where is my Windows xp system disk?

[bassetrox]

A few months ago i purchased an IBM thinkpad laptop from a local branch
of staples (UK). The laptop was supplied without a windows xp system
disc.

I am given to understand that this is now common procedure and that the
files that would have been on the disk are stored on the hard disk
drive on the laptop.

Where do i look for the files in order to make a copy for my own piece
of mind?

If i plan to reformat the HDD will these files be erased?

 

[M and D]

"Where do i look for the files in order to make a copy for my own piece of mind?"
Recovery files are located on a hidden partition. Staples can show you where they are and how to copy them (if that's possible.)

"If i plan to reformat the HDD will these files be erased?"
Not if you plan to ;-), but if you actually do it they will be erased.

Steven

 

[Steve]

Look at the book screen for a clue. For example on an Acer it's alt+F10 to
access the recovery program. Sometimes you have to go into the bios and
enable this option (B2B recovery in the case of the Acer)

Also you should have an option on the Programs menu to make a copy of the
backup partition. Look for Recovery tools or something similar.

 

[AJR]

A "favorite" tactic for laptop manufacturers, rather than provide actual
CDs, is to create a hidden partition to hold the OS and applications for
recovery (as alluded to in the previous post) - another indication of the
presence of the hidden partition is what appears to be an "unusual" amount
of used space, e.g. much larger than can be accounted for by installed
applications, files, etc.