laptop re format

Rob-D · 18 Dec 2009 at 10:11

Ive been given a Dell precision m60 laptop but dont have any recovery cd`s with it. I want to wipe the hard drive so whats the best way to do this. I could do a fresh install of xp but am i going to loose important drivers which i will need?

Thanks Rob.

Beerbaron · 18 Dec 2009 at 10:12

You can download the drivers from dell

Rob-D · 18 Dec 2009 at 10:42

right, sorry for asking what might seem the obvious. But, download drivers first then onto a usb stick and then put a fresh install of windows on after? What if the usb port doesnt read my memory stick afterwards because it has no driver.

Little_Crow · 18 Dec 2009 at 11:47

I doubt you'll have a problem with using a USB stick on a fresh install, but if you want extra safety then burn all the drivers you need to a CD.

The absolute minimum drivers you need is for the NIC, or Wireless NIC. With that you can get to the internet and get everything else you need.

What are you installing on it, XP, Vista, Windows 7?

In my experience Driver support on installs has got better as Windows has gone on so you may find that you don't need the NIC drivers, but it's always wise to be prepared.
HOWEVER, also in my experience the drivers Microsoft make available may work, but I find they just don't work as well as the drivers from the Manufacturer, so I'd always install Dells if available.

########
I've had a look at Dells driver support for the M60, and it looks like they only go up to Windows XP.
You can try installing Vista or Win7, but if anything doesn't automatically find drivers you may have an uphill struggle to find working drivers.

malcolm · 18 Dec 2009 at 17:32

Rob-D: As you said you'll be installing XP, the USB will only be usable if you load SP2 or 3, if your XP disc is earlier than that you will need all those drivers (and the service pack) on CD's. No real problem apart from that though.