Can I overwrite Vista with XP on a new Dell?

[jsteph]

Hi,
I want a new Dell, I have a good deal on a machine, but Dell will only sell with Vista pre-installed.

I've heard and read too much about Vista and it's slowness, the suffocating security, etc., and my decision is that I want to stay with XP Pro.

Does anyone know about the general availability of XP Pro drivers, etc, for new Dell hardware--specifically chipset/motherboard stuff?

In other words, I know the Dell will come with CD's full of Vista drivers for it's installed hardware, but I'm doubting they'll include xppro drivers and with Dell's proprietery stuff, I might not be able to even find out the motherboard mfr.

Thanks.
--Jim

 

[nshenry03]

What type of computer is it? Most likely they made that exact same computer and sold it w/ XP a couple of months ago, now they are just being forced to sell vista, but everything should still work just fine as far as I know. Please let me know if I'm wrong though

 

[CorBlimeyLimey]

Check out Dells "Precision Workstations". They offer various flavours of Windows for small business use. Home or SOHO computer users are forced into Vista.

http://www1.ca.dell.com/content/products/compare.aspx/precn?c=ca&cs=cabsdt1&l=en&s=bsd

[Cheers]

 

[jsteph]

Thanks very much, I checked the dell site again and found both the precision workstation, and the Dell xps 710--a gamer performance box--with XP. They even state on the 710 page that they are offering xp still because of Vista compatibility issues with many games.

As to the backwards-compatibility with xp, I did online chat with dell and they stated that indeed it was all compatible with xp--basically because of what nshenry said--the hardware is basically the same but they just are pre-installing Vista instead of xp. My main concern was actually getting the drivers, but I think that windows update should detect the chipset, etc, and list updates on the windows update hardware section.
--Jim

 

[linney]

The Dell Decrapifier might be a handy tool for you?

http://www.yorkspace.com/2006/04/38

A warning from experience, it is better to get driver updates from the actual manufacturer than relying on Windows Updates, there have been too many instances of incorrect drivers coming from Microsoft.

This is a handy tool to use when chasing drivers.
Belarc Advisor:

http://www.belarc.com/free_download.html

Downgrading from Vista to XP
thread1583-1350480

 

[wahnula]

jsteph,

Check out thread602-1336192 It details the agony and the ecstasy of reverting from Vista back to XP. There are other. newer threads in that forum addressing your issue. I too have tried Vista but opted for XP again because I don't feel like buying a new printer or scanner yet. Best of luck.

Tony