How can I restore my IBM Thinkpad back to its original Windows XP state?

Question

I think it is a little old, model is an IBM Thinkpad T42. Bought it second hand so I dont have the original CD thing.. However I have a Windows XP Home Edition that we use for our home computer.
I want to wipe it clean and back to basics with just Windows XP, in hope that it will run faster.
PS- Im not too experienced with laptops/computers!

Answer 1

Easy



Just put in the Windows XP disc (make sure the laptop is instructed to boot to CD first if not go to BIOS and set it or just press F12 and boot to CD)



and Install



Afterwards you'll need to download the drviers from another PC as the laptop may most likely not have internet (as the drivers aren't installed)



Just go to IBM's Support website and put in your Model in Downloads and get the drivers and put in a flash drive then install the drivers on the laptop and Done



[e-mail]

Answer 2

Ibm Thinkpad Windows Xp

Answer 3

Hey, no need to do that.



there is simpler way with IBM laptops. Most likely, you have auto-recovery option. As most of the IBM's come with this feature.



Just press power switch twice immediately after powering the laptop.



Alternatively, if your present OS is running ok, u may try 'Access IBM' switch' somewhere close to keyboard.



I am sure, you don't need separate OS or CD for clean formatting, Try 'IBM Rapid Restore' option. This should help you.

Answer 4

If you want to put your Windows XP Home Edition on it, then it is quite easy.

Put the cd in the cd drive

restart your laptop

and boot from the cd then follow the on screen instructions including a full format.

make sure you have the product key handy

If it doesn't boot from the cd then restart and press f2 or delete, depending on your bios.

this will bring up a screen (usually blue) which is your bios

find the boot order ( under boot or maybe advanced )

and change it to 1st boot device - cdrom

then save and exit

it will restart and you should see "press any key to boot from cd"

hope this helps

Answer 5

Press F11 while it's first booting up to see if you can get into the hidden partition and restore it to original factory state. If the partition is missing or won't work, you will need to call IBM and pay... yes pay for the cds. They are $45 plus tax in the US.