new system won't go into DOS, can't partition HDD

[kros101]

I just put my computer together, and am trying to format the new 40G HDD on a CUSL2-C mobo. I tried many different changes in the BIOS and it still won't take me to a dos screen. After the POST test, it just says "PRESS A KEY TO REBOOT" and it keeps asking me this no matter what.
I know its very little information to help me troubleshoot, but I think it's all I have. I also tried to let the cd-rom with the win98 SE disk boot first, but nothing. Please help!

In the BIOS, for the Translation method I choose Manual for the HDD and enter correct information, it doesn't recognize it on bootup unless I choose LBA (Logical Block Addressing) instead, and wrong grayed out info is used automatically.
Could it be that I have to update the BIOS to accept the 40G HDD? I don't think so b/c it was made in April 2000, and the mobo in i think Fall 2000.
Award Bios 1.0A Rev 1003

 

[bluesky]

Are you sure your floppy drive is working and sure the floppy is set to be the first boot drive?
Then use a boot disk, or a startup disk to go into dos mode.
You can also use a disk from the hd manufacturer like Max Blast Plus from Maxtor

 

[ku]

fooling around in the bios won't help unless you're floppy drive isn't working... if it isn't, i dont know, if it is, use a boot disk

 

[AKA]

Reset the BIOS defaults and leave the hard drive on Auto.

Do you have a scsi card installed?

 

[bluegi]

make sure your ide cables are connected correctly...if you don't have the cables , jumper settings right it will not post right..

bluegi