I was asked to install Windows XP on a new PCI/PCI-e based machine. I tried to convince the person to install Ubuntu but since this person is a photographer, she wanted Photoshop. Yes I did explain that GIMP can do everything Photoshop can do.
I only had an original (Gold) Windows XP and when trying to install this on a new PCI/PCI-e machine, the dreaded BSOD (Blue Screen of Death) happens.
Here is how to solve:
- Ideal solution – convince the person to install Linux (Ubuntu).
- Easy solution – find a Windows XP install disk that includes either Service Pack 2 or Service Pack 3.
- If you do not have that then you will have to make your own Service Pack slipstreamed Windows XP install disk. I had a copy of Service Pack 3 lying around and this is what I had to do:
Follow the instructions at http://www.theeldergeek.com/slipstreamed_xpsp3_cd.htm to create the install disk. Be sure to follow the instructions to the T, particularly the one that say something about Emulating a Floppy in Nero when you burn the CD. If you leave that default, the CD will not Boot.
This slipstreamed CD should boot fine and the Windows install should now go through without BSOD. It still boggles my mind that the original Windows XP (even with SP 1) did not know anything about PCI interfaces.
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