Cannot install Windows to this hard disk?

I got a Dell Inspiron 6400 with XP and I'm trying to do a clean install of Windows 7 but this message shows up, any ideas how I can get passed this?

try to change the SATA IDE/ACHI type in BIOS

If you're not sure where is it, try upload a photo of screenshot of your Dell BIOS setup screen.

We'll help you to find it.

Before wiping the HD, make sure you have the latest BIOS version from Dell Support Downloads webpage for your model.

Next follow mjb's suggestion to set SATA controller in BIOS setup to AHCI first, then IDE later if install fails.

Next use baarod's approach wipe the HD: SSD / HDD : Optimize for Windows Reinstallation

gregrocker said:

Before wiping the HD, make sure you have the latest BIOS version from Dell Support Downloads webpage for your model.

Next follow mjb's suggestion to set SATA controller in BIOS setup to AHCI first, then IDE later if install fails.

Next use baarod's approach wipe the HD: SSD / HDD : Optimize for Windows Reinstallation

yeah I think I do need to update bios, I tried to do an upgrade instead of a clean install and I got an error saying so but when I try to update the BIOS I get an error message saying that I need both battery and ac adapter plugged in but my battery is dead, is there a way to force this BIOS update without the use of a battery?

Put the battery in the laptop, then plug it in.

The Upgrade advisor advised you that you need a BIOS update to run Win7. No mystery here.

I hope you still have your OS to run the BIOS update. Follow the ReadMe instructions closely as you don't want to mess this up.

I know but the battery is dead, as in it won't charge so I can't just put the battery, tried it anyways and that message comes up, guess I have to find a way to force it to update. I guess that's a question for another forum for now.

You need to flash in pure dos with the /forceit switch. Use a bootable usb thumb drive, place the bios update file at the root of the drive, then boot from the thumb. At the prompt, type in the name of the bios update .exe file followed by "/forceit" without the quotes, hit Enter. Note, there is a space between the e on exe and the /.

Keep the mains connected during this process and if you have a UPS, then stay connected to it.

Bill2 said:

You need to flash in pure dos with the /forceit switch. Use a bootable usb thumb drive, place the bios update file at the root of the drive, then boot from the thumb. At the prompt, type in the name of the bios update .exe file followed by "/forceit" without the quotes, hit Enter. Note, there is a space between the e on exe and the /.

Keep the mains connected during this process and if you have a UPS, then stay connected to it.

How does one create a bootable usb thumb drive? Tried to search it, downloaded so many different programs and just failed miserably.