Windows just will not install

[morkus64]

I've tried two different discs, a usb drive (well, an sd card in an adapter).

I've tried two different hard drives.

Tried windows 7 and xp.

Tried different ram, video card and onboard video.

Every time install hangs or crashes at various stages (seems to get a little further with cd generally)

On a shuttle XPC SG31G2

WTF?

TIA!

 

[MagnusTheBrewer]

If the ram was on the qualified list, I would look at the PSU. Failing that, you might have to RMA the MB. I'm assuming both HDD's you tried were bare?

 

[MJinZ]

It's the RAM.

It's always the RAM.

 

[morkus64]

I actually don't think it is the ram...

i cleared the cmos and got further, but eventually got "windows cannot read the installation source"

 

[MagnusTheBrewer]

I actually don't think it is the ram...

i cleared the cmos and got further, but eventually got "windows cannot read the installation source"

Is the ram on the qualified list? Have you tried using just one stick?

 

[morkus64]

Is the ram on the qualified list? Have you tried using just one stick?

I don't know if it's on the qualified list, but i've tried using one stick, two sticks, once different stick, two different sticks.

I've have windows (xp) on this pc before.

 

[MagnusTheBrewer]

OK, here's the list. I know you think it's fine due to having XP installed previously but, the trouble shooting process involves eliminating possible conflicts so you have to be very methodical about what you know and what you don't know.

It would also help if you listed all the components you are working with.

 

[morkus64]

Yeah it's on there.

Latest is just tried xp setup - setup sees the HDD at first, then when i try to delete a partition or anything it goes wonky and can't find it anymore.

 

[MagnusTheBrewer]

Yeah it's on there.

Latest is just tried xp setup - setup sees the HDD at first, then when i try to delete a partition or anything it goes wonky and can't find it anymore.

Please list your components.
Format the drive.

 

[morkus64]

western digital sata 250gb hdd
patriot pc5300 - 512mb
geforce fx5900
core 2 duo - i forget which model is in there - if it matters i'll check

 

[MagnusTheBrewer]

Reading between the lines, are you trying to install an OS on drives that already had an OS or other info on another partition? Please give all the details of what you're trying to do.

 

[RebateMonger]

1) Boot to a Memtest 86+ 4.x boot disk and run an overnight memory test.
2) Run the disk maker's diagnostics program on the disk you are trying to istall to. Also, disconnect any other disks besides the intended boot disk during the test and during the Windows install process.