Windows 7: Remove XP from a dual boot system

I'm quite comfortable around DOS commands, etc (bought my first IBM pc in '81 and THAT dates me!). What I'm nervous about is the OEM partition itself and what Dell might have done with it. I've run up against these partitions before and they're rarely good news. Do you think there's any risk of wrecking what's been done?

I wouldn't think so as it's not connected to anything now that all the original set-up is completely gone.

Perhaps create an image of the entire HDD and if it goes south, put the image back.

Imaging with free Macrium

Hi Ed -

Please post up a screenshot of the contents of the OEM partition by unhiding Hidden files in Control Panel>Folder Options>View, then in Disk Management give OEM partition a drive letter. Use the Snipping tool to post screenshots of the full maximized contents including any subfolders contents.

If you have Partition Wizard home edition, you can rightlick OEM partition to Explore contents, expand subfolders within the maximized windows to capture a snip.

What was the original preinstalled OS which came with the machine? When was the Recovery partition removed?

Check also if you have the Repair console on the F8 Advanced boot tools menu by tapping the F8 key at bootup. This means the OEM is acting as System Reserved partition. If not, we can help you construct a System Reserved Partition in its place.

I'm going to take a break from this for a bit; I have to get ready for a trip. When I get back I'll look into getting rid of that OEM partition.

Thanks to both of you for all your help. Now I have space for even more photographs -- which was the point of all this!

Cheers,
Ed

Well done and be sure to post back here when you get back.