How do I do a full system re install

margaretmarch · 07 Apr 2014

My PC is being given away and I want to wipe it clean of all trace of me (user name etc).

I tried to delete my user name using instructions given elsewhere on this site and I must have done something wrong as it hasn't fully worked and is now causing problems eg trying to do an image for backup won't complete as it is looking for the deleted user files.

I can't do system restore as the restore point I created has disappeared from the list!!

I have tried getting support from the supplier - Mesh Computers but the line is continually engaged and they have not replied to my email request for help.

I have a recovery partition on the HDD and a Backup DVD that I created when I first got the PC in 2010. This DVD does not have the system on it but I presume it will allow me to access the recovery partition?

Can anyone ell me how to sort this out please?

Ztruker · 07 Apr 2014

Is the computer a big box system (Dell, HP, etc.) or a custom built system.
If big box, what is the make and full model number?
If custom, what it the model number of the motherboard?

Is there a Users Guide or Users Manual on the computer? If so, it should tell you how to start the recovery process. Usually you can get to it from a selection off the Start menu or by pressing a Fn key during boot.

Edit: I see Mesh is the manufacturer. Need the full model number please.

Layback Bear · 07 Apr 2014

More options.
Take a read through these.

By Brink:
Clean Install Windows 7

By Gregrocker:
Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7

gregrocker · 07 Apr 2014

See if there is a key given on the first boot screen to do Factory Recovery, or boot into F8 System Recovery Options to see the Repair My Computer link has a Factory Recovery choice to select.

If not try booting the REcovery disks starting with Disk1. What happens? These disks may autostart or you'll need to tap the key given for Boot Menu on first screen, or follow How to Boot A Computer from CD or DVD - YouTube

If Recovery won't run to restore to Factory condition then follow the steps to get a perfect Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7 which provides everything needed in the link. You might print it out to give to the new owner so they know they have the best install of Win7 possible, and can read about the tools and methods which will keep it that way.

margaretmarch · 07 Apr 2014

Thanks for your replies.
The system I have is (I quote from delivery note)
Mesh Matrix 250M
1GB ATI Radeon HD3000 Integrated graphics - Full HD support (M4A78LT-M LE)
2GB DDR3 1333MHz Memory
500GB Serial ATA Hard Drive with 16MB buffer
Akasa AK-866 - AMD Sempron/Athlon Processor - up to 65W
ASUS M4A78LT-m LE Mainboard (DDR3)
Windows 7 Home Premium COA ORY OEI PC (GFC-01051)

I have a DVD that came with it which is labelled "M4A78LT-M LE AMD 760G/SB710 Chipset Support DVD Rev.646.02 Windows 7 ready. On it there is a note saying it runs auotmatically otherwise run ASSETUP.exe from the Bin folder.

As you might have gathered by now I am a novice at this so not sure what exactly you need to know to advise me correctly.

Sorry if I have not given the vital bit of information.

The DVD I made and called Backup has the following files on it:-
Apps (folder)
Config (folder)
Autorun - app
autorun - set up information
installer
logo1
logo2
record (app) I get a warning from AVg antivirus saying this has a trojan horse Generic2_c.CBSJ ????

Would this DVD be the one to use to activate the recovery partition?

Margaret

gregrocker · 07 Apr 2014

Did you try rebooting to look for what is written on the first boot screen to run Factory REcovery? Try tapping the F11 key or holding Control and tapping F11. It may take several attempts. There may be another key listed for your model.

If not, Put the DVD in the drive and start to Windows. Install and run Malwarebytes
to Full scan the DVD. If it finds anything follow the prompts to clean it up. Then scan again to be sure.

Next reboot the PC and tap the key given on first screen for boot menu. When you get the menu, figure out which is the DVD drive and select it. What happens? If it offers to Recover to Factory condition, choose a complete erase and restore to factory.

If you can't manually select the BIOS Boot menu to boot DVD, try this: How to Boot A Computer from CD or DVD - YouTube

If you are trying to avoid doing the vastly superior Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7 then there is one other thing we can try if the Recovery partition is still intact on the hard drive. It is shown here: Boot Recovery Partition using EasyBCD. If you want I can connect via TeamViewer to install EasyBCD and configure this. Simply install TeamViewer at defaults with no password and email back to me the listed ID and password it gives when it starts.

margaretmarch · 07 Apr 2014

Thanks Gregrocker. I will try what you suggest and if I can't get sorted may take you up on your offer for a connect up to resolve.
I am away for a few days now but will get back as soon as I've had chance to follow your instructions.
Thanks for your support.
Margaret

Ztruker · 07 Apr 2014

What I found via Google indicates you need to press F10 during boot to get to the recovery menu.