reformat question

So I'm trying to reformat my computer backwards...from 2000pro to Win 3.1. (Don't ask why-I just need to). I can't seem to find a way to restart in MS-DOS mode. The setup files come on 6 disks, and the setup always gives me a notification that I'm trying to setup from within Windows- even if I restart in safe mode with command prompt.
Is there a way, like in win98, to restart in MS-DOS mode so I can do a total reformat or clean install? Help!

((((bfsg))))

 

If you're going to install Win3x, you can't do it through Win2K. You will have to Fdisk from a bootable floppy and delete the current partition/s. Then create/format (Fat16), a new primary (max size, 2Gb approx) and if you can get DOS6.22 and install it first, it will make things a lot easier for the Win3x install. HTH

 

thanks for the advice...
why does installing DOS6.22 make it that much easier and what fdisk would you suggest? and also...I've long lost all info that was included with my disks-->are there auth/serial codes needed for the install?

 

With DOS installed first, the drive is bootable, (all your system files will be installed) and you can run setup from the first Win3x disk (A:\setup). Without DOS first, you will have to create your own Config.sys and Autoexec.bat files with paths to SMARTDRV.EXE and HIMEM.SYS, and a DOS 5x or 6x boot disk to transfer the system files.

No codes required.

A Win98 boot disk will do for Fdisk, just don't go with large disk support, when prompted.

 

wow...thanks for the info. I'm sure I'll hit a snag somewhere but maybe I'll get lucky. I've got to get this thing going soon so I'll give it a go. Thanks again

((((bfsg))))

 

Ok...I hit a snag.
I did Fdisk, deleted the partitions, then installed DOS6.22, then installed Win 3.1. Now it only boots to this screen:

Sarting MS-DOS...
HIMEM is testing extended memory...done.

C:\>C:\DOS\SMARTDRV.exe /X
C:\>

I am using a PII 350MHz...could it be hardware? Any help appreciated as I realize this isn't the Win 3.1 discussion board

 

At the command prompt (C:\>) type, edit C:\Autoexec.bat and the MSDOS editor should open. (Use the Alt key to highlight any menu and the Arrow keys to move around). Make the last line in the Autoexec.bat file, (WIN) without the brackets. Now Alt-F-S to save, and Alt-F-X to exit. Re-boot and Windows should load.

Or [type] win at the prompt and hit the Enter key to get to Windows from the prompt. HTH

 

woohoo!!!
thx