Can't boot XP install from CD.

Trying to install Windows XP on a Compaq Presario 2209 laptop. I make the CD the boot device and it comes up with No Operating System Found flashing in top left hand corner. I have tried 2 CD's and I get the same thing. I tried installing them normally, but it tells me the version on the device is newer than the CD. Any suggestions?

 

What OS is currently on the machine?
If XP, the one already there may be SP3 and the one on the disk is only SP2.

Just at a guess, mind you.

 

It's Win XP Home w/ SP3. The real problem is not being able to boot from the CD. Would the SP make a difference if I'm trying to install? The reason I'm doing this is I've spent a week trying to get rid of Viruses and Spyware and when I run SpyBot, it finds a bunch ,but can't repair all of them. I just want to start from scratch and not have to buy a HD.

 

Try esc key during the compaq screen and see if it gives you a one-time boot menu where you can select CDROM.

 

Here are recovery instructions for HP/Compaq laptops.
1. Reboot, and repeatedly press F10 at the HP logo until the recovery screen appears.
2. When the recovery screen appears, press "Next" and then "Yes" to perform a non-destructive recovery.
3. To perform a destructive recovery, click "Advanced" and then "Yes".
4. After the recovery is finished, the laptop will reboot.
HP may/may not be useful, otherwise
http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/document?docname=c00681978&lc=en&cc=us&dlc=en&product=434626

 

Thanks to all for the suggestions. None of them worked. I will be replacing HD. Thanks again.

 

Hi,

The thing is when you replace the HD you will still need to boot to a CD to install the OS.
You might try to remove the current HD and then with the XP CD in the tray see if it will boot to the CD. If it doesn't it could be a problem with your XP disc or the DVDROM.