Hi Robert,

Where is it password protected?  When you first turn the system on, or when
the OS tries to load?  What OS is currently on it?

As far as the partitioning is concerned, this comes before formatting, if
you NEED to do it.  Considering that this is a Compaq DeathPro, I would
suggest you just format the current drive that the operating system is
loaded on and reinstall.  There's some tricky issues you can run into with
partitioning a drive on a Compaq system that would be better to stay away
from if you could.  If you have a real need to repartition the drive, let me
know and I'll respond off-list with what needs to happen.

Good luck!

Kyle Elmblade
Distinct Computer Solutions
Sales - Upgrades - Training - Consulting
[log in to unmask]
"A closed mouth gathers no foot"

From: "Robert Moran" <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2002 7:11 AM
Subject: [PCBUILD] Password Unknown - How Can I Access the System and Start
Over


I have recently acquired a used computer that is password protected.  I
would like to know the procedure for accessing the system and cleaning the
hard drives (there are two).  I would then like to load W98SE on the larger
hard drive (10GB).  I have done some research, but it is not clear, how or
when and if "Partitioning" and "Formatting" is required.  Which comes first
Partitioning or Formatting or is this a combined operation. The Computer is
a Compaq Desk Pro.  I opened the cabinet up and could see a 10 GB hard drive
and one other that I couldn't tell the size of.  How should I proceed from
here?   Any comments would be appreciated.

Bob Moran

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