How Do I?

emipileki.

 First you make the CD/ROM/DVD the first boot device.   How to configure a Dimension series system to boot to the CD/DVD drive.

 http://support.dell.com/support/topics/global.aspx/support/kb/en/document?dn=1032262&c=us&l=en&s=dhs&cs=19

Then you can use the following instructions.

http://www.winsupersite.com/showcase/windowsxp_sg_clean.asp
 
To find the Dell reinstall guide, that's specific to your system, go here

http://support.dell.com/support/topics/global.aspx/support/software_reinstall/en/index?c=us&cs=19&l=en&s=dhs

Prior to installing, remember to disconnect all external peripherals from the computer, except the keyboard, monitor and mouse. 
While installing, delete all existing partitions (Paragraph 5) when you are prompted, then remake and format
them (Paragraphs 6 & 7), followed by installing XP.
 
You will have to reload the drivers and applications, etc, that should be on the CDs sent with the computer.
After the installation, you will need to download and install the MicroSoft Critical Updates, plus any
other updates you deem necessary, also remember to enable the firewall before going online.
Backup any files you wish to save prior, to formatting and reinstalling XP.
 
Printing a copy of these instructions, as a reference while installing XP could also be a help.

Bev.

Message Edited by shesagordie on 09-03-2004 03:37 PM

Thank you for responding.

shesagordie - the first link you provided does not list my system.  so, I dont know what to do with that.  Basically, I just put the resourceCD in the CD-Rom drive and follow the on screen instructions?  is there no easier way for this to be done?  it sounds extremely complicated.  On my HP all I have to do is hit F8 during the welcome screen and it can reformat my hard drive automatically without using any disk at all.  Does my Dell not come with the same type of features?  How well can someone mess up their computer if using the methods you both have suggested to reformat my hard drive?  I bought my Dell from a friend and they have a lot of unwanted stuff on the computer.  I wanted to start fresh so that is why I want to reformat the hard drive.  Is this not the best option? 

emipileki.

How to Configure a Dell Dimension 2400 to Boot From the CD Drive.

http://support.dell.com/support/topics/global.aspx/support/kb/en/document?DN=1083123

No, your Dell system does not come with the same feature as an HP system.  When your computer was made, there was not a restore feature installed on the HD, this is now installed on systems built after July 15th 2004.   Therefore, if you wish to reinstall the operating system, you must use the Dell XP reinstallation, drivers and applications CDs.

If you carefully follow the instructions, you should find it is a fairly easy procedure to carry and as I posted, print a copy of them as a reference.

As you wish to erase the HD, then formating, partitioning and reinstall is the best way.

Bev.  
 

I printed the guide from the last link you gave me and followed the instructions, using the ResourceCD.  Windows comes up normally, but everything is still exactly the same.  Even the desktop wallpaper is the same.  Am I using the wrong CD?  What did I do wrong?

Thanks,

Emi