Repair/New Install from Hidden Boot

[lupi]

My 5 year old dell is starting to get corrupted file errors and other associated problems so I need to wipe it and reinstall. For this computer though I don't have the OS disc, it has some sort of special partition on the HD with the as sold data. I do have an extra copy of XP pro I could use.

If I want to just use the hidden partition to do a new install, how would I go about doing this?

 

[pcgeek11]

Originally posted by: lupi
My 5 year old dell is starting to get corrupted file errors and other associated problems so I need to wipe it and reinstall. For this computer though I don't have the OS disc, it has some sort of special partition on the HD with the as sold data. I do have an extra copy of XP pro I could use.

If I want to just use the hidden partition to do a new install, how would I go about doing this?

When you see the Blue Dell Banner across the screen top, press the Ctrl + F11 keys. This should kick it into recovery mode and boot into the hidden restore partition. You may have to make several attempts as you have to catch it at the right time.

Make sure all of your user data is backed up first as the recovery process will wipe out all data.

pcgeek11

 

[Athena]

Dell Technical article 336966 has a bit more detail about how to do it.

Basically, you backup your data, detatch all external devices then start the recovery program. Once it's done, you'll have to update the OS with 5 years worth of patches and drivers you can get from the Dell site.

You might want to check tosee that you have updated to latest BIOS version before you start.