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    Install XP from external disc drive

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by paradox7212, Nov 4, 2007.

  1. paradox7212

    paradox7212 Notebook Enthusiast

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    Hello, i wanna ask whether it is possible to install windows using an external cd drive as the build in one to my laptop is already damaged ?..the reason is that i am worried that if i formated the c:/ drive , the computer can no longer detect the drive and my laptop will be useless...
     
    paradox7212, Nov 4, 2007
    #1
  2. ZaZ

    ZaZ Super Model Super Moderator

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    I have done that myself on a several machines though you may wish to check with the manufacturer just make sure everything is kosher.
     
    ZaZ, Nov 4, 2007
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  3. unid3ntifi3d

    unid3ntifi3d Notebook Consultant

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    I, too, have successfully installed XP using an external disc drive. Like ZaZ wrote, I agree to checking with the manufacturer to be 100% sure that the installation goes without problems.
     
    unid3ntifi3d, Nov 4, 2007
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  4. jketzetera

    jketzetera Notebook Evangelist

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    As long as you can boot the Windows XP disc from the external optical drive, you should be fine. However, using an external optical drive for booting the Windows XP disc might requrie you to to change the boot order in the BIOS, so that the external optical drive (most likely a USB CD) boots before the the laptop hard drive.

    However, if you have manufacturer customized recovery discs (instead of a regular Windows XP Installation disc) it might be a different story.
     
    jketzetera, Nov 4, 2007
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  5. ZaZ

    ZaZ Super Model Super Moderator

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    I have on occasion seen it not work though it has been a few years.
     
    ZaZ, Nov 4, 2007
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  6. paradox7212

    paradox7212 Notebook Enthusiast

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    Thanks guys
     
    paradox7212, Nov 4, 2007
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