installing XP on dell computers

[bob123]

Ive just bought a Dell desktop and a Laptop. Both with Vista pre installed. I hate Vista and keep getting all sorts of incompatibility issues. So i decided id do what i did with my last laptop and install XP onto them. However with both, XP startup crashes with the blue screen error message? I dont even get to the stage where u can decide whether u want to format/delete partition etc? I phoned up Dell support and they told me the comps are designed for vista and therefore u arent able to install XP? This doesnt sound right? Anyone know how i can get XP installed?

[abigsmurf]

Judging by your description, the blue screen is almost certainly caused by bad drivers. See if you can get proper XP drivers that work with your laptop.

[smouty]

Set the SATA mode to legacy or whatever it is called.
I have about 100 Dell XP SP2 recovery CDs is you need one. This will have the drivers integrated for most recent Dell machines.

[bob123]

thanks for all ur help. i think im gonna stick with Vista for now. ive managed to solve most of the issues.

[RetroRevival]

SATA mode seem to be a problem when installing XP.

I had luck changing the SATA mode int he bios from AHCI to IDE.

Hope this helps

[Kit]

Yep, just go to Sata configuration and change mode from ACHI to IDE - problem solved.

Alternatively, you should have the ACHI drivers knocking around somewhere. Stick them on a floppy, Press f6 when the ‘install third part drivers’ message pops up, and install from there - this will allow XP to see the rest of your hard drive if it's over 130gb.

Edit:

I should add you'll only see 130gb if you don't have service pack 2 on your installation disc.