Windows 7: Cannot install Windows 7 on Samsung P210

Redownload the ISO & burn at a slow speed.
or
Use the MS tool in this tutorial to make a USB installer.
USB Windows 7 Installation Key Drive - Create

Clean Install with a Upgrade Windows 7 Version

Run the Windows 7 Upgrade advisor in XP: Free Download PC Upgrade Advisor Windows 7 Hardware Programs Issues

Check for latest BIOS version update to install from XP. If no later BIOS version, clear the CMOS: Clear CMOS - 3 Ways to Clear the CMOS - Reset BIOS

Enter BIOS setup to check SATA controller setting. Try AHCI first, then IDE mode if necessary.

Test your RAM with memtest86 for 5-6 passes, remove all but 2gb of RAM to try install, swap, reseat RAM sticks.

Test your HD using maker's full diag/repair CD scan: Upgrade the Windows 7 RC to any retail version « Icrontic Tech

Let's say it worked from a USB stick. What would the explanation of the original problem be in that case?

The disk I've been using was made at the factory and has all the crazy holograms on it. I've not been using a disk that I myself created. Trying to install Windows Vista Business 32-bit right now.

DVD media or reader.

Was not suggested because you have working DVD that installed before.

If Vista installs you can try running the DVD from desktop, or extracting files to desktop to run Setup as Adminstrator.

Be sure to choose Custom install to overwrite Vista partition, unless you want a dual boot configured.

If fail, then use Vista to update BIOS version, complete troubleshooting steps previously given.

A CD/DVD driver should cleaned after 10 hours of uses.

laser head? q tip?

I have been installing drivers all day. all I can see are drivers

It did install vista business, however it won't help me out with installing windows 7 - says it's an incompatible version and to boot the disk etc. I've also tried updating the bios using the samsung exe file, but that will only go so far too. It keeps saying 'loading driver failed. Restart system'

Figured it out. Helpful of Windows 7 not to tell me that it was refusing to boot because the AC adaptor wasn't plugged in (this hasn't been a requirement of any previous version)!

But are they clean drivers?

I'm making a note to add "Plug in your computer" to troubleshooting steps.