Installing Windows using the iPod via USB 2.0

[Eddie Gates]

Ok, I have two questions, neither of which fit into any other category, so I'll post them here..

I have a 20gig iPod. I also have a Dell Latitude D400 laptop without a floppy or cd drive (there's not even bays for them.. it's meant to be used with a docking station, but I didnt get it because I got it used) Anyways, the laptop reports in it's BIOS that it can detect and boot from a USB storage device.

I want to install Windows XP Professional on the laptop, and the only way i can think of to do this is to copy all of the files on the XP cd to the ipod, and also the Microsoft boot image. Using this method, would the iPod be capable of even starting the install?

I'd like to think the iPod is useful for me in this manner, but I wont know until I try it. Any feedback would be welcomed with appreciation. Thanx

[mdobilas]

I suggest saving the headache and getting something that you know you're going to need anyway.
Get an external CD drive.
Did a one second search on froggle.com and found your this here. (http://www.laptops4me.com/product_info.php/products_id/2225)

External 52x Write, 32x Rewrite, and 52x Read Speed CD-RW drive


It's 60 bucks and will save you hours of putting stuff onto your Ipod just to get them onto your lap top.

[Eddie Gates]

Thanx, but I've looked into that aspect.. Spending money when I don't have to isn't my specialty at all..

Update: the copying of the XP cd uses so much of the batteries charge, I'm thinkin that the actual install will not work, due to the battery not lasting long enuff to feed data through the entire setup process. I'm still gonna try it, cuz I believe the iPod can read data faster than it can accept data.. Wish me luck! L8er

[Eddie Gates]

Last Update: bad news.. the ipod cannot emulate a cd even with the boot image on it.. it tried to boot, but gave me some weird characters at the top of my screen, and nothing else.

:( you were right mdobilas, i'll have to invest.. but i have one more attempt: a network install.. but that wont be updated since it has nothing to do with this forum lol

iPod is kool, but not as good as i need it to be :-/