Trying to scrub my laptop...

[Serenity]

So, my old default was to simply reinstall windows... And now it won't even do that. I want to scrub it clean completely. Total reboot. Unfortunately, somehow I cannot find that file in the partitioned D drive... So, as I understand, the next step is to insert the boot disc... only mine didn't ship with one, and I cannot find a source for it online. So, I've come here for help. I REALLY want to start this computer over, as I cannot afford a new one, and heck, I can't even afford to send it to a professional. Any advice?

My laptop:

HP Pavillion dv6-1260se

[Tigger29]

Laptops usually put their "recovery disk" on a hidden partition of the hard drive.  To access this it's usually a matter of holding down a key during boot up (like F11 or something like that).  The owners manual for your laptop should explain how to do this.

Once in recovery mode there are usually two options... a "quick" recovery or a "full" recovery.  One option leaves everything intact only reinstalling windows.  The other option will wipe your hard drive's boot partition and reinstall a full image of windows - basically putting it back in the same exact condition as when you first purchased it.  Obviously you need to use the "full" or "complete" option.

Assuming you don't have a physical hardware problem causing your issues the only other thing you can do is to purchase a copy of windows and do a full install from that.  Make sure you download the HP drivers you need manually first so you have them available to install after the install.  Also you might check with HP sometimes they may be able to provide (or sell) a separate recovery disk for you to use.

[Serenity]

Laptops usually put their "recovery disk" on a hidden partition of the hard drive.  To access this it's usually a matter of holding down a key during boot up (like F11 or something like that).  The owners manual for your laptop should explain how to do this.

Once in recovery mode there are usually two options... a "quick" recovery or a "full" recovery.  One option leaves everything intact only reinstalling windows.  The other option will wipe your hard drive's boot partition and reinstall a full image of windows - basically putting it back in the same exact condition as when you first purchased it.  Obviously you need to use the "full" or "complete" option.

Assuming you don't have a physical hardware problem causing your issues the only other thing you can do is to purchase a copy of windows and do a full install from that.  Make sure you download the HP drivers you need manually first so you have them available to install after the install.  Also you might check with HP sometimes they may be able to provide (or sell) a separate recovery disk for you to use.

The manual is, unfortunately, 4,000 miles away... I've tried the recovery options, but those just backdate the computer to a previous back-up and don't do any good. And I have new version of windows, but it won't run the installation. I click "install now" and the screen just flashes.

[guncrasher]

manuals are on the net.  just google your make and model.


semp

[gpwurzel]

Software and drivers
http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/softwareCategory?cc=us&lc=en&dlc=en&product=3979400

System Recovery
http://h10025.www1.hp.com/ewfrf/wc/documentSubCategory?tmp_rule=35174&tmp_task=setupCategory&cc=us&dlc=en&lc=en&product=3979400

hope this helps,

Wurz