Windows Setup not recognizing hard drive

Question

I am trying to reinstall Windows XP on a Dell 8400. For some reason setup will not recognize the hard drive. I can boot into Windows ok, but get a blue screen error when trying to reinstall. error:0x7b Any ideas?

mombodog · Answer

Enter the Bios and change the Drive Controller setting to  RAID Autodetect/ATA  save changes on exit, Xp will install now.   http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/dim8400/SM/syssetup.htm#wp1052327 how to enter your bios (system setup)   When you are in the bios your navigation keys will be listed at the bottom of the screen.

mombodog · Answer

' Re-installs require that all PCI-expansion Cards be removed...also remove your Memory Modules just leaving a single in SLOT-0(closest to the Processor)..'   Not necessary on the 8400. Not true. I have never removed an expansion card or Memory on a Dell to re-install an OS, unless the card or memory module was defective.   Please provide documentation / Link for this statement.   Lets try to help the OP, not confuse them with erroneous statements.

35dnld53 · Answer

Re-installs require that all PCI-expansion Cards be removed...also remove your Memory Modules just leaving a single in SLOT-0(closest to the Processor).. F-2 System Set-Up should be configured to CD-ROM..and the very end of your FLAT Cable is the BOOT-Drive.... I most often these days use a Paper Clip to POP-open the BOOT Device...place the OS CD inside...push closed...and just BOOT from a DEAD-start....Tapping F-12....//[end]

Windows General

Windows Setup not recognizing hard drive

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