loading Windows 2003 on Dimension XPS

Question

Hello All-   I just got my Dimension that was on sale. I want to load Windows 2003 Server on it but it's saying it cannot find any hard drives. XP works fine though. What do I need to do to get 2003 to recognize the drive?   Thanks!!   :-)

dotcomeddie · Answer

You need to load the SATA drivers (Press F6 during Windows Setup) since Windows does not natively support SATA. Go to Dell.com and download the drivers for your appropriate model and run the executable to make a floppy.

DCE

shesagordie · Answer

locoytravieso.   You cannot use a CD, just a floppy, you could use an external FD or temporarily install an internal one. The following may be a help.     http://www.djdenham.com/8400%20Special.htm     Bev.

locoytravieso · Answer

What if  don't want to use a floppy? Is there any way to put the files on the Windows setup CD?

locoytravieso · Answer

Hi Everyone-   Okay, so I got the floppy drive and was able to get through the WIndows 2003 installation. Now when it boots, I briefly see the Windows 2003 Server splash screen and it blue screens and reboots itself. I cannot get into safe mode, debugging mode, etc. to determine what the problem is. Do I need to put this machine in a box and send it back to Dell? It doesn't seem to do well with Windows 2003 and the only reason I purchased it was to have it as a server.   Thanks!   --locoytravieso--

shesagordie · Answer

locoytravieso.   If you're within 21 days of the packing slip/ invoice date you could send it back.  As you wanted a server, would nott a Poweredge system been more suitable?   Bev.

Storage, Drives & Media

loading Windows 2003 on Dimension XPS

Was this post helpful?