XP Pro reinstall and activation

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Assembled my first computer and installed XP Pro from OEM CD. Registered XP Pro online and updated system and installed service pack 1. Made many mistakes with install of software for Sound, Video, Dvd-burner (but I did learn from my mistakes and having fun). I would like to start over. I read other postings, went to many sites listed to answer similar question. Still, I am confused about implementing what I read. First, if I boot from XP CD and touch no keys will I come to a format screen or do I have to press an F# key? If yes which key? Second, when given format options can you be specfic-(prior postings mentioned partions)- what will it say and what do I pick. Third, my hard drive should now be formated-does that mean completely blank and I can press F6 during install to load Intel Raid drive before XP Installs like I first did, or will process be different because some operating files not removed during format? Fourth, I have OEM CD and label with key, do I use same key? Finally, when asked to register and activate will there be any problems or just go ahead and activate as before online. Sorry for these multiple questions and thanks for your recent help, it is appreciated!!!
 
Be sure you turn the firewall ON when you create your
Internet connection or do so before actually connecting.

Every 120 days MS purges the activation files, so as long as
you are past the 120 days, activate normally. You always
use the same key.

You boot the CD and if you don't press a key, it will go on
to the hard drive.

see
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;en-us;316941

see http://www.aumha.org/index.php


--
The people think the Constitution protects their rights;
But government sees it as an obstacle to be overcome.


message
| Assembled my first computer and installed XP Pro from OEM
CD. Registered XP Pro online and updated system and
installed service pack 1. Made many mistakes with install
of software for Sound, Video, Dvd-burner (but I did learn
from my mistakes and having fun). I would like to start
over. I read other postings, went to many sites listed to
answer similar question. Still, I am confused about
implementing what I read. First, if I boot from XP CD and
touch no keys will I come to a format screen or do I have to
press an F# key? If yes which key? Second, when given format
options can you be specfic-(prior postings mentioned
partions)- what will it say and what do I pick. Third, my
hard drive should now be formated-does that mean completely
blank and I can press F6 during install to load Intel Raid
drive before XP Installs like I first did, or will process
be different because some operating files not removed during
format? Fourth, I have OEM CD and label with key, do I use
same key? Finally, when asked to register and activate will
there be any problems or just go ahead and activate as
before online. Sorry for these multiple questions and thanks
for your recent help, it is appreciated!!!
 
Thanks for info. I activated my XP 5 days ago. What do you think I should do? I do not want to wait 120 days but I will if you suggest it. Thanks again.
 
The only time you would need to press an f# is if you are using a SATA drive. and that is another story in itself. Otherwise just boot off the CD and reinstall Windows after formatting the drive
 
Just my luck, yes it is Western Digital SATA drive. Went to WD website looking for format software. WD lists Windows XP CD has tools to format drive. I guess my real question is "Since I know nothing can I make a serious mess by attempting a reformat of the SATA drive and reinstalling XP?" I do not know the answers to simple questions like "will my bios update be lost if I reinstall XP?" Should I keep going and continue or throw in the towel and bring it to the computer store? Thanks again!!
 
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