Problem reinstalling XP Pro

[Guest]

Hello. I had a problem with my 3rd party software, Palm. When I tried to
uninstall and reinstall Palm, I discovered a corrupted Windows root file.
Tried to fix, involved MS techs which made it worse. Not only can't use Palm,
now I can't use Word, Excel, etc. I would like to reinstall Windows XP
Professioal from my disk. Start from scratch, wipe my disk clean and begin
with everything all over again. I've saved all my files. Dell desktop
originally came with all software loaded. Can't seem to reload XP operating
system from CD. Book that came with CD doesn't help. Trying to find concise
and clear instructions to load XP. Thanks.

 

[Loretta]

What error messages or what actually happens when you start the computer
with the cd in it? Is the BIOS set to boot from the CD drive?
Loretta

 

[Guest]

Hi. Nothing happens! The computer starts normally, pulling up my screens,
settings, etc. I've tried it w/ the CD in and turning on and restarting. I've
also tried to use Run in the start menu. Noether works. I just a normal
startup.

 

[Loretta]

Have you tried:
Using the F12 key during boot up to get a boot menu so you can choose the cd
drive?
Or:
Go into the BIOS and set the boot order so that it goes to the cd drive
first.?
Also, are you using the Dell system CD or the Restore CD? Which is for
drivers only.
Loretta

 

[Guest]

No. I thought it was the F8 key, like going into Safe Mode, but I didn't want
to try it until I was sure. I'm using the Dell Operating System CD for
Reinstalltion of XP Pro w/ Svc Pack 1. I have several (actually seven) other
seperate CD's. 2 w/ drivers and utilities, 4 w/ applications and 1 for the
monitor.
I will try F12 next Or I can look up how to use BIOS?

 

[Guest]

Thank you Loretta for your help. I'll give your solutions a try. Once again,
Thank You.