Unique Problem in Formatting Hard Drive

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

Ron wrote:
>
> I have read all the posts for formatting the hard drive for XP. I have
> loaded the CD and have gone through the instructions just like others have
> suggested, however, the process will not allow me to delete the partition
> because it says it, "contains temp files that are required to complete
> installation". This is not allowing me to remove the partition, so I can
> reload XP and start from scratch. The partition obligates my whole hard
> drive, so I am unable to add a new partition. Additionally, I tried to
> format C: using the repair menu and DOS prompt without success. Please help?!
> --
> RSM

If you are savvy enough to create a DOS bootable floppy disk, you can
use delpart. Copy it to the floppy, boot off it, and run delpart.exe.
Just BE CAREFUL - this will definitely whack all your data. I usually
make sure that I disconnect other drives when I use it so as not to
wipe the wrong drive.

http://www.juliatexas.com/delpart/delpart.exe

Good luck.