Re-installing Win 98 on new hard drive

[Joe W]

The hard drive on my Pavilion failed completely, and I am considering the
purchase of a new one. The computer is not worth putting too much 4 into,
but would make a good 'second' unit.

My question is: Can I reinstall Windows 98 from the recovery CD? With
no operating system, how will the CD drive be recognized?
Can someone give me some BRIEF instructions on how to procede?

Is it worth it?

Thank in advance to all responses.

Joe

[chuckie®]

Can you? Yes
Worth it? Probably.
Possible problems: The computer may, repeat, may have to be 'tattooed'. Some say that the 'tattoo'
resides solely in the CMOS/BIOS, others (myself included) believe that the HDD has some of it too.
This 'tattooing' can be done by any authorized HP service person, and, usually, doesn't involve a
large outlay of cash (maybe $20 or so).
Suggestion: Consider installing the OS 'clean', that is, from a OS disk rather than the HP
Recovery.
Problems: You need to have the appropriate drivers for audio, modem, video etc. in hand before the
install. Not impossible, but not real convenient. Been there, done that, although, at the time, I
had an aftermarket video and modem, therefore only needed the sound card driver. CD-ROM, CD-RW, FDD
and such are handled by the OS and not needed. You will also 'lose' all the HP software/bloatware.
Benefits: You will notice a significant increase in speed of operation due to the lack of
'bloatware'...luck...

Post by Joe W
The hard drive on my Pavilion failed completely, and I am considering the
purchase of a new one. The computer is not worth putting too much 4 into,
but would make a good 'second' unit.
My question is: Can I reinstall Windows 98 from the recovery CD? With
no operating system, how will the CD drive be recognized?
Can someone give me some BRIEF instructions on how to procede?
Is it worth it?
Thank in advance to all responses.
Joe