IBM install, or clean XP install - and the consequenses?

[Torque]

`hi guys

Im just recently bought a wonderful IBM Thinkpad T41p - and im very pleased with it.

Only thing im a little worried about, is the IBM software. I really dont think it works that well. It has a lot of threads running, and sh*tloads of programs running in the background, for running stuff that windows propably would run just as good.

So, i have been thinking about making a clean install of XP.

How many of you in this forum have done just that? Can XP run the Thinkpad and control power, screen, hotkeys (for thinklight etc) and so on?

And if you have, did you delete the hidden partition then?

A bit of advise, experience and generelt tips would be great. Thanks

[puco]

I thing there are no problems installing clean XP, just backup the folders with drivers and software (just in case). But you should first try, which IBM programs you want use (e.g. IBM Access Connections is very good IMHO) and then install only those programs.

There are many threads in this forum or in Windows forum describing which programs are good a which are useless.

I also deleted the hidden partition (4GB is too much on 40GBdrive). Just disable it in BIOS and then delete it.

[Plinkerton]

I don't really understand hidden partitions. Is the hidden partition full of 4Gs of stuff? Or is it 4Gs of space set aside for certain stuff?

[Torque]

Well, despite that i've just installed everything i need, im really considering a reformat.

I've ghosted my current install onto an external HDD, så should everything go to hell, i've got the optional image.

[ndee]

Well, despite that i've just installed everything i need, im really considering a reformat.

I've ghosted my current install onto an external HDD, så should everything go to hell, i've got the optional image.

Just did the same but now, I'm looking for the driver for my wireless card but I can't access it. Check my latest post. But I have to say my T42p is A LOT faster IMO.