Windows Cannot Find Hard Drives Connected To This Computer

I got a new laptop recently. It came with Vista Home Basic.
But it is extremely slow when I try to run processes. Windows Live Messenger, music, games, it’s just too slow for my liking.
I came ot the conclusion that it is Vista that’s making ti slow, with the amount of CPU it needs, in order to run.
To try and conquor the problems, without uninstalling vista, I’ve changed the theme to Windows Classic, changed all the animation effects etc, onto the “Best Performance” option. I’ve scanned for viruses, defragged my computer. I’ve done the works.
So I tried to install windows XP today. But when I try to boot from CD, I get an error when I select to do so.
“Windows cannot find any hard drives on which to install XP”
(^Not exactly what is said^)
Because of this error, I am forced to quit the installation and CANNOT install my XP.
Is there a way I can fix this?
I’ve tried downloading OS’s and running the Setup.exe file(s); but the “Install <operating system>” button isn’t click-able.
Thanks for any help.
Answer #1
You have to go to the manufacture of the laptop and download a driver that has to be installed for the SATA controller to be recognized. You will load it when you see the Press F6 key to load drivers, start mashing the button at that point.
You will need a floppy disk drive and a floppy to put the drivers onto.
Answer #2
Thanks.
Only problem is, I do not have a floppy disk drive. Just a CD-ROM.
Answer #3
that’s a problem. do you have access to a usb floppy drive?
Answer #4
I’m not sure. I have USB ports, if that’s what you mean lol.
Answer #5
yeah you should have USB ports, but you need to get your hands on a USB floppy drive. thats the only way I know of in XP to get your drivers loaded into xp at install point
Answer #6
or
look in the bios (enter setup at boot) for a RAID/AHCI setting and disable it
that will eliminate the need for F6 loaded drivers
Answer #7
^^^^ Thanks Edwood, forgot about that.
Answer #8
or you could use another pc and instert the drivers in you xp cd with “nLite”
Answer #9
blablahoh;s suggestion is very good, , just use nlite it to integrate the driver and burn a new cd , it will work flawlessly