not compatible with x64 mode

January 5, 2009 5:57 PM

I don't use PC's very much but I'm trying to set one up for my son and I'm encountering a very strange error when I try to boot from the XP CD and reformat the hard drive. I insert the CD and boot from it. The following error occurs: "Attempting to load an x64 operating system, however this CPU is not compatible with x64 mode. Please install a 32-bit x86 operating system." This is an HP Laptop that is only about 18 months old and has always run XP without a problem. What the heck does this error mean, and how can I fix it?

Please be specific with any instructions since I only rarely interact with the Windows operating system.

Thanks a lot!

posted by crapples to computers & internet (7 comments total)

Sounds like you've got a 64bit version of Windows XP there, which won't run on the computer, since it's a 32bit system. You'll need to get ahold of a 32bit version of XP.
posted by Brother Dysk at 6:09 PM on January 5, 2009

Are you trying to use a CD other than the one that came with the computer? If so, follow Brother Dysk's advice. If you're using the manufacturer-provided restoration discs you should contact them as they've made an error and given you the wrong disc.
posted by odinsdream at 6:12 PM on January 5, 2009

You are using the Windows 64-bit disc. You need to find the 32-bit disc.
posted by damn dirty ape at 6:20 PM on January 5, 2009

With an emphasis on choosing the recovery disk that came with the computer, or comes from the manufacturer for use with the computer.

With a stock version of XP, you may run into driver issues. Installing an operating system isn't easy to get right, don't expect it to go well the first time you do it.
posted by gjc at 6:35 PM on January 5, 2009

2nding what gjc said. Make sure you have all of the drivers BEFORE you start especially if this is the only way you have of going online. First time I tried this I couldn't even get the monitor up much less anything else.

Our HP computer didn't come with the install disks; we had to request them from the company.
posted by tamitang at 6:53 PM on January 5, 2009

What Brother Dysk said. You need a 32bit version. I have a friend who runs off a 64bit and though he likes it, it's hard to find all of the compatible software, etc that he wants. (And it sounds as though your hardware isn't compatible in the first place.) Get a hold of a normal XP boot CD and you should be fine.
posted by Kimothy at 7:32 PM on January 5, 2009

Thanks a lot. Not the answer I was hoping for since I'm not sure if I can get my hands on a 32bit version -- but at least I know how to solve the problem.

Thanks again.
posted by crapples at 8:42 PM on January 5, 2009