Formatting C:
 

I'm trying to format my HD which has Indego XP as it's OS. It won't let me uninstall the OS, delete the windows folder, or format C: from the DOS window.
Any suggestions?

download a linux disk like umbutu, boot from cd, and use the linux format utility

Thanks Balls, I'm thinking there has to be a way to do it through Windows though, if not I might just run the puter on Linux if I can find compatible software.

you dont actually need to install linux with a linux install disk. you can just load from the disk, use the install utility to format and partition a drive, then quit linux, and insert a windows install disk. It would solve your formatting issue without installing linux.

If you have a 'proper' Windows install disk, as opposed to a shitty disk image CD, then boot from that, and format from the 'select partition to install' screen.

There is not actually a way to do the format whilst Windows is running, because it will not allow for any disk modifications; but on the Windows installation media, it gives you the right tools for the job.

What is the end point of formatting the disk? Reinstalling Windows XP or some other OS? If you post something a little more to the aim what you are trying to achieve, then I would probably be able to say something clearer to help you!

Use this. |thumb

Sweet... Perhaps they should come as standard with every Windows based system/install disk!

You know, unless you have a bunch of Windows programs that you really need to run, Ubuntu or gOS are both very nice. Considering the fact that both are free, they should be referred to as amazing. (I think gOS is just a prettied-up version of Ubuntu.)

I had an old computer I put together and installed Ubuntu. I love it! Hardware is so cheap these days, you can put together a decent Ubuntu based computer for $300-$400 US that will do most anything. Hell, I've probably got enough spare parts to build 2 or 3 of them.

I noticed more printers with compatible drivers now, too. Would be cool if this kicked MS ass.

I'm going to give it a shot. There's only one program I really need to run that might not work, and I can run it on my laptop if I have to.
What the hell, break that Windows addiction ;)

What UW and balls_deep said. If you need a fuller set of diagnostics tools, download Knoppix and run it from CD.

I haven't had a 'Doze run machine in four or five years now (and never ever had a Mac). Gained a lot and lost nothing, IMHO.