Windows Installer doesn't detect disk

  • Thread starter Thread starter Robert Blackwell
  • Start date Start date
R

Robert Blackwell

I'm trying to reinstall windows but when I get to the part where you usually
choose a disk/partition it doesn't detect any.
Originally I saw 4 items but thats what I realized I had my media thing
plugged into the usb for my compact flash cards.

I've never encountered this problem before. My HD is a Seagate SATA 160gb.
Here's a screenshot of my disk in the Disk Manager
http://www.wowcentral.com/random/diskmanagement.jpg
Since my computer is a Dell I believe these partitions are used for thier
proprietary image backup/restore stuff.

I've already backed up all my important stuff so I'm just fine getting rid
of that stuff all together as I plan to make my own image with ghost after I
reinstall.

Thanks.
 
You may have to install your SATA controller drivers first. This can be
accomplished by booting from the cd and pressing F6 when prompted to install
a 3rd party raid/scsi controller. Insert manufacturers floppy when prompted
and follow directions for installation.

Good luck
 
Robert Blackwell said:
I didn't get a floppy with my computer. Can I download generic ones
somewhere?
Click to expand...

Anybody who sells computers with Windows installed is supposed to
include some method of restoring the computer to the way it was when
you received it. Lots of manufacturers include "restore" CDs, that
will do this chore (unfortunately, they do this instead of giving you
an actual OS CD). Others have a directory somewhere on the hard drive
that contains *.cab files and an executable (*.exe) that will use
these to restore the original configuration. Look in the documentation
that came with your machine, it should tell you how to return to the
original configuration.
 
I dont want to return it to the original condition because they have a lot
of preinstalled software that I dont want to have to remove. I know how to
install windows, that's not the problem. I just need to know how to have the
setup recognize my sata drive.
 
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