Setup was unable to format Partition

Here is the error message I recieved after being directed by Dell to delete my partitions and reinstall XP Home Edition:

"Setup was unable to format the partition. The disk may be damaged. Make sure the drive is switched on and properly connected to your computer. If the disk is a SCSI disk, make sure your SCSI devices are properly terminated. Consult your computer manual or SCSI adapter documentation for more information.

You must select a different partition for Windows XP.
To continue, press ENTER."

What do I do now!?