How do i format system drive

How do i format system drive, from windows?

can i use command prompt?

You want to format the drive that your operating system lives on? While you are running the operating system?

You don't. If you did, it won't boot into Windows anymore.

i need to format to install from second partition of laptop

Install what from the second partition of the laptop? Please explain what you are trying to do.

can i stick a dos exe on the second partition to format the system disk?

i can call the windows 7 setup from the second partition now, but i need a clean format first

No, you can't. If you are running the OS, you cannot format the system partition. Windows won't let you.

Why not boot from the DVD installation disc?

because i am hoping installing from hdd would be faster

ollie007 said:

because i am hoping installing from hdd would be faster

Just install from the DVD.