windows xp install problem

[inquistor_c]

i had to go and buy a new hardisk as my old one completly died when i try and install windows xp on it i get past the first reboot and i just get the black screen with the flashing whit - in the top left corner for ages and nothing happens has this happned to anyone else?

[FastGame]

Make sure the Master/Slave jumper on the new HD is correct and the cable is seated, what brand is it ?

Put the XP CD back in and let it format the drive and try to install again.

[inquistor_c]

its a maxtor 120gb, it was working the last time i had to reformat and reinstall but its not workin this time for some reason

[FastGame]

Download Memtest86+ ISO and burn to a CD, boot to CD and make sure memory is ok (2 passes is fine)

Re-seat the IDE cable on the HD & MB and make sure jumper is set to master.

Download Wipeout un-zip and copy to a Win 98 boot floppy, make sure you write down the ReadMe file so you know (gives instructions) what switch to use. WARNING! if the drive is partitioned with data all will be lost with Wipeout...

If you need a Win 98 boot disk you can get it at http://www.bootdisk.com/

If you need a floppy drive...

After HD is clean use the XP CD to format and try to install again.

[inquistor_c]

nope it didnt work ffs im gona take it down to my uncles frend whos good with computers

[Curio]

It has a problem with the boot files - usually running fixmbr or fixboot and chkdsk on the system drive will fix that. MS call the boot drive the system drive - ...don't ask! I could explain but then there's Google.

[LloydSparkes]

you can also try changing cables, check your bios to make sure its working fine in there, also if its sata get the latest drivers, is your windows disc corrupt.