Hello! I'm new to this forum.

K

KeithSteven

New Member
What's up? My name is Keith. And, I am very new to this forum. However, I am having trouble fixing an old Compaq Presario desktop. It was originally manufactured to run Windows XP. The problem first occurred when I was trying to format it through the disks that came with the computer. However, they've been pretty badly scratched. The installation through 10 CD-Rs had a couple of errors, but, I didn't think anything of it at first. Now when it boots it says it is missing NTLDR, or something, and asks me to ctrl+alt+del to reboot. I've tried a few things like running my builder's Windows 7 disk, but that was a 64bit OS, and the processor didn't support it. So, that was a no go. I also tried a few back-up cds I had of XP and 98SE, but I think I burnt them incorrectly, and they wouldn't boot. I'd appreciate any help at all. I'm totally stuck on this one; thanks!
 
You will have to find an OEM XP install cd and reinstall Windows and use the key that is on the side of the case to reactivate. However, it won't reactivate online, you will have to call up Microsoft and have them give you a new activation code.
 
just go to cnet.com and go under the downloads tab, type in the search bar ISO burner and there are a lot of good FREE ISO burners on there. Then just Download Linux Mint and burn it using the ISO burner. To start off with just try the regular Linux mint, you dont need KDE, LXDE or even XFCE. Get the one advertised on the main page. Also remember to only use 32 bit on older machines.

Edit: also it installs the same way as windows in a sense, very easy but if any question just post on here and we will help.
 
If memory serves me right there is one on cnet.com I have used before when I did use Windows and it was Active@iso burner or something like that and it worked really good.
 
Thanks! I'm downloading it as we speak. I'm going to see if I can find a blank CD-R now.
Also, how reliable is the internal ISO burner on Windows 7?
 
I haven't been able to try it yet. I was out of town for a few days. I plan to burn/install it tomorrow, or at least attempt to. I did download the ISO in preparation, though. I grabbed the OEM version, and I am praying the thing works. I'll definitely keep you posted! :)
 
Yeah, I completely love Windows 7. I have it on my desktop, netbook, and laptop. But, this old computer wouldn't take it. I'm screwing around with the OEM Linux Mint release still. Should I have tried the "full-featured" DVD release instead?
 
KeithSteven said:
Yeah, I completely love Windows 7. I have it on my desktop, netbook, and laptop. But, this old computer wouldn't take it. I'm screwing around with the OEM Linux Mint release still. Should I have tried the "full-featured" DVD release instead?
Click to expand...

That's the one i normally use.
 
The OEM one didn't give me any luck. I'm going to try the full-featured one next. I hope this thing gets working soon. . . =\ If anyone has ANY ideas I am totally open to them.
 
@OP --
". . . an old Compaq Presario desktop. It was originally manufactured to run Windows XP."

Hardware issues should be addressed prior to making a distro recommendation, especially relating to the Desktop Environment. What are your specs?

@DMGrier --
". . . you dont need KDE, LXDE or even XFCE."

How do we know this -- did OP post his hardware specs somewhere I neglected to look?

I.E. The PC in question could be an old P4 with 512MB RAM
in which case the DE is of significant importance.
 
Keith,

Appears that you are still having issues getting other operating systems on your older Compaq. You indicated that your original disks were scratched and gave errors. However, if you need to restore back to XP let me know, and I will send you a free copy of the recovery disks. Email me at [email protected] with your address, product number and serial number.

Regards,

Priscilla
HP Social Media Ambassador
 
Can't beat Priscilla's offer, KeithSteven! Better go for it . . . hmmm,
maybe with a new CEO HP is going down a better road. Let's hope so.

Best wishes to all!
 
I'm extremely weary of giving out personal information on an Internet forum. No offense! I love all the help I can get it.

However, I think the system specs are something around 80gb HD, 1.6ghz single core, and possibly 512ram.
 
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