Re: [SLE] Dell/Compaq Hidden Partitions

From: John Andersen (jsa_at_pen.homeip.net)
Date: 10/03/04

  • Next message: Theo v. Werkhoven: "Re: [SLE] email services frustration" 
    To: suse-linux-e@suse.com
Date: Sat, 2 Oct 2004 15:07:14 -0800

    On Saturday 02 October 2004 01:31 pm, Fred Miller wrote:
    > On Saturday October 2 2004 4:50 pm, Donald D Henson wrote:
    > > I'm not sure if this is the right place to ask this but I don't seem to
    > > be able to get a clear answer from the other lists I have tried, lists
    > > to remain nameless.
    > >
    > > I want to repartition a hard drive to make room for Linux partitions in
    > > a dual-boot configuration. I tried using Partition Magic but it reports
    > > a non-standard partition and exits without making any changes. I have
    > > discovered that both Dell and Compaq create non-standard hidden
    > > partitions on their hard drives, the reason apparently open to debate.
    > > Does anyone know how to get around this non-standard partition? I'd
    > > appreciate any assistance here.
    >
    > Those partitians are used for data to "restore" your MickySoft system to
    > exactly what it was when the box was shipped. This, PROVIDING you haven't
    > changed the config. of that drive. IF you've changed the original config.
    > of the drive, then it won't restore. OEMS do this because they only furnish
    > a LIMITED OS from MickySoft - NOT the full copy. It's best to just blow
    > away all MickySoft, replace with SUSE and be done with it.
    >
    > Fred

    Actually Compaq lost a class action suit about this very issue
    and were required to provide partition removal tools (Windows can't
    remove that partition but Linux can) and, to certain class of parties
    to the suit they had to provide media with windows on it.
    I believe the Presario line was involved, and failed hard drives after
    the warranty left the customer with no legal copy of windows to
    reinstall. 

    -- 
_____________________________________
John Andersen

  • Next message: Theo v. Werkhoven: "Re: [SLE] email services frustration"

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