Regarding all the idea's re XP.

[sludgeguts]

It'd be a lot easier on yourself if you bought a full version. You can buy a moody copy these days for a couple of quid, plenty of free software out there to change the serial number for one which will allow updates (& many copies come with SP2 anyway).

Life's too short to be messing with updates.

[swopmebob]

Actually have full Microsoft Home version Of XP.Could understand if it were not pukka but it is.I bought it myself.But it hasnt got as far to ask for registration number.Going to use second HDD.Wasting too much time,still on learning curve!!!!!!

[swopmebob]

My initial instructions were,open,run system,when loaded,control panel,and uninstal anything,not required,then reformat HDD and clean install XP.but you know kiddywinks,too long for them,tried to take short cuts,well they did,I have their results in front of me.Nuffsed.nuther HDD start up then reformat original HDD and reinstall XP again.

[shelleywelley]

Well if it is a full version I've no idea why its asking you to insert another disc

Make yourself a floppy boot disk (if you google boot disk there are plenty available and only take a few seconds to dl) boot from the floppy when you get the dos prompt try format c: (assuming c is the hard drive) it should wipe the disc so you can do a fresh install

[swopmebob]

Thanks SG for that,much appreciated.

[swopmebob]

Going to put second HDD tomorrow.Have it in the kitchen from out of Dell PC not using it anymore.Thanks Shelly