Partitions, vista, factory.wim & other things

OK i want to delete vista partition an install ubuntu

i've got a ubuntu dell reinstalation dvd..

The point is, i want to be able to restore the laptop to the factory settings..

but how?

I have the vista partition, then i got the backup partition which i used to install XP64 there (moved the factory.wim out of the partition to have some space there)

so basicly i would now delete the vista partition, but i stopped - because, i realy dont know..
Is only vista able to restore the factory wim ? I read that i need to push F8 or CTRL F8 in the "dell screen" but there are no "something" to restore the image ..

my question are many

1) i got a dell reinstall ubuntu dvd, if i would the "whole disk" to install, it would destroy all the partition or, just the vista and leave the other alone - or ?
2) how to restore the WIM - who has done it and can help?
-> i just need it to KNOW i CAN do it, i dont need to restore it realy

3) how do you use your partitions? did you delete the backup, mediadirect partition - or you just use the default vista OS?

 

any help with it?

 

1. If you select whole disk it will erase the entire disk.
2. It would be easier to just use your Vista restore CD.
3. It depends on what you are trying to accomplish. If you don't want the restore partition by all means get rid of it and reclaim the space. Then you can dual boot or whatever you wish.

 

but dont i need the restore partition - the mediadirect - for example, when something bad happens with the laptop?

 

As long as you have youre restore CD you can always reload the OS. You should have your drivers CD as well. That's all you'll need should you have to reload the OS.