how do I configure my pc to boot from cd please?

bluesru5

Don't format and re-install till you've tried all options or you may lose any work or data on your hard drive, if you let XP run full installation and format your drive you definately will. If you have a manual for your m'board it should tell you how to get into the bios usually delete key but sometimes space bar, and which option you need to change the boot sequence.
Failing that open the pc up and see what make m'board you have, (most manufacturers use the same bios so if you dont know the particular model it may not be crucial). then check out their website, usually under the 'support' heading, where you may be ably to download a manual or find the answer in FAQ's

On my PC with award bios its under the 'Advanced Bios Features' heading when I've pressed del key on startup.

Donnie

Which version of XP are you attempting to install?

There are two flavours;

1. Windows XP Home Edition Utility: Setup Disks for Floppy Boot Install
2. Windows XP Home Edition with Service Pack 1 Utility: Setup Disks for Floppy Boot Install

Possibly more importantly, tell me more about the XP CD. It could be corrupted.

bluedog

bluesru5 - I've forgotten to bring over details of my motherboard ... again .. though I do have it at home and will remember it next time! We have a miniscule hard drive and there was nothing that is important to worry about except for perhaps some drivers for the sound card etc. I backed up as much as I could beforehand so I should have all the important stuff now it's formatted. Thanks though.

Donnie - The XP disc I have is an HP OEM. My BIL gave it to me when he made the PC. I've assumed it was the one he used to get it going in the first place . I've asked him and he said he can't remember ...! (I could get updates and it was verified with microsoft with it's COA for that purpose.) On the disc it says;

Operating System CD. Microsoft Windows XP home SP2. Only for use with Restore CD. For distribution only with a new HP or Compaq pc. There is a number on it too which is 361938-001. I do have the HP Restore Plus CD too. The number on it is 360180-B23 and a ref code of HPdc7100 version 2.2 and that it requires the HP operating system cd.

I'm not sure if this is any use though and what you are asking as I can see anything either on the disc or in the manuals that say about booting options. If I need to get a new OS disc then that's ok ... still cheaper than a new pc at the moment!