@Ztruker - thank you for the input and suggestion/link on the USB (will try that and that I guess will eliminate if it is a drive issue). Had to use a recovery disk a couple times before the drive finally went and of course, it did work then - so never gave it a thought it would not work now.
@Ex_Brit - Thank you for all your input and suggestions. Will try again tomorrow - checking the BIOS as you suggested to be certain it is correct.
Will update our progress. Thank you both again for your assistance.
Well the good news is we were able to load Vista via the bootable flash drive method (thank you @Ztruker for the suggestion and thank you @Ex_Brit for the file).
So I guess there was a problem with the cd/dvd drive which brings me to the next issue. I cannot load the drivers from the cd and cannot get on-line because drivers are not installed for the ethernet.
Not sure how to proceed without any connection (and no cd/dvd drive). In control panel, I can see the graphics card and all the drivers need installing.
Likely as the thumb drive is working. I have the original Drivers and Utilities DVD - is it possible to copy from that to the thumb drive (in another computer)? If I put this DVD in a different computer, will it just start running and try to install on the other computer?
It will try to run but should ask you whether or not to continue, just say no. You should hopefully be able to transfer them over, but you could probably also get them from the computer maker's website?
We will attempt the files and further explore the Dell site (even with our system config, it was really difficult getting around (thought they would have most in one place based on the service tag). ugh.... : - )
Tedious but definitely on our way! Got the drivers from the disc onto the flash and loaded onto the Vista. Updating Windows etc....
Thanks SO much for your support...I truly appreciate it!
