Asked By
esftech
950 points
N/A
Posted on - 05/11/2011
I have a laptop Acer Aspire 4720z running a Pre installed windows vista, can I replace my windows vista with windows XP? Would there be any problem if i do that in terms of hardware and software, specially the drivers. I don't like to dual boot the system because it use to much hard disk space and I don't want to use any virtual machine. I have tried several times but i had no success. Can I really replace my operating system? I need help please.
How to Install Windows XP on A Vista Computer
Hi Esftech,
Yes it’s possible to install Windows XP on your particular laptop model, the Acer 4720Z. Let’s outline the steps needed to complete the task.
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Download the 4720 SATA driver because the XP default install disc does not detect the presence of a hard disc (because of the lack of SATA drivers) on your Acer laptop.
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Integrate SATA driver into Windows XP Install Disc by using this tutorial
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After creating your own customized Windows XP install disc with SATA drivers made especially for your Acer 4720Z continue with the install. You may notice that your installer now detects a hard drive on your laptop. Complete the install and reboot
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Windows should boot fine but you will notice the lack of drivers. Here is the list of drivers you can download and install on your laptop.
http://www.driverscape.com/manufacturers/acer/laptops-desktops/acer/11075
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Now you will also need the Acer Empowering Technology Tools for Win XP as well since the one you previously had is for Vista. Download all files from Acer’s FTP site and install
NOTE: I personally hate these tools since they slow down my Acer laptop, but if you have sufficient memory it will be up to you.
How to Install Windows XP on A Vista Computer
Hi Esftech,
Why don’t you create aN XP Installation CD with service pack 3? I think it’s the smoothest way to install XP on your laptop. You need a standard CD of Windows XP Service Pack 3 and a blank CD. Once you have that stuff, you can follow some easy steps at the URL:
Or you can search for them by yourself typing “Slipstream SP3 in XP installation CD”. With the XP Installation CD updated, your windows installation recognizes your hardware correctly.
Regards,
Mark Smith.
