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Boot problem with XP and 98 with two HDD

Discussion in 'Windows XP' started by Bob M, 2010/09/11.

  1. 2010/09/11
    Bob M

    Bob M Inactive Thread Starter

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    Computer is using Windows XP Home with SP3. Plenty of RAM and 40 gb HDD.
    Added a similar, second HDD to run Windows 98. Bios shows the two drives, calls the second on "F ". F8 plus safe mode lists only the XP in OS choices.
    If I change BIOS to boot on the second HDD, it still is called drive F, not C:
    Is there software available to show OS choices on boot up ?
     
  2. 2010/09/11
    markmadras

    markmadras Banned

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    This will give you control of the boot up:

    http://neosmart.net/thankyou.php?app=EasyBCD

    If I have understood what you have done the problem is likely to be due to you installing an earlier version of windows than the one you already have. Easy BCD may get you out of trouble but I am not sure. The routine for a dual boot would be to install Win98 and then WinXP.
     

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  4. 2010/09/11
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

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  5. 2010/09/11
    markmadras

    markmadras Banned

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    Don't think so.

    This link will tell you all about it, and this is a quote from the guide.

    http://support.microsoft.com/kb/306559


     
    Last edited: 2010/09/11
  6. 2010/09/11
    markmadras

    markmadras Banned

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    Last edited: 2010/09/11
  7. 2010/09/11
    Bob M

    Bob M Inactive Thread Starter

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    I knew that XP goes on last last after earlier versions. These are two separate HDDs each one containing a different OS. It works with a "HDD drawer" (where each HDD is the only one on the system when you put that HDD in the drawer). I was hoping to have the boot system let me select which HDD (thus, which OS) to use on boot up. I don't like having a HDD sitting around unprotected when the other one is in use.

    Presently, if both HDDs are in the box, BOIS recognizes both of them and assigns a letter to the added one.
    Because the letter is not C:, batch files which mention c: don't work. Also any files which list C: are not recognized, so the drive is essentially useless for anything but taking up space in the case and reducing air frow around the main HDD.

    So, I'm still hoping for some solution. If there is none, I'll live with live with what is in my drawers !

    Thanks for the responses !
     
    Last edited: 2010/09/11
  8. 2010/09/11
    markmadras

    markmadras Banned

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    Sincere apologies PeteC, I read your post as a comment without realising it was a link to tell you how to install around the other way.

    BobM, if I understand correctly what you are trying to do, to have both operating systems sharing the same files and software, it cannot be done (as far as I know). This is for the reason you have mentioned with files being assigned to one drive only. Each OS has to be treated like a seperate computer with its own files and software.

    Have you tried out EasyBCD it should sort out the dual boot.
     
    Last edited: 2010/09/11
  9. 2010/09/11
    Bob M

    Bob M Inactive Thread Starter

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    Thanks, Mark..

    The two HDDs will act as completely different computers. No file sharing. One will run XP standalone. The other will run Windows 98 (or maybe DOS instead). The only thing they will share os the case, MB, and all the wires, but will do it completely separately.

    Thanks for the lead. I will check it out. Thanks also for your prompt response.
     
  10. 2010/09/11
    Bob M

    Bob M Inactive Thread Starter

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    Pete C,

    Like "Mark" I overlooked the link in red at the top of your reply. NOW I finally
    read it. Sounds just like what I need, and will try it. Thanks for providing this info. I'll let you all know how it works out. Thanks, too, for a very detailed and
    complete explanation.
     
  11. 2010/09/12
    PeteC

    PeteC SuperGeek Staff

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    No problem guys - new glasses all round :)
     
  12. 2010/09/13
    markmadras

    markmadras Banned

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    Just to add a little more info. When I said that the OS's cannot share files I am talking about system files. You will however be able to view, edit or play all your personal files, music, videos, etc, as long as you have the appropriate software installed under each system.
     

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