Windows 7 installation copying files goes to 100% instantly,then fails

The notorious (or at least I think it is,) "Copying-files-phase-instantly-cuts-to-100%-then-gets-stuck-at-expanding-files-0%-and-fails-after-some-time" bug.

I'm almost to the point of challenging my computer fist to a fist-fight. icnic:

The story: I ordered my Gateway M285-E Monday, and I just got it today. I was so happy to see that it already had Windows XP Tablet Edition installed. Of course, I'm one of those "f*** that noise" kind of people. I formatted the hard-drive from the Windows 7 installer, and upon starting the actual installation process, "Copying Files" jumped to 100%, and went directly to Expanding Files...

...which hung at 0%, until it gave me the usual error telling me that the needed installation files couldn't be found / located etc.

So I thought, why not install Windows XP? Didn't work either. The installer wouldn't recognize the hard-drive. Wonderful. So I sat in angst, staring at the beautiful machine that had just ruined my day.

...I installed Ubuntu 10.10; worked fine. Absolutely flawless.

I CANNOT install ANY version of Windows. It just seems impossible.

Windows 7: Failed.
Windows XP: Failed.
Windows ME (I was desperate): Failed.
And after formatting again, Ubuntu 10.10: Worked.

System specs:
Core Duo @1.86ghz
1gb RAM (soon to be 2gb)
60gb HDD
ATi Radeon x1400 graphics

Where did you get Win7? Confirm the download by checking HASH against official HASH.

If you burned the DVD, burn another using ImgBurn at 4x speed.

Make sure you have the latest BIOS version update. If not, restore to XP to update BIOS. Your Manual describes how to run Factory Recovery from boot on page 33: http://support.gateway.com/s/Mobile/Q106/ViperC/8511264.pdf

If so, reset the CMOS: Clear CMOS - 3 Ways to Clear the CMOS - Reset BIOS

There may be a reason why XP was on a modern computer. Did you run the Free Download PC Upgrade Advisor Windows 7 Hardware Programs Issues?

Looking at the Support Downloads webpage for your model gateway it is Vista capable so it should be Win7 capable.

If so, Wipe the HD of all code to try Win7 install: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/91339-ssd-hdd-optimize-windows-reinstallation.html