XP partition/format problem

[milgo]

I have a 40 gb hd with 2 partitions C:\ & D:\ XP is on C:\ right now. I want to reinstall XP and remove the partition D:\ so that it is 1drive. But i can't do it. Everytime i try to do a clean install it will let me delete partition D:\ but not partition C:\ when i install XP on C:\ i end up with XP on C;\ and a big unallocated space at the end I just want one big drive again. Please help

[novajoe]

put xp cd in cdrom drive, then make CD-ROM the primary boot drive (do this in bios). restart, will boot from xp cd into a blue windows setup screen, select both partitions and press the delete key (i think its d, but it'll say at the bottom of screen), this will remove all data on both partitions and then install fresh copy on the 'big drive'.

this sud work cos ive done it loads of times O_o.

hope that helps

[milgo]

I've tried that but i does not let me delete the partition that currently has XP on it, i get the message: Window cannot delete partitin C:\ as it contains windows files. something along those lines

[0iD]

If you cant delete it, format it & then try again. Should do the job.

[directhex]

remember to BOOT the windows cd, not run the installer from windows.

[DaKid]

I've done this lots of times as well. You get a warning about deleting a main partition, but I've never had it refused because of windows files, be it XP home or XP pro ... you're definitely booting from the CD-ROM and then selecting new installation and delete partition on each of them?

[milgo]

Thanks very much for your help, i ended up using Maxtor's MAX BLAST 3 http://www.maxtor.com/en/support/dow.../maxblast3.htm to completly format the drive. It was very easy.