switching os

[plmbob]

I just bought and tried to install windows xp media on my machine that was previously running vista 64 premium (that os just too much for my low skill level I guess) anyways, I completely removed the hd that contained vista and installed xp on a new drive but once the first boot into the os is attempted I simply get a message saying error occurred loading windows. Is this something to due with my bios and mabey some risidual vista crap stopping xp from loading. If so what do I do

[Stormcrow]

I had this issue with a clean install of XP, basically I would try reformatting the HDD and then installing the OS again. Also cleaning the disc to remove any particles interfering with the laser is a good idea. Vista and XP wouldn't conflict, in fact you can run them both together on the same HDD.

[plmbob]

thanks I've reformated a couple of times and the disk looks flawless and still having no luck

[Stormcrow]

Whats the full error message? Just "An error occurred loading Windows" or is there a code and some numbers with it?

[plmbob]

"there was an error loading the operating system" or something very close to that, no numbers or code. I am in the process of reformating again, this time I deleted the partitions and will remake them, it seemed to clean the drive "deeper" based on the new options it gave me. we will see what happens. I am still checking your responses so any input is appreciated.

[plmbob]

well some success. This deleting of the existing partitions instead of simply reformating the partition I wanted to install xp on seems to have worked. I now am entering the graphical interface portion of the install. thanks for your help storm in getting me to keep trying the reformating route as I had pretty much given up on that tactic.

[Stormcrow]

Yes, delete the partition(s) and then make new ones, followed by a clean install. Should have been more specific when I said reformatting. I do that whenever reinstalling Windows, as sometimes the partitions themselves are at fault.

Haha, no problem. Seems you figured it out while I was posting the news though, not so new now huh? If you run into any more problems, I'll be here for a little while longer.

[polobunny]

Yep as Stormcrow said, it happens that the partitions themselves are causing problems when installing Windows XP, even though it should not matter much. *shrugs*
Glad you got your stuff sorted out.

[fstroupe]

The MBR is not rewritten during a Windows install on a hard drive with multiple partitions. Even FIXMBR in the repair console won't work, or at least it has never worked for me.

[Quakindude]

Make sure you've backed up all your data form all partitions. Now delete all partitions on the HDD. Use XP to repartition and format and you'll be good to go.