When I try to do a repair install in Windows XP I don't get the option to do a repair. My only options are to install on the existing partition, but it says I will lose all my documents, etc. Does anyone know why XP is not allowing me the repair option? Case being a rebuild of a HP whose motherboard went out. New MB, processor, mem, but all other peripherals being the same? Help!!!

XP is recognizing a new computer. Your option is a clean install. All of your files should still be on the HD if you don't format, but you will have to reinstall all the applications and windows updates. Rgds.

Your O/S still has the drivers/settings for ur old mobo - that will create problems booting the PC or 'repairing'. Ideally, u should format and start again with a new mobo. If u have a separate drive/partition, then u could copy ur docs via a (Win98 startup disk) dos prompt and then format C etc. If u don't, then u could try copying ur docs to a new location on the C drive and re-install 'over the top'. Tho when I have tried this in the past, the original docs were not lost !! I would only suggest this as a temp measure while u transfer docs to cdr when up and running, as a format/clean install is the best way to go. GoodLuck

I have run into this problem with Dell computers. The option to repair the OS does not exsist and if you choose to continue you will loose some data. It appears to be a problem linked to OEM systems such as HP and Dell and I know of no way to get around it. KTTD

thanks for all the help. I was trying to get around this because their hp only has the imaged backup cds and wont install on the new MB. Mostly trying to save the costly apps. Hoping for one of those..."oh...just do this little quicky" type things, but I may be out of luck. Thanks for the replies

Does anyone think an upgrade version will work?