MS-DOS startup disk - but I dont have a floppy drive!!

[Lenzcuvasch]

Is there anyway for me from Windows XP to get to MS-DOS?

I want to reformat my computer....but i dont have a floppy disk drive installed.

 

[CitrixEngineer]

In a word, No.

Windows XP/NT does not use DOS as a base, unlike the other versions of Windows.

You need a floppy drive, or a bootable CD-ROM. You could make your own bootable CD-Rom with the tools needed fairly easily, if you have access to a CD burner.

I hope this helps. CitrixEngineer@yahoo.co.uk

 

[Lenzcuvasch]

Well....I actually have found the solution.

I used WinME as the boot CD. When it asked me to install, i press cancel. And whoops..... came c:\ appearing in my screen.

Thanks anyway

 

[ceh4702]

Try getting a win98 boot disk!

You will have the same problem trying to flash the bios!

I noticed WinME has a different format options.

format c:/s may not work in WinME.

I think you have to use:
a:> format c:
then
a:> sys c:

I find it interesting that the memory is still being used in the same was as if you were using DOS. If you do not like my post feel free to point out your opinion or my errors.

 

[CitrixEngineer]

Yes, it does work from a WinME DOS boot disk, or if you escape out of the CD's setup process.

You get a "real" DOS, not a Windows ME mode one, because the WinME shell has not had a chance to load.

CitrixEngineer@yahoo.co.uk