I have a lap top with only cdrom input. I want to format the hard drive. How do I boot from the cdrom with xp?
Thanks
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I have a lap top with only cdrom input. I want to format the hard drive. How do I boot from the cdrom with xp?
Thanks
Go into your BIOS (look for the setup option when you first power up after the POST) and set your CDRom to be the first boot device. save your settings and reboot.
When it asks you if you want to boot from CDRom, press enter, or whatever command it tells you.
You can then setup a new install, delete or create partitions.
Follow the instructions.
Though, XP doesn't have an fdisk option AFAIK.
Maybe from the recovery console... but you're better off just using the utilties they include.
phishphreek80
If I boot from the cdrom don't I need a disk with a boot?
As long as your system will support it.. you should not need floppy disks... if thats what you're asking.
Just make sure the CD is bootable. XP setup CDs are bootable.
If your laptop is too old... it might not support booting to CD.
You have to check your settings in the BIOS.
Windows Xp uses Disk part commands
phishphreek80
That must be my problem, I can't boot from the cdrom. I have a setup disk, but it is not recognized as a boot disk. I'll see if I can borrow a floppy drive.
Thanks
Before you do that check the cd for dust and scratches 9 times out of 10 cleaning the CD makes the cd drive read it and makes it boot.
OK
Just a thought it may be a dumb thought but... you may wanna compare your system to the system requiremtents for XP. It seems to me that if your computer is old and won't boot from disk it might not meet the requirements anyway.
http://support.microsoft.com/default...b;en-us;314865