Problem: Cannot a) delete partition (C:)-major one. Consequently cannot b) reformat drive. Both commands are faded down without explanation. (not accessible) My machine: IBM Netvista-o/s Windows XP Home Edition1 person needs an answerI do too

You cannot delete the active Windows partition while you are in Windows. This would be like trying to cut off a tree branch whilst sitting on it. You need to boot from the XP CD or use IBM's recovery process to reinstall Windows (see below for general instructions). If you are just trying to wipe the drive before sending the computer to a recycling center, boot from a drive wiping utility CD that you create like DBAN. Most laptops and many OEM (HP, Sony, etc.) desktop computers come with a factory restore image on a special partition on the hard drive. The factory restore process is normally invoked by pressing a Function key (like F11) at computer startup. There will be a message as to which Function key to press on the screen when you first start your computer. You can also refer to your computer manual, or the computer mftr.'s website, or contact its tech support to see how to restore your computer to factory condition since each computer mftr. does it differently - sometimes even between models. These machines also usually have a utility with which to create physical recovery discs in case the hard drive needs to be replaced or the factory restore image is somehow damaged. If you did not create the physical recovery discs and/or damaged the recovery image, contact the computer mftr.'s tech support to order a recovery disc set. This is normally very inexpensive, around $20-25. http://michaelstevenstech.com/cleanxpinstall.html - Clean Install How-To http://www.elephantboycomputers.com/page2.html#Reinstalling_Windows - What you will need on-hand http://dban.sourceforge.net/ - Darik's Boot and Nuke (wipe drive to US Dept. of Defense specs) MS-MVP - Elephant Boy Computers - Don't Panic!