Need to format Dell Latitude laptop computer

[badbilly27]

I purchased a Dell Latitude Cpi D300xt from a local company to add to my wireless home network for the kids to play with. The computer has windows 98 on it but I can't find how to change settings to connect to the home network.

I usually go control panel-network-configuration/identification/access - however this computer doesn't allow me anything other than configuration option. Maybe the local company customized it? Old Windows 98 version? No clue. So I thought it might make sense just to format the hard drive and install windows 2000 on it (XP possibly but unsure if system will be fast enough). I've never formatted a hard drive on a working system especially a laptop.

Can somone suggest some steps I should follow?
What about Dell drivers (audio, video, docking, etc.)? I think they are available at Dell site but when in the process and how do I reinstall them?
Have this fear I format the hard drive and because drivers missing won't be able to access computer to load appropriate drivers.

All suggestion are welcome. Thanks.

 

[LiLithTecH]

How much memory does the laptop have?
Running Win2k on with less than 128 will push it to the limit.
(it will constantly cache to the HD, contributing to an already
bad heat factor)

Installing Win2k should go smoothly, the only caution would be
when installing the Docking Station drivers.

Install Win2k connected to the dock (update any drivers/Service Pak as needed - DO NOT INSTALL DOCK DRIVERS!).
Power Down. Undock the Laptop from Docking station.

Power up and INSTALL DOCK DRIVERS. Power Down.

Connect Laptop to Dock. Boot to OS. Follow prompts.

 

[johnjkr1]

Actually, I have a CPId 300 and win2k. Formatting is simple. Put in your 2k disc, boot to the cd, destroy the partitions, recreate the partitions, format ntfs, install 2k. All of the drivers are native to 2k. Of course, you will have to install your network drivers since there is not built in networking on a cpi. Feel free to send me a message (aim or pm) and I would be glad to help.

 

[Aleksandar]

If you got a self boot cd (windows 2000) then just insert the cd in the drive and restart maby you need to change the boot devices in the bios so it will boot the cd if not then create a floppy go to www.bootdisk.com
download the win 98se boot disk insert it restart when you get to dos type fdisk del the partrition if you whant or just type format c: in dos after that type youre cdrom drive letter ex: d: press enter and type setup
or winnt if this dosent work then type cdrom letter ex: cd d:\i386 press enter then type winnt or setup

 

[LiLithTecH]

Aleksandar:

You can not use a Win98 bootdisk to install Win2k.
If required, create the 4 Bootdisks off the Win2k CD itself (or D/L from internet).

Also, there is no need to Partition or Format the drive as this can be done during
the Win2k Setup/Install.

 

[Aleksandar]

LiLithTecH yes you can the win98 bood disk is the best boot disk for me you cant format an ntfs partrition
but you can install win xp win 2000 win 2003 win 98 win 95 anything do do some reaserch