Hi, I've been attempting to install Win XP over Vista in my Dell XPS 410. I'm using the XP boot disc from an older Dell laptop. What happens is that I go into the Standard CMOS and set the boot priority to the CD-ROM first. Then the disc boots up and I get the message "press any key to boot" I do so. I get a blue screen with a message saying Windows Settings and at the bottom it shows what is being installed. At the end it says" Windows is starting up" Then I get a blue screen and the standard error message of "Unable to Install". I've attempted this twice with the same result. Is this an issue with the XP boot disc itself and do I need to go out an buy the retail version?

Mind telling us *specifically* why you are downgrading from Vista to XP? After all, this is the Vista problem forum.

Using "restore" CDs/DVDs for systems other than they were originally intended can be problematic. Sometimes they are designed to be used only with a specific model computer.

I suggest you get a true XP install CD and use it.

In any case, the reason why the Dell XP CD from the old Dell don't work on the new Dell PC is due to a mismatch on the way Dell branded the CD and hardware. If you understand what I am talking about - great. If not, I will try to better explain it when I have the chance. In this case, your only option would be to fork over $$$ for the retail XP CD.

i_XpUser

Be aware that you are likely to run into problems when you install XP using the retail M$ CD. M$ CD may not have the required drivers unique to Dell XPS 410. When this happen you will have a very difficult time finding them on Dell site. Dell doesn't distribute drivers on a standalone basis for use with any other OS other than Vista.

i_XpUser

XPS/Dimension 410/9200

http://support.dell.com/support/dow...

Gee I guess my long-time perception of who & what Dell really are - is in dire needs for a complete makeover.

Dell apparently want us to believe they're now a reformed "born-again" & honesty-down-to-earth company. Read Dell's confessions below that apologized for its own lawyer's overreaction & nastygram to a blogger...

http://direct2dell.com//one2one/arc...

Hmmm ... on second thought I think Dell's still tacky about it it especially with Confession Number 22. I will wait & see if they really will deliver the Remove-All-Crapware Utility tool this week ...

i_XpUser

I would format your hard drive using Killdisk which is free. This will clear the nbr record which format won't. i used to do this a lot trying to install XP over linux software, Then I would install XP.

It states SATA Drives, therefore it is quite likely XP does not have the Controller Chipset Drivers.

You will need to make the Intel Driver Floppy and slipsteam drivers into XP with nLite, create an ISO and burn it, ie custom XP CD !!

Really more an XP than a Vista ?????