[jooools]

Hi

Just been given a pretty new (2-3 year old) PC that I'd like to re-install xp on. The previous owner had bad problems - files all over the place, unfragmented and it eventually totally crashed. When I got it it wouldn't boot up at all, even in safe mode.

To get it working again I thought I'd just re-install xp over whats there already but when I try to install xp it keeps crashing and I keep getting the blue screen saying "beginning dump of physical memory" etc.
I'm wondering if I need to complete wipe the existing hard drive before installing xp? I'd be grateful for any advice




Thanks

Jooools

 

[speedster123]

http://dban.sourceforge.net/
Use only the bare minimum of hardware to install xp. Use but one memory stick at first.

 

[Tumbleweed36]

HI,

The program that speedster123 has given you will do a nice job of wiping everything off. I do think with the listed history of problems, that you might be well advised to just go ahead and wipe the thing off. Then, be sure your boot order is set correctly and reinstall Windows.

If we can be of any help, let us know.

 

[jooools]

Hi!

thanks for the advice. I ran the prog. - it took a few hours to wipe the disk. I've since loaded the xp disk but the installation is going 'round in circles and it still says there's another operating system on there. Would be grateful for further advice

thanks

 

[Tumbleweed36]

Hi,

Give us the specs of your computer so we know what board, what brand of computer, what make and kind of hard drive......if you look under my signature, that should help to guide you with what is needed.

 

[minibutch]

"beginning dump of physical memory"

I need to re-insatll windows and am experiencing the same problem. I got to install the OS and it copies the files ok and then gets the the loading satge wher eit says "Approx 39 minutes to complete installation" and then it will freeze or restart.

I am told I have to configure my RAM timings in the BIOS but when I go into it, all the options are set to "auto" and I have no idea as to what to set them to.

http://dban.sourceforge.net/
Use only the bare minimum of hardware to install xp. Use but one memory stick at first.

I have 2GB OCZ Platinum so should I only use 1 stick?

 

[jooools]

Ran the disk again and its finally loaded ! XP installation completed...

thanks Guys

 

[Tumbleweed36]

Hi,

Thanks for reporting back and glad you got it going.