While you didn't share the message about the bios not installed, there is a common message like that but it is not a failure but informational. I often disable the message so the owner isn't confused by it.
Many don't know a new drive will have to be prepared for use. With XP we use the DRIVE MANAGEMENT tool noted in XP's Start, Help and Support. This preperation is not optional.
Bob
When attempting to install windows XP on a recently built computer, i get the message that the hard disk and BIOS are not installed. I can access the BIOS without any problem, but how do i tell if the HDD is installed properly?
The HDD is connected and powered on, so why is it not recognized by windows?
Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance.

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