August 19, 2008

Installing XP from a USB drive

I searched this on Google and found a few guides which listed 15 steps in 3 parts. How about we make it less daunting?

Step 1. CHECKLIST - Assuming you already have a PC here is what you need: A windows XP Install CD and a 1GB USB drive

Step 2. DOWNLOAD - this and unzip it.

Step 3. FORMAT - Run usb_prep8.cmd from the usb_prep8 folder. Use default options to format your USB drive. Keep the DOS box open. Its a script which runs step 5.

Step 4. INITIALIZE - the boot sector by running "bootsect.exe /nt52 R:" from the bootsect folder. Replace R: with the drive letter of your USB disk.

Step 5. SETUP - Go back to the DOS box. There is a menu here. Set up items 1-3. Then run 4.

Step 6. SELECT - YES YES YES! You're done, your USB disk is ready. Plug it into your PC and install XP.