Last week, I finally got my new system setup on a dual boot. I had to install the version of Windows XP that came with my system because it included the hard disk controller drivers that the OEM does not. Luckily Dell provided me with just the setup disk instead of forcing me to reimage the system with all their proprietary nonsense software I don't need. I tried making my own install disc with the proper drivers, but it failed miserably. I only tried once, but I didn't want to turn this thing into an ongoing project. I wanted my system up and running.
As new hard drive controllers come out it becomes necessary to provide drivers during the setup process. This can be accessed by hitting F8 during the initial loading process of the Windows installation. The problem is, it is hard coded to look for the drivers on the A drive. You know...floppy drive. You know...that $30 option I opted to not option because WHO THE HELL USES FLOPPY DRIVES ANYMORE??? In fact, notebooks don't even bother including them anymore. Oh, and a USB floppy won't work. I has to be an old school floppy drive.
The plus side, everything is working. My games are awesome in XP and Vista does well with the rest. XP is a little faster booting to the login screen by about 5 seconds. No real biggie. I'm happy this thing is done and I can finally get on with my life...for now.
Happy belated Turkey Day!