Hi

I have had some problems with displaying a picture as a background desktop. I think the problem was that I deleted a file thinking it was a virus, I lost my copy of XP, so could not fix it.
I now have a copy of XP, and I want to fix it.
It seeems to be an older version, so it wont let me re-install, I think.
I have looked at dr. watson ect, but dont know the next step.

Many thanks..E

Likely you'll have to do a clean install with a full format. Had to do this when I wanted to go from XP to 2000

Hi

I have 2 hard discs in my pc, I have formatted my extra HDD from this pc.
I dont know if it is connected correctly, if I go into set-up at start-up get I install to that disc?
And then copy all my files over after the install.

E

Sorry, I'm a little confused. Couple things you could try but it would be best to disconnect the Drive that does not currently have XP installed on it. First, you could try a Windows Repair off the CD but I don't know if it will work if it's an older version of XP than the one installed but it wouldn't hurt to try. You'll have to do all the Windows updates and may have to reinstall drivers but most of your programs should be OK. Back Up your data first. If you know what file you deleted, you could try copying it off the CD and pasting it in the directory it belongs. You can't simply install Windows on one drive and copy it to another. You'd have to use a program like Acronis True Image and Clone the drive but that will mean you have to reinstall everything, would basically be a clean install of Windows. If the Repair doesn't work and/or copying the deleted file, it would be easiest in the long run to do a clean install. It's basically putting more time in upfront to save time and pain over the long run. Again, if you do a clean install, disconnect the second driver and reconnect it after Windows is installed, otherwise your drive letters are likely to be screwed up, i.e., Windows will be installed on something other than the C drive.

system restore give that a try or if not get undelete handy tool

Hi

I will try a clean install on my other 80Gb disc, maybe at the weekend. I may just unplug my current disc, and then the other HDD should be the main disc.
I can see it from win explorer and I have formated it. I assume that will be ok.

I will have to copy my files first, is there a simple way. I do have a 1Gb mem stick and DVD writer.
I can easily copy files, what about settings and email address book etc.

Many thanks..E

You should be able to export you address book as well as your favorites. Sinse you have two hdd I'd back up everything on the 2nd one, i.e., you're not installing Windows on. Once Windows is installed reconnect the drive.