1.  This is a good site for guidence on installing XP.  You do not have to install ME first . . during the instal of XP, you will be asked for "proof" of eligibilty for upgrade (assuming  you have the upgrade version of XP) . . just insert the Dell recovery disc and it shoul find the ME files . . then continue with the install.

2.  During the install you will be given the option of formating in FAT32 or NTFS.

3. Upgradeing the BIOS is usually a good idea . . Dell makes it simple and painless . . I like to have the pc on a UPS just incase power were to fail.

4. N/A . . see above

5.  SP does not have as many options as 98 or ME did . . I usually use the default unless I want backup installed

Good luck and have fun . .

 

No need to put a “fresh” version of ME on before the xp install; it’s going to get formatted by xp anyways.

You will have to upgrade the BIOS, preferably before the install process. Once the BIOS is installed, (-check to confirm-) you’re ready to install xp. That said, and not to confuse you, I believe with the Install site given (ie Supersite.com) that it may be better to format c: before attempting the install. I used the Supersite to install xp after 3 years with ME. Choose the NTFS format when prompted. It’s a good idea to print out the 8-10 Supersite pages and ask any questions before you start. Disconnect from internet before the install and make sure you have a firewall enabled before you re-connect (Blaster worm).

First thing you want to do is run the Upgrade Advisor from the XP cd; it’ll tell you what stays, what goes, and what has to be upgraded. You’ll want to download all the XP drivers for your system from Dell , ie monitor, video(graphics) card, printer, scanner, etc. It’s likely that if Dell doesn’t have them XP will supply them automatically during the install. An example of this was my monitor (P991); Dell didn’t have it on their site, Xp did install it. Go to manufacturer for other relevant drivers.

Re peripherals: Install (eg) printer software, then connect printer; and so on.

There are some files you’ll want to save to a floppy/cd which may some day save your bacon. You may also want to install the ‘Recovery Console’; that’s the major XP recovery sw. You can ask about this stuff after you’re up and running.

Contrary to popular belief if you have Windows ME installed the Upgrade shouldn't ask for Qualifying media as the scan of HD will find Windows ME.
It only asks for Qualifying media if HD scan doesn't find any Qualifying media installed.
There aren't any options to install other programs during XP install.
It is sometimes necessary 1st  Update the BIOS so XP will install.
Use Format "Downloads" link to get latest DELL BIOS for your Computer OS.
The Programs for Recovery Console & Backup may be installed after XP install.

I have shown the supersite link last as it assumes Clean Install status so doesn't include step to delete existing partition at step 5 & so achieve Clean Install status.

Use  this link & select XP Home or PRO then method , ie: Used Hard Drive , Multi_Page has text & large pictures of Clean Install.
http://www.windowsreinstall.com/

Use this link for Clean Install of XP , if you click on Pictures they Expand for easy view
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html (Delete existing partition at step 10b for Clean Install)

or use this link ( *** Delete existing partition at step 5 for Clean Install ***)
http://www.winsupersite.com/showcase/windowsxp_sg_clean.asp

Clean Install deletes existing partition (like FDISK)  &  Formats HD during Install of Windows XP  from XP CD.
Set BIOS to use CD-ROM as 1st boot device usually by pressing "F2" key during boot (startup),
for some Computers press "Del" key
Re-start Computer & when message "Press any key to boot from CD" shows do it & let subsequent messages "Press any key...." time out to Windows setup.

Message Edited by gryjhnhpe on 02-27-2004 08:32 AM

Thanks simpsr,

I just printed the Supersite article to refer to before and during my install. Now I just have to plunk down the cash for the shiny new CD!

Thanks imb59,

Looks like we have almost identical systems, so it's extra nice to hear things went well for you so far! I'll take your advice and not dump everything back at once. 

Thanks gryjhnhpe,

I will definitely make use of your links when I start the process.

I just did a clean install of XP Home this past weekend, and to my surprise, I wasn't even asked for the qualifying ME CD.  However, I didn't set my computer to the NTFS platform nor did I upgrade the BIOS.  I've heard from sources that changing to NTFS or upgrading BIOS can be done after installation.  At least I haven't had any problems so far. (knock on wood)

I'm slowly reinstalling software one at time to give my XP program to "settle" and to allow the system to be stabilized.  

No computers are the same, but its a safe bet that it's best to have a clean install.... a nice way to start 'fresh'

Good luck!

~lmb59
Dell Dimension 4100
933MHz/P-3
128MB SDRAM @133MHz
8x/4x/32x CDRW
Conexant HCF V.90/56k RTAD Speakerphone PCI Modem
40GB Ultra ATA HD
Logitech Internet Keyboard
12x Max Variable DVD ROM
WinXP, SP1 (Home)
NAV 2002

 

 

 

Thanks maxd,

Not dumping ME back on does sound a little silly, now that I read what I said. I downloaded the Update Advisor but haven't run it yet. I guess the best thing is to download new XP-compatible drivers and burn my own "Resource CD" before I start, or let XP find them on the upgrade CD or the internet?

One thing I forgot...I take it Norton Antivirus 2000 will not be compatible with XP? Is there an upgrade for this, or am I stuck buying a whole new version? The woman at Dell was clueless.

Thanks!

Noonin,

check out this website:

http://www.surferbeware.com/norton-antivirus-download.htm

I bought NAV 2002 a year ago, for $2.00 (yep, TWO dollars) and I downloaded a FULL protection package.

They now increased the price for NAV 2003, it will cost about $9.95. 

I've been told that anything made after the year 2000, it's still good for XP.  But for me, I'd rather have the most current program for the best protection.

good luck!

~lmb59