Welcome to Geeks to Go - Register now for FREE

Need help with your computer or device? Want to learn new tech skills? You're in the right place!
Geeks to Go is a friendly community of tech experts who can solve any problem you have. Just create a free account and post your question. Our volunteers will reply quickly and guide you through the steps. Don't let tech troubles stop you. Join Geeks to Go now and get the support you need!

Javascript Disabled Detected

You currently have javascript disabled. Several functions may not work. Please re-enable javascript to access full functionality.

Can't install Windows XP on wiped HDD

Started by oldtoot , Mar 18 2011 01:50 PM

Please log in to reply

#1
oldtoot

Posted 18 March 2011 - 01:50 PM

Member

Member
40 posts

I am trying to install Windows XP from an HP recovery disk to a wiped Toshiba IDE hard disk drive, Model K2018GAS that came with an HP Pavilion ze4610 laptop I bought on Ebay. I get the message that says, in so many words, "Setup cannot find an installed disk drive, be sure all connections are good, setup cannot continue etc...." The BIOS says there is no HDD installed and the HDD activity light comes on briefly on startup then goes out. I installed another HDD that is an IBM,I know this one is good as it was previously used as an external HDD in an enclosure to backup files. With the IBM HDD, same result, BIOS says no HDD installed, (this version of BIOS, by default automatically reads HDD interface type, or is supposed to) same error message, except that the activity light now comes on and stays on. In neither instance am I able to continue with the Windows XP installation. Thanks for any help!