Member Avatar for chrisdavid

Can anybody help,

I need to know how to completly re start my computer. I know i will lose all data on it but it mainly used for music and I can always burn my collection back on their.

I have tried safe mode and all that but nothing happens,

i ahve been told fn key and f11 does this .... does anybody know !

cheers.

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  • Latest Post Latest Post by sittas87

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Quick, practical checklist that builds on the replies from and — things that weren't covered in detail but will save time and trouble when you wipe an Inspiron 1501.

First, secure files and keys. If Windows will not boot, use a Linux live USB (created on another PC) to mount the laptop drive and copy the Music folder and any Documents to an external drive. If that is not an option, remove the hard drive and copy its contents on a different computer with a SATA-to-USB adapter. Locate the Windows product key on the COA sticker on the bottom of the laptop and note the Dell service tag; both are useful after a reinstall. Deauthorize any licensed apps (iTunes, Adobe, etc.) if possible before wiping.

Second, check for an existing Dell recovery solution before you erase anything. If a factory-image or recovery-creation tool is present in the installed system, use it to make recovery discs or USB media first. If no local option exists and you lack install media, contact Dell Support with the service tag to ask about recovery-media options.

Third, once media is ready, prepare drivers and post-install essentials. Download the network (Ethernet/Wi-Fi) and chipset drivers for the Inspiron 1501 and copy them to a USB stick so you can get online immediately after reinstall. After the OS is back, install drivers in this order: chipset, network, video, audio, then other peripherals. Finish with Windows Update and antivirus, then restore your music from the backup.

Caution: double-check you have all backups and keys before proceeding. If unsure at any step, a local technician can make backups and create the correct recovery media.

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Member Avatar for John A

You need to boot off of your Windows installation CD.

Member Avatar for sittas87

Hi Chris
Install XP:
Insert a Windows XP BOOT disk (Most of the disks are BOOT disks) in to you're CD/DVD drive, go into you're BIOS and make you're CDROM you're first BOOT. When windows starts up it will ask you something like this
"Press any key to BOOT from disk...."
do accordingly. from there follow the straightforward prompts

Whats your initial problem.

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