can't format non-OS HD

[Callie]

I did a clean install XP Home on my 2nd HD (D because I
couldn't figure out how to get it on over the one that was
already there on the C: drive. Now I want to format the
C: because nothing on it is any good, and I'm getting
a "dual boot" sort of situation every time I turn the
computer on. I'm planning on using the 2nd HD for storage
so need all the old stuff cleaned off.

I tried to format c: but it said there was something using
it and asked me if I wanted to dismount the drive. Do I
want to dismount it? What might be using it?

Thanks,

Callie

 

[attackbunny]

Are you sure you did a clean install? If you ran the disk
from within your previous OS (probably on C your install
is anything but clean. If you ran it that way the boot
sector is still on your c: drive (hence the dual boot
problem. If your MB supports your CDR then the best
option is to go into your cmos (usually f2 during post-see
mb manual or system docs) and choose your cdr as primary
boot device. Insert xp cd and restart your system.
Follow prompts and when you get to the install drive
selection delete the primary partition on c:, recreate it
and format ntfs (or fat32 if you need to access the drive
from an older os that doesn't support ntfs) then install
win xp. Hope this helps.

 

[Frank Fallon]

Clean install and wipe is your best shot.
Email me directly and I will get you a special wipe program.
To avoid spam, go to my web page and email me from the link.
http://home.kooee.com.au/kingul/xp.html?
And Or get wipe here:
http://home.kooee.com.au/kingul/stablexp.html
Later on, get a win 98 boot disk from www.bootdisk.com
Run fdisk and set up and format as fat 32.
(I see no reson not to use fat 32 for XP)
(And I have no problems).
Then run scandisk to scan your drive.
Your hard drive manufacturer may also have special tools.
Let me know your hard drive specifications.
I will check it out for you.