uninstall xp 1

[cobrien11]

Hi,

I've just inherited a hp computer from work that has been reformated and had xp loaded on. The problem is it's a copy of xp that has already been registered. I want to run the hp recovery disk that origionaly came with the computer.

- The recovery disk won't run. (I assume because xp is loaded and the recovery disk has Millennium.
- It won't let me register xp.
- It won't let me uninstall xp before it has been registered. (osuninstall.exe)

Any suggestions?

 

[linney]

You will only remove XP by using the Format command to wipe the hard drive clean. You will then be able to install via a setup CD any operating system you wish.

What is the problem with XP on that machine? When you mention Registration do you mean Activation?

ME would require a FAT32 partition whereas XP may be on a NTFS partition. In that case you would also require the FDisk tool to get ME back.

Your Bios will have to be able to boot in this order, floppy, CD then hard drive.

255867 - How to Use the Fdisk Tool and the Format Tool to Partition or Repartition a Hard Disk

http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;255867&FR=1&PA=1&SD=HSCH

Do try and keep XP if you can.

 

[cobrien11]

Linney,

Ooops, I did mean activation.

If I wipe the hard drive clean the hp restore disk wouldn't work, would it?

 

[linney]

If the Disk boots, it will probably format the drive, it should then install and return you to a pre factory condition of ME, I would have thought.

Like I said before you might have to manually return the partition to FAT32 with FDisk.

 

[cobrien11]

thanks for your time linney, i'll give it a go tonignt.