Is it possible to installing XP from an External HDD i.e. a Laptop HDD in an external case. As this would be easier for me due to when i add updates or change programs its a pain to write another DVD, And also wouldnt the read time be better on a External HDD?

Have you considered using a CD-RW?

I think this is possible using a BartPE CD. Basically, you boot off the CD and then run the Windows installer from within that. That way, you only end up really losing 1 CD instead of 20 or 100!

Yes, you can install from an external hard drive. You will need to use WinPE or BartPE to boot from, prep your target drive and start the install. I've done it and it worked like a charm.

hi guys! could you kindly share the exact procedures on how to do such ... thanks!

HAve you got a website for exact instructions as im a dumb a** when it comes to this stuff..

I was going to suggest this and this but both explain how to do it using only a CD.

But then I came across this which seems like what you're looking for.