Joe wrote:
> I am currently running on Vista reduced functionality.
>
> I have tried to boot off of XP disc and it checks for compatability and
> either states there's an error or stops. It never gives me the option to
> partition a drive.
>
That's probably because the WinXP installation CD lacks the necessary
device drivers to properly access the computers newer components.
> When I log onto the reduced fucntionality mode, and access the XP
> installation disc, click setup in the disc's folder: either the Install
> Windows XP link is not highlilghted, or when it is, i click Install Windows
> XP, it states:
>
> set up cannot continue because the version of windows on your computer is
> newer than the version on the CD. The help link which checks for a solution
> states that their is no solution and doesn't bring me to a microsoft url for
> help.
>
Well, of course you can't use a WinXP Upgrade CD to downgrade from a
newer OS.
There could be a couple possible adverse repercussions of which you
should be aware. First and foremost, if the specific computer model in
question was designed specifically for Vista, there may well be no
WinXP-specific device drivers available to make the computer's diverse
components work properly. Consult the computer's manufacturer about the
availability of device drivers. Secondly, removing an OEM-installed
operating system and replacing it with another will almost invariably
void any and all support agreements and, sometimes, even the warranty.
You would, at the very least, have to re-install Vista before getting
any support from the manufacturer. Again, consult the computer's
manufacturer for specifics. Thirdly, there will be the additional cost
involved in purchasing a WinXP license for this new computer.
After backing up any data you wish to transfer to the new OS
installation, simply boot from the WinXP installation CD. You'll be
offered the opportunity to delete, create, and format partitions as part
of the installation process. (You may need to re-arrange the order of
boot devices in the PC's BIOS to boot from the CD.)
HOW TO Install Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default...B;en-us;316941
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html
http://www.webtree.ca/windowsxp/clean_install.htm
Then, assuming you were successful in obtaining WinXP-specific
device drivers so that the computer can be made to work with WinXP, the
backed up data can be restored and applications (those that are
WinXP-compatible, that is) re-installed.
--
Bruce Chambers
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