remove everything from computer and start scratch

[1BADMUTT]

i would like to delete everything on my computer and reinstall everything
from a reinstall cd.i have nothing i need to save and would like to start
over on a clean computer.i have the operating system reinstallation cd
microsoft xp home sp2 and the application cd for reinstalling dell tools
system software that i got from dell and i was wondering if this is all i
need to be able to get my computer back after i delete the whole system.if so
does anyone know how i would go about deleting everything?i have no restore
points or any way to reset everything to original factory settings after i
lost everything last year and had to take it to repair shop to have
everything reinstalled (C drive etc.)and i would like to be able to do it
myself if the cd's i mentioned will work.thanks for any help

 

[Michael Jennings]

There are some videos and a number of people's experiences here:
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=dell+reinstall+windows&aq=f&oq
The first link there suggests a Dell troubleshooter which will guide you
to select answers as to what you've got - pro or home and dell model.

 

[ladym50+]

-- --- --- --- ---- ----
I am not an expert, but I've formatted my computer before with good results.
My computer is Gateway, but since you have XP and SP2, it should work well
with Dell as well.

Use this advice with caution. Before you do anything take a look at this
link:
http://support.gateway.com/s/SOFTWARE/Medialess/MLXPMC0/MLXPMC0su13.shtml

Make sure you save anything like photos, documents, etc. to a disc or memory
card, before beginnig the procedure.

It make take you a whole day to do all this, so be prepared.

1. Shut off the computer
2. Disconnect devices like printer, scanner....
3. Put the (System Recovery Disc) in the disc drive
4. Turn on the computer back on, and repetedly tap the F11 key
(keep clicking until the disc opens on the desktop)
5. On the "Full System Restore Options, click "Destructive"
6. Just follow the directions on the disc.
(When it's all done the disc will reaload all the programs and drivers)
7. Download the second disc (Operating System Disc)
(Follow the instructions on the disc)

Now your computer will be like when you first got it. You may have to
reestablish a connection to the internet with your ISP. If you use AOL ,you
can use the AOL cd, if you have it to install the software.

Reinstall any devices, like printer, scaneer etc. and reinstall any files
you have saved on cd or other device.

The updates will start to pour in.

em