Problem removing XP on dual boot

Question

I originally had XP on my e1505 C: drive. I created a D: drive using a partition program (GPart) and successfully installed Vista on the new D: drive.

I now want to get rid of XP. I saw an earlier message regarding this topic which suggested to boot to Vista on the dual boot (it is now read as C: under dual boot), then do a 'quick format' on D:, the xp drive, which was originally the c: drive.

When I ask to format the D: (XP drive) I choose NTFS file system with a allocation unit size of 4096 and I get a message "Windows was unable to complete the format". When I tried to do a quick format through the Administrative tools, then Computer Management, then the Disk Mangement Snap-in, I get a message "Windows can not format the system partition on this disk.

My question is how do I format the old C: XP drive so I can reclaim that hard drive space for Vista? I really need the real estate on the hard drive being used by XP.

Thanks. Hope I didn't make this too confusing.

jcoane · Answer

So is there no way to get back that space? I just want to boot to Vista and don't want XP on the machine anymore

mombodog · Answer

Sorry, wrong term, they are the same. Yes delete volume.   XP =  Delete Partition Vista = Delete Volume

mombodog · Answer

Nice feature, you cannot delete the system drive!  :smileysurprised:

jcoane · Answer

The only delete option is to delete the volume, not the partition. Are they the same? Thx.

mombodog · Answer

Choose 'delete partiton' first. Delete the partiton then create a new one and format.

jcoane · Answer

Tried to delete volume -- now I get a message 'Windows can not delete the active system partion on this disk.' Hmmm. Other thoughts, suggestions?

mombodog · Answer

Hmmm, I think when you boot into Vista, It becomes the C drive.   which one are you trying to delete C  or D?

jcoane · Answer

You are correct...when I boot, Vista becomes the C: drive. Originally the C: drive (which is what I am trying to delete even though it is now seen as the D: drive) had XP on it.

Phew...a bit confusing.

C3PO5 · Answer

Hi You can not delete or format the drive that has the Vista boot manager witch in your case the Vista boot manager is on the XP C:\ drive and Vista is on D:\ drive but you can do this. read the link to fix it .   http://computerhaven.info/forum/tm.aspx?m=56515&mpage=1&key=�   Good Luck !

Windows General

Problem removing XP on dual boot

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