Vista will not boot

[ilikefree]

Boot and run Linux from a USB flash memory stick | USB Pen Drive Linux

Use Ubuntu Live CD to Backup Files from Your Dead Windows Computer - How-To Geek

These may help

 

[richc46]

Ilike beat me, but that would have been my suggestion. Good way to boot and save your stuff, too.

 

[ilikefree]

And you can use any live cd from this list to install on the flash drive.

The LiveCD List

 

[YoVincenzo]

I'm getting pressured to just get the computer running, so I'm going to Bestbuy to pick up a new hard drive - only $45 for 320 GB. I'll deal with any unbacked up data by reinstalling the drive later, or maybe buy an enclosure.

How do I go about partitioning and formatting the new drive once I've installed it?
I'm familiar with IDE drive partitioning and formatting, never did SATA.
Is it any different?
Can I do that with either the Windows 7 install disk or the Windows Vista repair disk?
I do also have a Partition Wizard boot disk.

Thanks

 

[richc46]

Follow this tutorial, everything is done from the DVD
http://www.vistax64.com/tutorials/68767-clean-install-upgrade-vista.html?ltr=C\
Step 12 gives you the partition option

This may also give you some pointers
Applies to Vista, too
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/91339-ssd-hdd-optimize-windows-reinstallation.html

 

[YoVincenzo]

OK I've got it up and running with the new hard drive. But there are some new problems.

They are unrelated to this topic so I created a new thread.

Thanks to all for all the help.

 

[richc46]

Glad that I was able to help with some of the problems, good luck