Trouble Re-installing Windows 7

Hi Guys,

Thanks for reading.

I am doing a friend a favour by reinstalling his Windows 7 Premium. x32.

I have done this a fair few times without any problems on lots of different computers. Including my own, several times. There isn't usually an issue. I am somewhat a novice and am looking for some advice.

Firstly, when I originally tried the reinstall the error message ''Windows Setup could not configure Windows on this computer’s hardware''. After a browse it looks like i need to change the BIOS setting to AHCI or IDE?

Firstly, I don't know how to check if i'm running RAID or how to change RAID to AHCI or IDE (Or even if this is the correct procedure)

Secondly, I performed a 'Primary Hard Disk Test' (or something to that effect) in the BIOS settings page and its came back with Hard Disk {303}. This, after a little research suggests the hard drive is corrupt. I don't mind that, at least then I have some closure and can go from there!

Any advice greatly received. (I apologise, I havent got all the specs to hand as I am at work but it's a HP Compaq. I THINK it's a Presario CQ60, 3G, 2.2Mhz)

Thanks,

Sam

Thanks Pauly, you're a legend. I will try that tonight and get back to the forum after. Cheers mate.

After confirming the HD is good using the maker's HD Diagnostic extended CD scan:

Back up your files, unplug all other HD's and peripherals,

Boot into BIOS setup to enable Legacy BIOS if present. Next check BIOS Boot order for an EFI Boot Disk and if present remove it, set DVD drive first to boot, HD second. Then set SATA controller to AHCI. Save changes and Exit.

Then boot into installer DVD or flash stick burned or written using tool and latest ISO for your licensed OS version here.

At first installer screen Press Shift + F10 to open a Command Box, type:

DISKPART
LIST DISK
SELECT DISK 0 (after confirming Windows 7 target HD #)
CLEAN
CREATE PARTITION PRIMARY SIZE=102400 (for 100gb partition, adjust as desired)
FORMAT FS=NTFS LABEL="WINDOWS 7"
ACTIVE
EXIT
EXIT

Next click Install Now, then Custom install to Clean Install Windows 7 to the partition you created. If it fails then report back at which step and the verbatim error message.

In addition read over these steps to understand the tools and methods which work best to get and maintain a perfect Clean Reinstall - Factory OEM Windows 7. The steps are the same for retail.