Can`t install W2k Server: "Hard disk not installed"

[dannydanny]

Hi,

We got a brand new server. I created a RAID 1 virtual disk and formatted it (17GB) using Fdisk. I can access the C: drive with no problem if I run the command prompt.

Then I boot from the W2k Server CD, it loads all necessary files then asks me to press Enter to continue setup. The next screen says that a Hard disk drive is not installed!
The only option I have from here is to press F3 to quit setup and reboot....

Since this is me first time setting up a server, I`ve probably skipped a crucial step.... Could anyone give some advice?

Thanks for any info,
Danny

 

[Andreh]

Dannydanny,

There are a couple of things to take note,

If you are using a RAID controller (hardware) then you will need press "F6" during the boot-cd loadup.

This option occurs right after the black screen "Boot from cd...." mode changes to the Blue screen Windows install mode. It will be there for you to input for around 10 -15 seconds. The install mode will allow you to load a SCSI or RAID controller from a floppy disk at a later stage during the Blue screen install.

You will need to have the correct driver otherwise you will receive the same error message.

**Make sure you concentrate during this process. I don't know how many times i have briefly been distracted and missed the F6 option resulting in having to start again!**

 

[justdafax]

Danny2x

Andreh is right.
I have build over 100 W2K servers in the last couple years.
Sometimes the correct raid driver is on the W2K installation CD, like the Compaq smart array 3100-ES and sometimes the raid driver is not. (Compaq 5300) Also the IBM Serve Raid drivers are usually required for installation as well.
The F6 and supply the correct driver from diskette is the best and safest way to proceed.

Happy building.