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Do I need to install windows xp before i try to configure maxtor hard drive?

I have been using the Maxtor manual, but nothing on my BIOS screen matches what the manual says to look for. When I exit BIOS it asks if I want to run from floppy or cd/ dvd? By then though, my keyboard won't work. I tried to run their set up disk Maxblast but no go. I then entered my windows xp disk and it started set up. But then it had to stop, because i didn't read the packaging and it was a windows upgrade and needs the full version of windows xp to setup. Now I can't find any stores with windows xp they all have vista. Did I ruin my new hard drive? Or if I get a full version will Windows finish installing and then I can configure. I am new at this but installing the hard drive was fairly simple, especially since i was replacing the old one. Thanks for your help.

Public Comments

1. I am assuming you have followed the Maxtor's instructions correctly. If your BIOS does not report that a hard drive is present, then the most likely fault is the hard disk controller interface (on the motherboard). BIOS should have the ability to auto detect the drive. You should be able to confirm that the dive cylinders/sectors/heads match in the BIOS to the actual drive. If the drive is not in the BIOS, then no Windows (or alternative operating system) CD is going to fix this. Check the drive jumpers are set properly, or the right cable and motherboard connector is used (system drives are on the primary controller and need to be master drives). Check the drive works on another computer - some equipment can be dead on arrival.