Cannot reinstall windows xp on DELL pc

[kk]

Hi
I need to reinstall windows xp on my DELL dimension 9150. I boot the
windows cd and choose install (and delete everything) but when asked
what partitiion to install windows on, none of my partition are being
recognized. Nor can I create new partition; kind of blue screen error
telling me to update bios, which i did, in vain.

I have read that the Dell pc's might "prefer" that I use the Dell
restore CD, but unfortunately I have lost this CD.

I have run diagnostics, scandisks etc.. but nothing helps. Is it
really impossible to re-install windows xp pro on a DELL pc without
the restore CD?

Any help is appreciated as this problem is seriously getting on my
nerves.

Cheers
\\Kristian

 

[John John]

You can install Windows XP on Dell computers with a retail CD, it isn't
required that you absolutely use the Dell Restoration cd.

You probably have to press the F6 key very early on during the setup and
supply the SATA drivers on a flopply diskette. Pay close attention when
the setup begins, at the bottom of the screen you will see a prompt
instructing you to press F6 to install mass storage or RAID drivers.
You have to press F6 when prompted, if you miss it you have to reboot
and restart the setup again.

You should be able to find the drivers for the SATA controller on the
Dell site. Using your Service Tag number you can start your search
here:
http://search.dell.com/results.aspx...spf=&ssysid=&ssysn=&stag=&~srd=False&~ck=anav

John