Deadharddrive, broken cdromdrive, but...

[fleamailman]

Thanks, details are:

dell model no: pp04L

inspiron 2650

with charger only.

No restore disk,

license key under laptop.

What are my options:

- contact dell and replace cddrive?

- put of linux via USB if I can get in to boot to USB

- put harddrive in another comp, install linux then put harddrive back.

Anyway, there is no rush here but if there is a way to get XP on the comp I would like to know.

[tarquel]

External CD drive might be cheaper than finding the right replacement drive - form factor does change with slimline CD-ROM / optical drives I believe.

But if its still under warranty, call Dell, and even if its not, they might be able to suggest the replacement.

You might be able to find a replacement drive yourself however by looking up the model on the web etc.

There are some alternative methods but replacing the optical drive or getting a external one that is bootable is probably your best bet.

PS The linux on a USB pen is a option indeed if the laptop will boot from it.

Cheers

Nath

Edited September 26, 2006 by tarquel

[Tarun]

If the hard drive is dead, you'd have to install to a new HDD. If you have a spare machine, simply swap the hard drive for the duration of the install.