Can't format partition for install

[Gonz]

Hey all,

I'm trying to install windows 7 64bit OEM but in the custom install options i can't format the partition i want to install to. The partitions were created under XP on a secondary drive, which will now be the primary drive, XP will be wiped later and that drive i have actually disconnected for the time being. The only options i can access are "refresh" and "load driver".

I'm not too sure whether i need an updated sata driver controller (asus M2N AM2 mobo - nforce controller) or i need to make the partition active using something like the diskpart utility.
I've looked at the asus website and there are no updated sata drivers for windows 7 or even vista 64bit, only a beta raid driver.

Or is it the partitions themselves since they were created under XP (although i don't think its this)

I've found some posts on here with similair sounding problems but hoping someone with a bit more knowledge can tell me which is most likely to be the cause and save me a bit of time.

Thanks in advance
Gonz

 

[BCXtreme]

Welcome to the Seven Forums!

Are you running the installer from within Windows, or are you booting directly from the disc? If the former, try the latter.

 

[Dinesh]

Solved Hard Drive - Unable to Select or Delete during Installation - Vista Forums

 

[Gonz]

Thanks BCX and cheers for the replys guys

I'm booting from the disc. I had XP installed on another drive but am doing a clean install onto different drive.

Because the target drive has partitions and data on it i don't really want to wipe it all but if you think its the way forwards i'll just have to borrow an empty drive off a mate to temporarily store the data while i wipe it. You think its likely to resolve it?

How does this differ from a standard format, i.e. if i did it from within XP or normal formt from command prompt?

 

[gregrocker]

Run the Free Download PC Upgrade Advisor Windows 7 Hardware Programs Issues from XP first to check for any hardware issues with Win7.

Make sure you have the latest BIOS version update from Support Downloads webpage for your computer or mobo. If not, install from XP.

Try clearing the CMOS: Clear CMOS - 3 Ways to Clear the CMOS - Reset BIOS

Make sure the HD registers in BIOS, then check the SATA controller setting: first set to AHCI (XP may not start at this point, remove it to try install), then IDE if necessary.

Now try to install by booting the Win7 DVD, select Custom>Drive Options to see if the HD shows up, if so delete, create New and then format Win7 partition (making sure you select the correct one to protect your data) because the Win7 partition table is slightly different.

If the HD continues to not show up, back up your files externally first, unplug all but Win7 target HD, boot the Win7 DVD to wipe the HD: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/91339-ssd-hdd-optimize-windows-reinstallation.html

Now try the install again. If all fails, report back each step tried.