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General discussion

uninstall xp

Jan 11, 2005 12:05AM PST

Hi! my pc came with windows ME, I tried upgrading it to XP using a borrowed disc. It wouldnt install, a message saying my hard drive was corrupt appeared. now I cant get rid of XP! when I start up an option appears (ME or XP)various progs wont work like nero & dvd player.I just want to go back to ME. any help welcome please!

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The person you borrowed the CD from...
Jan 11, 2005 3:36AM PST

would likely be the person to ask for help with your resulting problem.

They are surely aware that such loaning is illegal and rectifying their error would be a nice gesture.

If all else fails take this lesson to heart then break out your system restore disks and restore your system to its manufacturer specs. Data files may be lost if you haven't been backing up but that is just one of the many costs of associating yourself with less than legal activities.

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Bob, You CAN'T Use a 'Borrowed' XP CD....
Jan 11, 2005 3:52AM PST

Microsoft works hard to prevent those types of things. That's called "piracy". Those steps include the necessity for PURCHASING the Windows XP CD to allow for a LEGAL "product key" and "activation". Activation of XP using the product key can ONLY be done on a single computer. If you don't "activate" Windows XP shortly after it's installed,(about 30 days) it won't work anymore...

At this point, based on your description of the error message, I would buy a new computer...You've probably got all sorts of system files that are now damaged or corrupted.

Another option is to purchase a LEGAL XP CD, make sure the computer BIOS is set to boot from the CD-ROM first, then place the XP in the drive and restart the computer. You can then reformat the computer's hard drive (although because of the error message, you should probably replace the drive), then install XP...Of course, whenever upgrading to Windows XP, it's EXTREMELY important to spend time in preparation first. You need to download NEW DRIVERS for all hardware on the computer, BIOS, video, audio, modems, ethernet cards, etc. because the Windows ME drivers usually don't work...In addition, sometimes the devices and programs aren't supported by XP at all...

The other option is to format the drive and reinstall Windows ME with all software and drivers. But as mentioned, if the drive is headed "south", you might consider replacing the drive or purchasing a new computer with XP already installed.

BEFORE doing all of this, you should BACK UP all important documents and files so they can be easily transferred to the computer.

Hope this helps.

Grif