[Sam]

Hello, im glad I came across this forum first of all, looks very helpful.
My problem is that I am unable to install windows xp on my dell mini 9. I deleted all partitions and now I am not even able to use my mini so I am desperate to get it fixed, as it is getting in the way of my studies. The problem is that I attempted installing windows xp, and theres lots of methods out there, the one I followed is found here: http://skarh.wordpress.com/2008/11/20/i ... omment-107 . Well the product key did not work and I dont know why because that product key belongs to the cd (it did not let me continue install without entering it) So, then I had no option except to shut it down and try again, and now, when I enter the txt mode setup, I get the message "Setup could not determine the type of computer you have, or you have chosen to manually specify the computer type. "select the computer type from the following list, or select "other" if you have a device support disk provided by you computer manufacturer. And I get the option of choosing between standard PC with C-step i486, after choosing that it crashes, I get a blue screen saying to restart with some errors. If, anyone could tell me whats wrong, I would be very grateful as it would save my life right now. And I dont mind if I need to install linux again, (just dont know how) because I am quite desperate to get it to function atm. Thanks.

[Sam]

Ps. I dont mind any other options of installation, if the problem is too confusing, thanks again.

[stultus]

Hi Sam,

First, in the thread you linked, you say that you downloaded an nlite ISO of XP. Here, you say that the CD key does not work. Well, you'll need to get this working before you go any further. I recommend buying a copy of XP.

Second, that option between standard PC and c-step are the bottom options for a list of 5 or 6. Scroll UP and select the long name with ACPI.

I have no idea what starting XP nlite options you're starting with, and that makes it very difficult to troubleshoot crashes and blue screens. Again, when you have better control over the source, I think you'll be in good shape.

If you want to put ubuntu back on the mini, this is the guide I followed: http://www.ubuntumini.com/2008/10/insta ... -mini.html I didn't bother with Dell's version.

Good luck.