formatting pc help

you dont need to format your machine as such

just run the winxp bootable cd it will give you the option to format the machine before you install the OS (operating system)

but please make sure you backup all important docs b4 beggining

and i would recommend the new build of XP with service pack 1 already installed and latest updates as downloading them again is not a problem but saves you time

so i just put the winxp pro cd in then pick the format option ? then once it has formated i install the OS (operating system) ? I have looked at the winxp pro cd & i give;s me 4 option

1 install windows xp
2 install window;s optional components
3 perform additional tasks
4 check system compatibility

so as you can see i;m a bit lost here please advice many thanks

it first asks you to choose a install (either repair or new install)

choose a new install then it will ask you somewhere down the line weather you want to format or not

also are you getting them 4 options from the bootup ???

but you want to install windows XP but before it will install it somewhere down the line it asks weather you want to format it or not

if i was you i would get your nephew in one last time to show you what he does, then you will be able to do it

is it a copy cd if so its not bootable does the machine have a floppy drive if so use a boot floppy

mine is bootable

copy cds are bootable.
he is geting the four options because he has inserted the cd whilst in windows

I insert the cd then it give;s me the 4 option;s that;s all. I dont know what option to start off with? ps it is a copy cd so what you are saying i load the cd as soon as i start the pc before windows starts up ? ps the cd is bootable my nephew booted it up from the cd twice on this pc

Zapper m8 Insert the CD, Then re-boot the machine with the CD still in the drive, then it should take you through to the options what mickie is talking about.

Bronto

got it now thanks for all your help i no i;m a bit thick when it comes to reloading windows

well done m8

well done m8y ... dont worry the good thing is you got there in the end

at one point i was wondering what these 4 options was lol ... i should have said boot up the machine with the disk in then go from there

Regards
Mickie

thanks to all above for all your help

your welcome