tinyjo | (no subject)

So, it seems pretty unlikely that I'm going to be able to get anything back from the Windows install of my laptop. I looked up the error code I get when checking the drive with Partition Magic again and it says "Try running chkdsk. If that doesn't work then, well, send us your hard drive and we'll have a look". So I'm pretty much resigned to it. It's annoying to loose the email but I'll just have to suck it down.

So the question now is, do I bother reinstalling windows XP? I found the "Reset to factory default" CD which came with the computer so I could put a blank Windows install in place and re-partion before handing over to Archie. On the other hand, I could just let him reformat the entire disk and put Linux on as the sole op system. I've found a program called JPilot which the internet suggests I can make work with my Treo if I'm really persistent. My camera just presents as a removable drive when plugged in via USB so that shouldn't be a problem. The only question mark is my scanner. It's a Cannon but I don't know the serial number off hand so I can't Google to check for Linux support. The modem will be a bugger to get working because it's a WinModem but I expect to be moving over to wireless in the hopefully relatively near future so in the mean time I can connect to the net from work. And then there's the DVD/CD-RW.

What do you reckon?

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

My winmodem was autodetected and setup when I did a Mandrake install recently, I tend to dual boot, because some stuff just works on Windows.

My thoughts would be what do you want to use it for? Can Linux do it better in some way.

The only other thing is that I've always had problems with power management and linux. But there you go.

I may have an old copy of Norton Utilities at home somewhere. I'll have a look tonight.

As for the question, do a dual install, not just Linux. I mean, how will you play computer games without Windows:-)?

Thanks. Can you text me if you find one as we're going to bed v early tonight in preparation for getting up v early to go to France.

Yes, assuming you mail / text me your phone number:-) (will text Alex if I don't have a number; if Alex doesn't receive a message, assume I haven't found anything)

Neal

You don't have a way of installing windows after you've re-partitioned it? Does it make it cheaper to license Windows if the computer manufacturer doesn't give you actual installation disks or something?

Got it in one. I've only got a "Restore to factory defaults" CD. On the other hand, I've just discovered that my office has got a proper WinXP disk, so I might be able to use that...