Windows 64bit edition and Clearing hdd

[the 6th jackson]

As of now I cannot log into my computer

Refer to this thread:
http://forum.pcmech.com/showthread.php?t=134102

I was wondering is it possible to completely clear off my entire hard drive OS and all including all the data without my Windows XP cd? If so I would apreciate an explanation greatly.

I was also wondering about the Windows XP 64-bit edition. I am about to build a new computer and was most likely going to go with a AMD 64 bit processor. Would I have to use the 64 bit edition of windows. Does the 64bit edition work on a 32 bit p4 also? Can you use a 32 bit OS on a 64 bit machine. Would there be any noticable differences. What are the actuall perks of the 32 bit OS compared to the 63 bit OS.

Any clarification in this area is welcomed.

Thanks,
Chase B.

[macko72]

Repair install : http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm

Boot without CD : http://support.microsoft.com/?kbid=310994

You can't install XP 64 bits on 32 bit P4, however you can install 32 bits OS on 64 bits Processor!!!

Way XP 64 : http://www.microsoft.com/windowsxp/6...tion/top5.mspx
http://support.microsoft.com/default...;EN-US;q294418

[the 6th jackson]

"You must use the Windows XP CD-ROM to finish the Setup process."

The link you provided that says "without CD" has this quote in it. I do not have the XP disc with me, is it necessary to use it in order to completely clean the entire hdd?

Basically where I am at is I want to completely clean the entire hdd so I can sell the machine, But i dont have the windows XP pro dsic. I could go and buy a 32bit windows XP pro OS to clean it but I am about to build a new machine that will take advantage of the 64bit Windows XP pro OS. So If I was forced to buy the 32 and then the 64 that would be a waste of money. Now that I have properly explained myself all help is greatly apreciated.

[GaryRouth]

Hi #6

You can completely erase the hard drive by using a free utility from the hard drive manufacturer's site. Most hard drive manufacturer's diagnostics utilities include the option to "zero write" the drive [which does exactly what it says, it makes the entire drive entirely blank - as when it came from the factory]. If your drive is a Western Digital, use their DataLifeGuard; if a Maxtor, use Powermax; if a SeaGate, use SeaTools or DiscWizard, etc.... The diagnostics utilities are usually self-extracting executables that will create a bootable floppy diskette. You'll start the computer whose drive you wish to erase by booting with that floppy (you may need to set the floppy as the "1st Boot Device" in your Bios Setup screens first). The diagnostics usually start a version of either DOS or Linux & run from there.

Best of luck
. . . Gary

[the 6th jackson]

You my friend have saved me much trouble.

Thanks,
Chase B.