Sorry I hate starting a NEW topic, but couldn't find one that fit this.

Last year I tried to reload Windows XP Operating System on my hard drive, and it would only go halfway through the download and stop. 

So...someone told me I needed another Hard Drive. So I got another one, used off Ebay and put it in. all by myself I might add 

I tried to load Windows XP on it and it would get halfway through it and stop...and not finish. Just like the last one that was in there that worked for over a year before I tried to reload windows.

Now I am completely confused...and ready to just pitch it out the window...

Obviously the hard drive wasn't even the issue...? Since this one is stopping halfway through the loading process also?

Can you send me in the RIGHT direction please and tell me if this is fixable?

Thanks for any help you can send my way!I believe LostCoast nailed it identifying it as a bad optical drive....Have you tried a different XP cd? Quote from: Allan on February 28, 2012, 09:34:34 AM

Have you tried a different XP cd?

I believe LostCoast nailed it identifying it as a bad optical drive....

You can replace the optical drive with SATA ...or IDE...doesn't matter.
Personally i'd get a SATA simply cause they're newer and you can get rid of that fat wide ribbon cable...
Helps on airflow/cooling....

I would have no clue how to hook up a sata unless it came with instructions and a new cable...LOL

Here are instructions on installing a SATA optical drive:

http://www.instructables.com/id/How-to-install-a-SATA-CD-ROM-drive/

You can replace the optical drive with SATA ...or IDE...doesn't matter.
Personally i'd get a SATA simply cause they're newer and you can get rid of that fat wide ribbon cable...
Helps on airflow/cooling....

It's easier than you can imagine...as long as you take your time...7 minutes...start to finish.

I prefer the nice flat ribbon cables with the large surface are.
- Helps dust collection.

Thanks Patio !

Hmmm...do I detect sarcasm here?...