How do i reset an old Gateway Performance 550 2 load XP

[FONT= "Tahoma"]I have a old Gateway Performance 550 with an intel 3 550mhz proccessor that needs upgrading and has been re-formatted and just gagging to do some work.
I am trying to load XP onto a company built PC and i'm locked out Re: ANYTHING.
It appears that the bios has locked out even to a change of k/bd, let alone load a new OS, (was w98).
I have tried the PCs website to find any info & done the phone bit but to no avail.

So, can anyone tell me how to get through this issue as a decent little unit is waiting to go to it, TIA[/FONT]​

 

Start, by resetting the Bios, try to download the user manual before you do this as it will be most helpful.
2 ways to reset the bios/cmos, (make sure power is disconnected for either option)

1: find the clear bios jumper, set pins to usually 2,3 for 5 > 15 seconds then back to 1,2
power up the unit while pressing the enter bios button, usually delete

2: remove the cmos battery for approx 1 > 2 minute and hold the power button on, refit battery and reboot as in option 1

Some boards have a contact point instead of pins to do this, by using a bent paperclip,
but which ever way you chose disconnect & deplete any residual power before hand

hope this helps
Jac