re-installing XP

[john]

I likely have a hardware problem (hard disk), but to
eliminate software as a potential cause, Dell service
technicians have instructed me to re-format c:\ and do a
fresh install of XP. However, they didn't mention HOW
(from within XP?, or reboot and go into DOS mode?) Holding
for another hour and a half on the Dell support system is
not a choice.

I would have thought I would need to boot off a floppy
with command.com on it (like in days of old), but not sure
what files I need to put on a floppy. or is this even
possible with a 'small' floppy disk.
Help!

 

[JAX]

The XP CD is bootable, you don't need a floppy. Set the BIOS to 1st boot
from CD and then follow the instructions from the following link.
http://michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html
Thanks to Michael Stevens

HTH, JAX