Windows XP Reformat issue

[GunnyMo]

Ok, so I am trying to reformat my C: drive. I set the BIOS to boot from the CDROM first and, instead of taking me to the Windows install where I can reformat the C: drive it starts windows and takes me to my desktop! Argh!

Any suggestions?

[fitbabits]

Ok, so I am trying to reformat my C: drive. I set the BIOS to boot from the CDROM first and, instead of taking me to the Windows install where I can reformat the C: drive it starts windows and takes me to my desktop! Argh!

Any suggestions?
Check your BIOS again. Make sure you save any changes before you exit.

[fitbabits]

Also, tapping F8 while your computer POSTs should bring up a Boot Menu, from which you can select CD-ROM.

[biosc1]

Yah, check when your computer boots up if it says anywhere "Boot Menu" or something along those lines. Usually F8 or F12, etc..

Then again, I guess if you find the right one, we'll not be hearing from you because you'll be formatted ;)

[GunnyMo]

Yeah, I've checked BIOS 5 different times! lol And saved every time. I'll try f8 and see what happens.

[fitbabits]

Yeah, I've checked BIOS 5 different times! lol And saved every time. I'll try f8 and see what happens.
If your BIOS isn't saving settings, your CMOS battery may be running out of juice.

Also, check for any BIOS firmware updates. This may be a known problem that was addressed via a firmware update.

[GigaFuzz]

Windows discs often require you to press Space to enter setup, otherwise they'll just carry on booting normally. Are you leaving it unattended while it boots?

[Alkanos]

Sometimes you have to hit a certain key to actually boot from the CD-ROM, otherwise it boots normally. Make sure you're not just letting it skip the CD boot and go right to the HD boot.

edit: Bah, I completely missed Gigafuzz's post. Also, I didn't know about space being the key to hit.