
• Disconnect unnecessary peripherals: If you have external devices (USB drives, printers, etc.), disconnect them before starting the installation process. This can sometimes interfere with driver detection during setup.

Install the Correct Drivers

• Since you mentioned that 32-bit installation works but lacks drivers, once you successfully install 32-bit Windows, you can use Driver Booster or HP's Support Assistant to download the correct drivers, and then upgrade to 64-bit from there.
• Alternatively, you can manually download the 64-bit drivers for your system from the HP support site on a different machine and then transfer them to your notebook using a USB drive.

Installation via Safe Mode

• Try booting into Safe Mode after the Windows installation process has started. This can allow Windows to install with minimal drivers and may bypass the driver issues during setup.
  • After the error occurs, restart the system, and as it boots, repeatedly press F8 to enter Advanced Boot Options. Choose Safe Mode and attempt to finish the installation.

[Alden4]

Use a Different USB Port

• If you are installing from a USB drive, try using a different USB port. Use a USB 2.0 port instead of a USB 3.0 port if available, as some systems have compatibility issues with USB 3.0 during Windows installation.

Clear the CMOS

• If the BIOS reset did not help, you can try clearing the CMOS (complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor) by removing the battery for a few minutes and then reinserting it. This can help reset any hardware-related settings that might be causing conflicts.

I hope this helps.

Take care and have a good day.

Please click “Accepted Solution” if you feel my post solved your issue, it will help others find the solution. Click the “Kudos/Thumbs Up" on the bottom right to say “Thanks” for helping!

Alden4

HP Support 

[JR2014]

I have followed your recommendations and still continued Driver PNP Watchdog error, and to get into safe mode by pressing F8 does not work as I have tried to get to safe mode many times it just goes to reboot after several minutes just spinning

[JR2014]

The Bios I can not update as the unit must be able to boot 1st in 64 bit mode because in 32 bit mode it says it is not compatible.. and the Bios is on F 70 and the new update is F 73... 

Also I noticed this and wondering if it could be the reason as to why it is going into Driver PNP Watchdog Error on a Fresh Clean install...   With Secure Boot Disabled, 3 options below there it gives option (  CLEAR ALL SECURE BOOT KEYS  )  says ITEM SPECIFIC HELP  (  Clears all secure boot keys and certificates from secure boot databases. This option disables Secure Boot  ).. So is it telling me I need to also clear this to disable secure boot along with the Secure Boot Disabled switch 3 options up.....

Sounds like there is retaining the secure boot enabled  setting by  not clearing it. Am I wrong..