Enhancing existing Windows XP images from IDE Mode

Corporate IT may be able to update an existing Windows XP image to be AHCI-compatible that was created in IDE mode. The process requires inserting the AHCI drivers into the image in a pre-installation environment. Once that is done, the system can be switched to AHCI mode safely.

Required software to insert the AHCI driver:

•Windows Preinstallation Environment (WinPE) CD

•Windows OPK (OEM Preinstallation Kit) CD

•MSDINST.EXE (Mass Storage Device Installer)

The OPK CD is not available for general download. It must be obtained through a Microsoft authorized distributor. MSDINST.EXE is a tool designed to insert mass storage drivers into an offline Microsoft Windows XP image.

For more information and instructions about OPK or MSDINST.EXE go to http://www.microsoft.com.

The process to update an existing Windows XP image to be AHCI compatible is as follows:

1.Boot into WinPE.

2.Run MSDINST.EXE from OPK.

MSDINST.EXE is executed from a command line where the location for the .inf file containing the PnP ID of the RAID/AHCI SATA controller of the target system and location of the Windows directory are specified.

For example: Newmsd.inf has the PnP IDs and it is in the C:\AddAHCI directory. C:\Windows is the location of the Windows directory. The command line is:

msdinst.exe c:\AddAHCI\newmsd.inf c:\windows /force

Newmsd.inf contents:

[SysprepMassStorage]

PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_2822&CC_0104 = C:\Compaq\MSD\Intel\iaStor.inf PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_3A02&CC_0106 = c:\Compaq\MSD\Intel\iaahci.inf PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_3A22&CC_0106 = c:\Compaq\MSD\Intel\iaahci.inf PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_3B22&CC_0106 = c:\Compaq\MSD\Intel\iaahci.inf PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_1C02&CC_0106 = c:\Compaq\MSD\Intel\iaahci.inf PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_1E02&CC_0106 = c:\Compaq\MSD\Intel\iaahci.inf

…where:

Dev 2822 is the device ID for Intel(R) Desktop/Workstation/Server Express Chipset SATA Controller Dev 3A02 is the device ID for Intel(R) ICH10D/DO SATA AHCI Controller

Dev 3A22 is the device ID for Intel(R) ICH10R SATA AHCI Controller Dev 2B22 is the device ID for Intel(R) PCH SATA AHCI Controller.

Dev 1C02 is the device ID for Intel(R) Desktop/Workstation/Server Express Chipset SATA AHCI Controller. DEV 1E02 is the device ID for Intel(R) 7 Series/C216 Chipset Family SATA RAID Controller.

3.Reboot the computer.

4.Enter F10 Setup and change SATA Emulation mode to AHCI.

5.Reboot the computer into Windows XP.

_GTF Support (HP 8100 and 8200 Business PCs only)

HP Elite 8000 and 8100 Business PCs support _GTF (Get Task File) AHCI control method when in AHCI mode. The Intel AHCI driver needs a registry key to enable _GTF for each port. This registry key has been added with the Windows XP, Vista or Windows 7 image that ships with HP Elite 8100 and 8200 Business PCs.

For customers using their own image, the following key is required:

HKLM\System\CCS\Services\iaStor\Parameters\Port[X]

name:GTF

value: 0=disabled 1=enabled

…where [X] represents the physical AHCI port of the connected drive to be _GTF enabled. To enable _GTF support for all ports, set this value under each port (Port0, Port1...PortN).

8200 tower specifications

The HP 8200 Tower is a robust desktop computer designed for professional environments, delivering performance and expandability for a variety of business needs. This workstation is part of HP's Elite series, known for its reliability and advanced technologies, making it a sound choice for companies requiring consistent operation.

One of the defining features of the HP 8200 Tower is its versatile processing power, powered by the Intel Core i5 and i7 processors. These processors offer a multi-core architecture, ensuring that users can efficiently handle multitasking and processor-intensive applications. With options for up to 32GB of DDR3 RAM, the HP 8200 Tower can smoothly run multiple applications simultaneously, making it suitable for tasks ranging from everyday office work to more demanding software like graphical design programs.

The system also provides a range of storage options, including traditional hard disk drives and faster solid-state drives, allowing users to select the balance of capacity and speed that best suits their needs. Additionally, the HP 8200 supports RAID configurations, enhancing data redundancy and performance, thereby protecting critical business data.

In terms of expandability, the HP 8200 Tower offers multiple PCIe slots for adding graphic cards, sound cards, or other expansion cards. This capability makes it adaptable for various purposes, whether that involves improving graphics performance for video editing or integrating specialized hardware for specific business functions.

The design of the HP 8200 Tower ensures efficient cooling and quiet operation. It features a tool-less chassis, allowing for easy upgrades and maintenance. The internal layout maximizes airflow, keeping components cool even under heavy workloads, an important feature for maintaining long-lasting performance.

Connectivity options are plentiful, with USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports, enabling speedy data transfer and peripheral connectivity. Additionally, integrated Gigabit Ethernet offers reliable networking capabilities, essential for seamless communication within a business environment.

The HP 8200 Tower showcases HP's commitment to sustainability, featuring energy-efficient components and a design aimed at reducing environmental impact. Overall, this powerful workstation combines performance, expandability, and energy efficiency, making it an excellent choice for any professional setting. With its blend of modern technologies and traditional reliability, the HP 8200 Tower stands out as a dependable tool for businesses looking to enhance productivity.