How do I format C?

Question

Hello, im trying to rebuild my computer with XP and yes i know the XP CD does everything, BUT IT DOESNT. when i restart my comp with it in, I get to the windows setup and blam: blue screen. why would i get a blue screen in windows setup?!?! anyway so im gonna try to format c and then try to install xp. but i cant seem to format C. i have a brand new Dell XPS. ideas? and i cant use a sweeper floppy boot up cuz i dont have a floppy drive

in response to my first asnwer:
ok buddy, you cant format c WHILE WINDOWS IS RUNNING ON C

please only answer if you know what youre talking about -.-

Answer 1

You could use Darik's Boot and Nuke. DBAN

As you are keeping this PC for your own use, you can use the least secure wipe to save time.

There is an ISO version you can write to CD.

I don't think this is going to solve your problem. Even with the empty hard drive, you will get the BSOD, only now you won't have an operating system on your PC.

I've experienced problems with bad RAM causing problems with Windows installs. Could this be why you want to reinstall Windows in the first place? Try removing and reinstalling your RAM and any expansion cards in your PC. Sometimes these devices don't get a good enough connection and cause random problems with Windows.

It is also possible that your PC has a serial ATA hard drive controller. Many times these controllers are treated as SCSI controllers as far as Windows is concerned.

Very shortly into the Windows install process setup will ask you to press F6 to install a SCSI controller. This prompt only flashes for a couple of seconds so be ready for it. Press the F6 key and use your Dell drivers disk to install the driver for your hard drive controller.

Answer 2

That's kind of weird that you're getting a blue screen.
Is it a BSOD? Blue screen of death, with numbers and letters all over the place?
When was the last time you used that XP cd?
I personally use a CD that has scripts in it to set up older versions of Windows. The CD boots me to the dos screen, where I can launch format or fdisk fright from the CD.

However yes, I usually use the XP CD.
If you're getting a BSOD with the CD, I would attempt to use another CD Rom first.
It's either the CD or the CD Rom. I really don't think it's the hard drive, since that's not really being accessed yet in this process.

It could very well be the RAM, however.

Answer 3

Same thing happened to me. It was bad memory. I replaced the memory and it was fine. You might want to do a memory diag. to see. See: http://support.dell.com for Dell diag tools. If it's new, it's still under warranty.

Answer 4

right click the mouse button and look for: Format C: and then it will ask you if you want to do a quick format or a full format, i recomennd you do a full format.