Problems Reinstalling Windows Vista

Question

Computer Dell XPS 410/Windows Vista Business

Had problems with audio. Could not start windows audio endpoint builder and of course windows audio service. It was suggested to reinstall the OS.

When I try to reinstall it (from the Disk). it comes with a message:

This version of Windows could not be installed.

Your previous version of Windows has been restored, and you can

Continue to use it. Before trying to install this version of Windows

Again, check online to see if it is compatible with your computer. Go to

The Microsoft Website (www.microsoft.com) and search for “upgrade

Advisor”.

I am running Windows Vista Business edition. What is going on? I do not want to upgrade the OS.

Please help.

Thanks

fireberd · Answer

Doublecheck the Dell supplied DVD and make sure it's the same version that you have.  Could be Dell supplied a different version on the backup DVD.

chiyyarath · Answer

Nov 06: I bought the Dell XPS 410; it came with XP Professional.

Jul 07: Replaced OP with Vista Business from Dell. (I don't know what version is this?)

I have Service Pack 1 running on the machine now.

How do I reinstall the operating system?

Thanks

Chiyyarath

fireberd · Answer

Sounds like SP1 is the culprit and the DVD is detecting the SP1.  However, if you are going to 'reinstall' you need to do a complete reinstall, reformat the 'C' drive and install everything, not just install Vista over top of the existing version.

chiyyarath · Answer

I want to reformat C:

Vista files are on C:

I go to:

Start - Control Panel _ Administrative Tools - Computer Management - Storage - Disk Management.

Right click on C:

'FORMAT" is in grey color. Cannot do anything!

Any suggestions?

Thanks

Davet50 · Answer

you cannot format the os partion from within windows. IF you want to format the os partition you must do this from outside of the operating.

Place your windows disk in the drive make sure the system is set to boot from the CD/DVD drive. at the install promt select the option to format the "C" partition and go forth with the install.

Windows General

Problems Reinstalling Windows Vista

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