Hi,

How can I do a clean install of XP Pro SP2 on a D630 configured for AHCI mode? During setup I press F6 and load the Intel AHCI (ICH8M-E/M) driver downloaded from the Dell web site. At this point the disk is detected and I can partition and format it. But, at the end of the format Windows setup displays the following message:

"Please Insert the disk labeled:

Intel Matrix Storage Manager Driver

Into drive A:

Press ENTER when ready"

Windows does not even try to access the floppy at this point and pressing Enter does nothing. I'm using a Dell D-series USB floppy drive. I guess that there must be an issue between Windows setup and the USB floppy. I have also seen this problem on a Precision workstation - in that case I was able get setup to work after installing an internal floppy.

I'm sure that I could get setup to work if I turn off AHCI but I would like to keep it on to increase performance and use NCQ.

FYI: I'm using an open license Windows XP Pro SP2 CD, not a Dell OEM CD. The laptop shipped with Vista and I need to dual boot.

Thanks,

Jonathan