I am trying to install ME on my parents computer, there is no operating system currently installed everything is connected up and the disk is in the cd-rom drive when i start the computer, it asks as expected whether to start from hard drive or cd-rom, I select the cd-rom start and then it just sits with a screen with flashing cursor and nothing happens, what have I missed?

When thing I can tell you is you missed the correct forum for posting this question. Perhaps they can help you here: http://forums.microsoft.com/TechNet/default.aspx?ForumGroupID=204&SiteID=17

As a non-expert for windows me, herere my personal opinions for the issue: 1. Make sure that disc is working on other PC 2. Switch problematic PCs CD-ROM and see if the issue persists 3. Replace problematic PCs HD with one on another PC temporality to check the issue Addition: July 11, 2006 will bring a close to Extended Support for Windows 98, Windows 98 Second Edition, and Windows Me as part of the Microsoft Lifecycle Policy. Microsoft will retire public and technical support, including security updates, by this date --------------- End of support for Windows 98, Windows Me, and Windows XP Service Pack 1

The problem was simple and basic error, the disk drive was plugged into the primary slot on motherboard and the HDD was plugged into the secondary so the pc thought the disk drive was the masterprimary drive n couldn't innstall ME to it. The problem has now been resolved now i have plugged HDD into motherboards primary slot and the disk drive to the secondary.

Glad you solved it