Can't get rid of LILO or GRUB bootloaders to reinstall Windows on Laptop

CorpChAoS · 10-25-2003, 08:30 PM

I am using an NEC VERSA 6030H. This model of computer was designed for the 3.5 floppy and the CD-ROM to be interchangeable. Unfortunately the 3.5 died and I am left with the CD-ROM only. This computer runs Mandrake 8.1 VERY slowly, I need to put windows back on, but I cannot find any method of doing it. The Windows CD's do not boot, and I have no disk drive to put a windows startup disk in.
Is there any way I can get any version of Windows back on this box?

Thank You,
CorpChAoS

lord_clarence · 10-25-2003, 09:08 PM

*edit*

disregard my post, the solution I posted requires taht the windows cd can boot.

2damncommon · 10-25-2003, 09:42 PM

If you have access to a CD burner...
Download a bootdisk from www.bootdisk.com (or make an image file of one you already have) and burn a bootable CD with the image.
Use the bootable CD to start the Windows installation.

EDIT: I ment to mention that Vector Linux might run faster for you if you have an older laptop.

triki · 11-24-2003, 02:32 PM

Boot of a boot CD for starters.
make sure FDISK is on the CD
and do a FDISK /mbr

what this will do is clear any records in the Master Boot List eg. LILO or GRUB

after doing so, you will be able to reinstall your windows XP, good luck and
May God have mercy on your $oul.

triki

Tinkster · 11-24-2003, 02:50 PM

Grab a copy of Win98... it's not much
chubbier than Win95, and comes with
a bootable CD ;)

Alternatively, try a streamlined distro,
like Slackware, or the Slack-based
vector-linux. Instead of KDE or gnome,
use ICEwm or fluxbox, and you should
live happily ever after ....

The box comes with a pentium 1XX
and 32MB of RAM, right?

Cheers,
Tink

LOUDSilence · 11-25-2003, 01:23 AM

While your in fdisk you can fix your partitions
But I agree with the other guys that answered. I mean you are prob running more then you need to do what you need. Do you have all the fancy graphic animations on you desktop? run a light weight window manager.