Why wont Windows XP format and install?

Question

Ive done this plenty of times on my Dell dim 8200, just a plain format and reinstall. I format using format c: then after that i create a primary partion and reboot to the cd rom for setup. But this time ive tried everything i formated, created partition, and go to use the Windows Xp cd f :setup and it says,

"cannont be run in ms dos mode"

so i use the command i386\winnt.exe and get into the setup screen and it tells me now

"Windows XP requires a hard drive volume with at least 477 megabytes of free disk space. Setup will use this space for storing temporary files during installation. The drive must be on a permanently attached local hard disk supported by Windows XP, and must not be a compressed drive.

Setup was unable to locate a drive with the required amount of free space.

Setup cannot continue. Press ENTER to exit."

i know my hard drive is installed correctly because it shows in the bios, plus i was just on it 45 minutes ago.

Can some experienced users please help me?

Message Edited by cdub1 on 07-19-2005 08:56 PM

cdub1 · Answer

ahh thanks for the help, it was actually my cd-rom drive, disconnected cable Message Edited by cdub1 on 07-19-2005 11:27 PM

Denny Denham · Answer

cdub1, The procedure you are attempting to use is completely different from the recommended procedure, which is detailed here and in the included links.

Windows General

Why wont Windows XP format and install?

Was this post helpful?