HP hell... can't get to re-install xp

[LuDaCriS66]

Im trying to re-install XP on a friends system.. and after the copying of the installation files, it reboots the system to try to get to the setup process and it gives me this "Error Loading Operating System" message...

MS's knowledge base has this problem here
http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=326676

The system in question here is an HP 751n .... there are no BIOS updates available newer than the one already installed.
I'm about to give up trying to install XP from a CD...

so I figured, fine.. I give up, I'll use the hidden partition to reload Windows. HP's default key to enter the hidden partition is F10... and it's not working!!!!


Damn it... this is why I don't buy prebuilt computers ...... I'm out of ideas.

anyone?

 

[blazerazor]

Use a 98bootDisk. Fdisk and unpartition the HP junk (waste of good Hd space) then format the hardDrive. or use "zerofill" to wipe it clean. Then do a fresh install. You wont have all those unnessary programs Hp/compaq puts in there.

Why I like dell, gives you all software on cds - not harddirve!

 

[LuDaCriS66]

Would that actually help though? The partition I'm trying to install it to is already formatted... and theres actually another parition on the drive I created to backup my friend's files..

 

[Camofrog]

i agree I think you are going to have to totally wipe the HD download a zero-fill or low-level format utility for that particular drive brand.