I6400 and reinstalling xp

hello,
I have read the sticky on reinstalling xp, but still dont get it...
What I dont understand is why cannot I just insert the CD and reformat my pc
I dont want to deal with any partitions or anything, i just want a fresh install.
im requesting the cd's tonight for media directm xp reinstall etc...

must i do every step in the stick because its alot and reading the first 3 steps makes me confused
thanks

 

What specifically confuses you?

 

Drivers
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Most hardware devices require a driver – software that helps control the device. Use one of the following to obtain the drivers:

1.) Use the Dell Driver’s Disk that came with your XP disk – contains all the drivers issued for your laptop series (i.e. all Inspiron 9300 drivers are included on one disk). Once you run the software on the disk, the drivers that are compatible with your system will have a check-mark by them. Some driver categories might not have a check-mark, but still have a driver that is compatible with your system. You should still download these drivers. Warning: Drivers might not be the current versions

2.) Copy the driver’s folder from your hard drive – generally it is a folder labeled either “Drivers” or “Dell”. Copy this folder to a CD/DVD or to a jumpdrive. Once you have reformatted, copy the folder back to the c: drive. Most drivers will self install, but some won’t. Check the device manager for any devices without drivers. If there are any yellow question marks, right click on the specific device and select “Update Driver”. Warning: Drivers might not be the current versions

3.)Before you reformat, download and save your network driver (wireless or Ethernet) from Dell’s Support Website and burn it to a CD/DVD or save to a jumpdrive. After the reformat process, install this driver and then download the remaining drivers. You can also download and save all of the drivers ahead of time and burn them to a disk also. It is recommended to have a high speed connection if you choose this option.
Driver Categories:
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These are the driver categories for most Dell systems. The ones in red are required for all users. There are some drivers that are required for some, but not for others, so those are in green. The categories in black are completely optional.





Applications – optional software and Sonic updates.

Audio – required if you want sound.

Chipset – required for all systems; Ricoh driver is for SD cards on some systems.

Communication – required for modem/dial up connections

Diagnostic – optional

Display devices – only if you have an external monitor from dell

Flash BIOS – required

IDE/EIDE – depends on what hard-drive you have. If you have 5400rpm hard-drive, then you'll most likely need a driver from this category.

Input Device – required to help with touch pad controls

Network Device – required if you will have wireless/wired connection, or Bluetooth

Removable Media – Optical drivers (CD/DVD drive), USB media, etc. Most CD/DVD drives will have a driver here.

System/Configuration – Notebook System Software is required, others are optional

Video Driver – required for your LCD/graphics card






Do i do this before my reformat part?
Was i supposed to get this Dell Driver’s Disk when i first purchased my laptop, i may have to ask for another one.

this step i have no idea what to do

.) Copy the driver’s folder from your hard drive – generally it is a folder labeled either “Drivers” or “Dell”. Copy this folder to a CD/DVD or to a jumpdrive. Once you have reformatted, copy the folder back to the c: drive. Most drivers will self install, but some won’t. Check the device manager for any devices without drivers. If there are any yellow question marks, right click on the specific device and select “Update Driver”. Warning: Drivers might not be the current versions

what is a jumpdrive? can a usb stick work?

 

3.)Before you reformat, download and save your network driver (wireless or Ethernet) from Dell’s Support Website and burn it to a CD/DVD or save to a jumpdrive.



what is a network driver?

 

for the removable media storage device section download on the dell website, which driver should i download for my I6400?

 

Yes, you must complete most of the steps. Laptops are not like desktops. If you don't install the drivers, your laptop will not work properly. The driver's disc will come with your XP disc. Yes, you can use a USB stick.

On the networking question - the network driver allows you to connect to high speed internet. This is why you must get the drivers before you format. Once you format, you will not be able to connect to the internet.

As for the removable media storage, that depends on what cd/dvd drive you have. You might need it - you might not.

If you need to ask me several questions or want me to kind of walk you through the process, send me a PM and we can chat on aim/msn. Yes, you do have to deal with the partitions - mainly because they are already there. Like I said, laptops are not like desktops - but most of the format process is the exact same as formatting desktops. The partitions, drivers & Media Direct are the main differences.