BleepingComputer.com: Windows Won't Boot

Hi, I have a windows vista OS and I just recently tried/wanted to dual boot with windows XP. So I created a partitioned drive (d) alongside my primary one ©. I ran windows xp setup on drive D and halfway during setup (when it's first copying all the files) my little brother pressed the power button so it suddenly got interrupted. When I turned on the computer again. It said "Error loading operating system". So I ran the windows xp setup again, after copying all the files and reboot, it says "press any key to load cd" again instead of continuing with the setup. I keep trying the set-up again and the same thing happens.

Vista was installed before XP so I'm guessing IF I had finished setting up windows xp correctly, XP would boot instead of Vista--but because XP didn't finish installing, my computer doesn't detect any OS so that's why it doesn't even give me the "Error loading operating system" message anymore, like there's no OS at all. But I believe Vista is either fine or the unfinished XP setup may have interfered with it (that--I kind of doubt).

So basically:
1. I can't get XP to install, it keeps booting from the disk even after the first stage of setup.
2. If I can't get the dual booting to work and windows xp to install correctly, is there anyway I can boot with Vista again?

I don't know, i'm not sure what is going on here
Would appreciate any help. Thank you in advance.

Note: I don't have the Vista disk since it was already installed when I bought the desktop.

This post has been edited by Lilii2: 31 July 2007 - 02:16 AM

What make and model is the Desktop? Did you delete a recovery partition in order to install XP? Did you make the recovery disks that the system should have prompted you to make? If not, then you may have to order a restore disk from the computer manufacturer.

FWIW - In order for things to work smoothly, you'll have to install XP first, then install Vista over it. While it is possible to do it the other way, it's a real problem (as you've found out) if everything doesn't go right.

It's a Compaq Presario SR5010NX.
I didn't delete the Recovery partition and have yet to make a disk out of it--which is stupid on my part.
So the only two options I have is now to to get the restore disk or install XP over Vista in the primary partition?

Edit:
I called the technician and they said the recovery disk will restore to the date when I first got the desktop meaning I will lose my files anyway, so I might as well completely install XP over it and download the extra drivers.
Thanks anyhow. =)

This post has been edited by Lilii2: 31 July 2007 - 02:59 PM

You should be able to recover your files without a whole lot of hassle.

If you haven't deleted the recovery partition, I'd suggest trying the Vista Startup Recovery by pressing F8. Then recover your files from within Vista. Try pressing F8 as soon as the BIOS finishes it's POST display. If you do get into Vista, then you can create the recovery disks from there also.