Win XP Install/Reinstall Problems

Archived from groups: microsoft.public.windowsxp.basics (More info?)

It looks like I have finally found the right newsgroup. I have been
struggling for about two weeks, to get XP reinstalled. I have two versions,
1. An upgrade that upgrades from ME, from computer manufacturer, and
2. An OEM version that I bought separately.

I want to run XP on two primary partitions on the first hard drive, with one
hidden. I want to use "BootMagic". I understand about "changing the
Boot.ini".

First Question: Why would I not be able to boot from OEM version? I get the
"to boot from CD, hit any key". I hit a key and the current operating
system loads. I have two CD-Rom drives, would that confuse the system? I
am sure that I have tried both. I recently checked some vendors, and it
seems that most only offer the OEM or Upgrade, but what good is the OEM if
it won't boot?

Second Question: Would an install over ME cause problems such as 1. Empty
Control Panel (no files), 2. Software installation problems (I installed MS
Office 2000, and when I open Word or Excel, I get a message that it is
installing, and sometimes it wants me to insert the installation disk).
Windows Installer opens almost constantly trying to "install something". I
now have the directions for doing a clean install from the "system
restore/upgrade CD", which I haven't tried yet, but I will.

Third and last (for now) Question: Is it safe (advisable) to use "settings
and files" transfer. What files are transferred? Would it be better to just
choose "settings"?

I would appreciate any help.
--
Herman
Herman Naron