Swtich from XP 32 bit to XP 64bit

[markf]

I have a Dell XPS with Win XP PRo 32 bit, 2 Gig RAM, Quad core 6600 processor

I got WinXP Pro 64bit, new SATA hard drive, 4 each 2 Gig RAM. I installed the drive and the RAM. Started up my existing 32 WinXP. The RAM is recognized. The new (second) hard drive is not seen in My Computer but it is seen by the Device Manager and when I look at it's properties the Device Manager says it's working properly.

My plan was to load the 64 bit onto the new drive. Then when I start the computer I would have an option to start from the new drive or from the old 32 bit drive. This way I could avoid loosing my currently working system while I get the new 64 bit running.

I insert the Windows 64 bit disc into the dvd drive and start the computer. I access the boot menu by pressing f12. I choose to boot from CD/dvd device. It goes through a loading of devices type process and then.... "A problem has been detected and windows has been shut down to prevent damage .... Remove any newly installed hard drives or hard drive controllers. Check your hard drive to make sure it's properly configured and terminated......"

I'm looking for trouble shooting advice. Is there some process to make sure the new drive is "properly configured and terminated"? Also, should I be able to see the drive in My Computer as well as in the Device Manager?

Any help with this will be greatly appreciated!

[Panama Red]

You have to use Disk Management to format the new drive before it will show up in My Computer. Since you aren't trying to create a traditional dual boot using one hdd, I'd recommend removing the 32 bit hdd and load the 64. Get the 64 all configured and then reinstall the other drive.

[glc]

Have you verified that XP 64 drivers are available for all your hardware?

[markf]

Originally Posted by glc Have you verified that XP 64 drivers are available for all your hardware?

I have verified that the drivers are available for most of what I have.

I'm using the second hard drive strategy to avoid contaminating or disabling my existing system which I need to use for work every day. I use 3D Studio Max, and Vray ( high end 3D graphics software) which run better in 64 bit. So I'm trying to upgrade to take advantage of that.

I'd just like to get windows XP 64 bit installed on the new drive and then work on getting the drivers etc. At this point I can't get past the blue error screen I mention above.

I'm a bit reluctant to remove the primary drive. That seems to go against my hope of keping my system as id running while getting XP 64bit installed on the second drive.

Thanks for your replies and any other advice is most appreciated!