Delete XP Partition from Within 7.0 Partition?

[Chiz]

I'm currently dual-booting a 7.0 and XP NC20 laptop.

The thing is, 7.0 is more than capable of being my main OS. So much so i've already tried formatting the XP partition. I've managed to delete the viewable folders and extensions but i'm left with what i believe is a recycling bin, or some hidden files as the partition still shows 4gb.

I cannot format this partition due to some 'rights' issue. i've tried the usual, groups / ownership, but this fails.

I understand you can format xp by booting from usb, or cd, but 1. I don't have an XP disk. 2. No USBs large enough and finally 3. No external CD drive.

I guess i'm wondering if anyone knows any third party apps to finally get this partition on the go as i'm desperate to install some linux based OS on the partition.

Cheers

 

[CaptainCrash]

I understand you can format xp by booting from usb, or cd, but 1. I don't have an XP disk. 2. No USBs large enough and finally 3. No external CD drive.

I guess i'm wondering if anyone knows any third party apps to finally get this partition on the go as i'm desperate to install some linux based OS on the partition.

Cheers

I'm not entirely clear about your current limitations - presumably you'll be needing some sort of bootable Linux installation medium anyway, so just use that and choose the current XP partition for Linux during the setup procedure itself (it can be formatted as necessary).

I haven't personally tried dual-booting Linux and Win7, but I assume GRUB will be smart enough to recognise the existing Windows 7 installation and present it as an option in the boot menu (no doubt someone will correct me if that's not the case).

 

[Chiz]

I already have the dual boot option so i'm presuming it'll just be the same.

It completely skipped mind that a linux install would offer some sort of formatting or partitioning during the installation. I was under the impression that to remove the xp partition you'd need to run part of the xp setup itself. Obviously not though?

Just for side info, i'm looking for a light, resource (un) hungry linux os that will conserve my laptop battery, and plus something fun to play around with.