I'm currently am running Win 7 x64 and I want to add another hd and install WXP x32. Will I loose the ability to boot into W7 if I install XP? It's just that I think I recall having had some problems with the MBR when I did this a few years back. Can I get some feedback? Is there a way to do this without having to reinstall W7? Thanks for any input or advice.
Baron
First check for all the Win XP drivers for your hardware.
HP Support & Drivers | United States
If your Win XP CD, does not support your Sata Controller, you will need to load drivers to uses at F6.
Load Sata Controller drivers with a floppy disk is the best way.
SATA Drivers - Load in Windows XP Setup on Dual Boot
OR
SATA Drivers - Slipstream into Windows XP CD
You can download your F6 Sata Controller drivers from here:
NOTE: Please read this thread fully.
General XP Downgrade Guide for HP Laptops - HP Support Forum
Dual Boot Installation with Windows 7 and XP
A bit more reading.
BCDEDIT - How to Use
System Restore Points - Stop XP Dual Boot Delete - Vista Forums
Have you looked at using XP Mode, Virtual Player, VMWare, Virtual Box.
Windows XP Mode - Install and Setup
Unplug the Win7 HD before booted XP install to it's HD. This prevents it from derailing the Win7 boot requiring major repairs to get 7 started and add XP.
If XP won't install you'll need to slipstream the SATA drivers in per THeog's tutorial above.
Once XP is installed, plug back in Win7 HD, set it first to boot in BIOS setup, trigger XP HD when needed by tapping the HP ESC or F9 key at boot to choose XP HD.
If this method is too clumsy, install to Win7 EasyBCD (click Download - no Name or Email required) to add XP on Add OS Entry tab, reboot to Dual Boot menu.
@Theog, Thanks for all the links.
@gregrocker,Thanks for your input. Ok, I have the XP Spk 3 disc with SATA drivers already slipstreamed, so I'm good to go there. Unplugging the Win7 hd?Now why didn't I think of that?
I guess that about covers it.
Thanks again.
Baron
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