Using the Operating System CD
Before You Begin
If you are considering a reinstall of the Windows XP operating system to correct a problem with a newly installed driver, first try using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback (see "Using Windows XP Device Driver Rollback" on page 54). If Device Driver Rollback does not resolve the problem, then use System Restore to return your operating system to the operating state it was in before you installed the new device driver (see "Using Microsoft Windows XP System Restore" on page 56).
NOTICE: Before performing the installation, back up all data files on your primary hard drive. For conventional hard drive configurations, the primary hard drive is the first drive detected by the computer.
To reinstall Windows XP, you need the following items:
•Dell™ Operating System CD
•Dell ResourceCD
NOTE: The ResourceCD contains drivers that were installed during assembly of the computer. Use the ResourceCD to load any required drivers. Depending on the region from where you ordered your computer, or whether you requested the CDs, the Drivers and Utilities CD and Operating System CD may not ship with your system.
Reinstalling Windows XP
The reinstallation process can take 1 to 2 hours to complete. After you reinstall the operating system, you must also reinstall the device drivers, virus protection program, and other software.
NOTICE: The Operating System CD provides options for reinstalling Windows XP. The options can overwrite files and possibly affect programs installed on your hard drive. Therefore, do not reinstall Windows XP unless a Dell technical support representative instructs you to do so.
1Save and close any open files and exit any open programs.
2Insert the Operating System CD. Click Exit if the Install Windows XP message appears.
3Restart the computer.
4Press <F12> immediately after the DELL™ logo appears.
If the operating system logo appears, wait until you see the Windows desktop, and then shut down the computer and try again.
5Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.
Troubleshooting Tools
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