Question about fresh install

Question

Hi all. I just ordered an XPS400 for my gf for Christmas. When it gets here, I'd like to do a reformat and fresh install of Windows so as to get rid of the extra stuff. :-) With my 8400, the procedure is: -Format the drive -Install Windows -Install the Dell desktop software thing -Install the Intel chipset software Is this still the procedure with the XPS400? I ordered the Winows XP backup cd. I read in another post that the cd has the SATA drivers on it, and a fresh install of Windows doesn't require having the SATA driver on a floppy. True? The 400 is configured as follows: WinXP Home Edition 2.8G Dual Core 2g RAM GeForce 6800 160g SATA hdd Is the procedure the same as for my 8400? Anythng else I need to know ahead of time? Thanks! Jack

davejohn · Answer

I did this with my XPS 600 and basically followed the same procedure.  The SATA drivers were on the CD and loaded automatically.   About the only thing to be aware of is that you will lose the ability to access to restore partition by hitting F11 on bootup.  There are a couple ways around it, but since I doubt I'll ever need to restore to the 'as-shipped' condition I'm not concerned.   Dave

Jacksmyname · Answer

Thanks davejohn. Jack

aggs23 · Answer

Well I don't know if I would recommend doing this. I have formatted my hard drive and now the machine won't boot with a Windows disk (to install a fresh copy.) I am too lazy to call Dell to see if they know a fix to this.

Georgia_Rebel · Answer

I have reformated my machine several times in the last year...no problems...just be sure you go into the bios and make your cd or dvd the first boot choice...my machine boot order is

1) floppy

2)CD Burner

3) Hard Drive

aggs23 · Answer

That's great for you. Unfortunately for me (and this guy) we have the XPS 400 and something is jacked up. I have reformated several times on several machines. I have even on this one using Linux. However, it won't work with Windows... No idea why it's picky with Windows.

CTskydiver · Answer

How did you format the system drive if you can't load from the Windows disk? Message Edited by CTskydiver on 12-08-2005 12:03 AM

aggs23 · Answer

Linux is your friend :) That is why it's so strange that Windows won't work. Message Edited by aggs23 on 12-08-2005 11:07 AM

CTskydiver · Answer

Since the XP install routine includes the option to do a full format, why didn't you do it that way?

Am I correct in stating that your issue is now this: You can't get the system to boot from the XP reinstall disk at all, but you CAN boot from other CD's?

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Question about fresh install

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