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Build Computers:
Step 16: Install Operating System
Welcome to the final step of the Build Your own Computer Guide and it's now time to install the Computer Operating System.
Most of the Windows Operating Systems are 'upgrades'. Upgrades cannot be installed to a new Hard Drive. You need to have a previous version of the Operating System installed before you can upgrade.
It is best to perform a fill install since it poses less problems.
If eventually you wish to install Windows XP, I would recommend that you first install Windows 98. The reason is you can run Windows 98 setup directly from DOS while you cannot run Windows 2000 or Windows XP setup directly from DOS. After you install Windows 98, you can then install Windows XP as a 'full install'.
Installing Windows XP:
After inserting the CD, if the 'auto-run' feature is enabled, you should see the Windows XP welcome screen. This screen displays that setup could take 30 to 60 minutes. Press 'Continue' to start the installation. The Wizard will be loaded along with the License Agreement. If you choose, you can read it. Otherwise, click 'I Accept'.
Your system will then request the 'Product Key' which is a 25-digit code that comes with your CD. Carefully type this code into the blank boxes.
When you hit 'NEXT', you will be given four setup options:
Typical, Portable, Compact and Custom.
These are all fully defined. You may choose anyone but 'Typical' is the choice for regular users. If you want specific control without 'fancy' features, choose the 'Custom' setup.
After several screens, you will be asked if you wish to make a 'System Disk'. If the one you use initially was borrowed, it would be wise at this time to make one for yourself!
After the computer has compiled sufficient data, it will request that you insert a formatted floppy disk into Drive A.
After the system disk is completed, the next screen will show "Windows is Ready to Start Copying Files". Click 'NEXT'.
When needed, Windows will re-start your system automatically until it comes to the 'Setting Up Hardware' screen. At this screen, Windows detects your 'plug-n-play' hardware and other components and installs their respective drivers.
After all this 'fuss' and 'frenzy', Windows will ask you to input your time zone and date. When this is completed and your computer re-starts, it will go into the Windows Computer Operating System.
After the Windows Computer Operating System is installed, you can install any additional Drivers (such as Keyboard and Mouse) or any other application programs you want.
Installing System Utilities and Other Important Drivers:
After installing your operating system, the first thing you need to do is install drivers for devices that were not found on the Windows 98 CD. This often includes things such as chipset drivers for your motherboard, Drivers for newer Video Cards, USB 2.0 Drivers and more.
Of these, the motherboard chipset Drivers are the most critical and should be installed first. A CD containing these Drivers should have been included with your Motherboard; insert this CD and follow the prompts to install the chipset Drivers. Then install other Drivers such as Video, Network, Modem and so on...
At this point, your system should be fully operational.
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