Remove WindowsXP (RUS)

While working in Russia I bought a laptop that had Windows Vista, but I wanted the English version of Windows XP. The sales person said it could be done. When I returned to the vendor, the Windows XP was still in a Russian language base. I requested it be changed to an english version, but they said the Sales person/Installer of the XP will not be returning to their shop and he did not give me the cd's / not even the original Vista. Waving the receipts in their faces did no good. They haven't heard our saying "The Customer is always right."

I understand Russian, but the language difference is far beyond my skill level. I used it for awhile, but it's too difficult.

I am back in the states, I went to Staples and bought a new Windows XP, now as I am trying to install the new software, the process stops [shortly after the installation process] saying it can not find the hard drive and I think it's because of the original RUS version of the PC (an HP).

What should I do to remove the russian version so that I can reinstall the english; or is there a way to switch the RUS XP to English - i.e., the desktop icon labels, the menu choices, start menu...


The Russian Windows XP is Professional; I am trying to install the English version Windows XP Home Edition

Thank you for help!

 

This question often seems to appear, and it appears that you have one of those motherboards that XP has not got the sata driver for.
iI did a post just recently on this.
I will find a link.
No doubt you have not got a floppy drive in your laptop- most of this might help you.
http://forums.majorgeeks.com/showthread.php?t=168007

 

I have not tried removing Russian, but when I have had to mess with language options, this is what I did.
Click on the Control Panel.-- you need to apply classic view .
Click Regional and Language Options.
In the first box, change the default language to English - if it is listed (I have not used a russion XP ) Then installed services, click on Russian, and click remove (it will say that you cannot , until it is restarteed, but it should after restart. Then if English is a choice , I would think it is , either in uk, or, US form), then click on that, -do the same with keyboard, if it shows AS RUSSIAN,
Restart, and you should be o.k