Dual boot system: W7x64 and XPx32

[Xeno Morph]

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

 

[theog]

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.
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/66010-sata-drivers-load-windows-xp-setup-dual-boot.html
OR
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/72185-sata-drivers-slipstream-into-windows-xp-cd.html

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

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/8057-dual-boot-installation-windows-7-xp.html?ltr=D

A bit more reading.
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/2676-bcdedit-how-use.html?ltr=B
System Restore Points - Stop XP Dual Boot Delete - Vista Forums

Have you looked at using XP Mode, Virtual Player, VMWare, Virtual Box.
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/8247-windows-xp-mode-install-setup.html?ltr=W

 

[gregrocker]

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.

 

[Xeno Morph]

@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?:huh: Now why didn't I think of that? I guess that about covers it.

Thanks again.

Baron