xp installation fails with this exact error: "Setup cannot access the CD containing the Windows XP installation files" after selecting and inspecting installation target partition. Google'ing does nothing. No explanations for reason. CD drive is Samsung CD-R/W TS-H292A, firmware upgrade is done. Works fine under windows 98 and with win98 bootdisk real mode drivers. Hitachi ATA133 HD is a primary master, CD drive is secondary master, jumpers a in right place. Tryed also winnt32.exe switches /makelocalsource and /tempdrive, after installation files copy phase and restart installation continues with target partition selection and inspection and fails anyway at this point. What I messed? Any idea?

Sounds like install isn't loading the driver for the RW. Go to samsungs web site and see if they have a driver you can add via floppy disk during the first phase of setup [hit f6 when you see it in lower left corner] Golly gee wilerkers everyone. Learn to Internet Search

You may get the error message :Setup cannot access the CD containing the Windows XP installation files during setup for for one of the following reasons: • The motherboard of your computer may not be compatible with Windows XP. • The BIOS of your computer may not be compatible with Windows XP. • The hard disk you are installing to may be damaged. • The Windows XP Setup CD may be damaged. My first troubleshoot will be the easiest and least expensive procedure of Cleaning the Disc using a disc cleaning kit, or gently wipe the silver side of the disc with a soft, lint-free cotton cloth. Do not use paper cloth which can scratch the plastic and leave streaks. When you clean the disc, wipe from the center of the disc outward. Do not use a circular motion. M