Anybody here on LPA have any experiences with installing a fresh copy of XP on a HP branded computer? If so, did you find any problems like drivers, etc? Any info appreciated, thanks.
I have a Compaq (same company) and I've reformatted several times (although I've never just installed XP again). I used the discs that came with my PC so there were no problems except having to do automatic updates all over again. What problems are you having? I've dealt with my share of problems thanks to HP so I might be able to help you out.
What I’m worried about is that if I install xp without using the system recovery disc I’m not sure if certain things will work properly, like required things that were part of the system rec. cds. I just don't like having all that bloated software on my computer.
Was your PC installed with XP on it? Or have you bought a retail copy of it and want to install it on an older OS? If it's the first, there should be no problems using the recovery CDs. If it's the second, there could be problems depending on your computer specs. There's really nothing great about XP in my opinion. Same platform, just new colors and design. But, if you really want it, backup all your files and go for it. Worst comes to worse you can use the recovery discs to bring the PC back to normal. If you downloded XP (naughty naughty) then you must really be sure you want it.
Yeah, it's a preinstall which didn't come with any recovery discs. I have a windows cd from a friend. Don't worry, I know all the problems that surround XP.
If you don't have any recovery discs then I wouldn't go for it. The discs are about $25 if you're interested in getting them, however, they will be newer, uniform ones, not specifically made for your PC. And if you have to send in your PC to HP (God hope no one else has to) the price is close to $300. I know because I almost had to pay them, but since it took 2 shipments and over a month, I'm not paying. And I still don't have my computer back, college starts next Thursday. Case & point: HP is terrible when it comes to customer service and repairs. Do anything you can to keep your PC out of harms way. And if you do decide to install XP, try moving your important files to another drive if you have one.
I also read that HP were in court due to their ways of not supplying customers with install cds. I'm hoping that i'll be eligible to receive free recovery cds, even after warranty.
I'm doubtful if they will give you the discs for free (you can try and demand that they should have been given up front) but as I've said before, HP is just plain terrible. I'd advise you not to do it unless necessary.