Thinkpad has no dvd drive, need to re-install..running out of ideas.

[detz]

So windows crapped out and I need to re-install it but my thinkpad does not have a dvd/cd drive so I have no way to do it. I've tried using a few usb sticks but I can't get it to boot correctly, any other ideas?

 

[fpar]

If your current windows is still working you can use an iso withe daemon tools, If not, you will need to create a bootable installer on an external hdd or ipod.
Good Luck.

 

[detz]

Windows did work but it wouldn't let me reinstall..said my version was newer than the one I was trying to install. I tried to create a new partition to install a fresh copy but that ended up messing up Windows(blue screen every boot now). I can't get anything to boot, the closest I got was it started to load and the it freezes.

 

[TSE]

The worst possible situation would be to buy an external USB 2.0 CD/DVD drive for about 60 bucks at your local electronic shop.

 

[me_94501]

So windows crapped out and I need to re-install it but my thinkpad does not have a dvd/cd drive so I have no way to do it. I've tried using a few usb sticks but I can't get it to boot correctly, any other ideas?

Press the blue "Thnikvantage" button when you start up (on older ThinkPads it's labeled "Access IBM"). This will start the computer off a hidden partition including a diagnostic toolkit and system restore tool for reinstalling Windows. Just be sure that you have everything backed up ahead of time. I think it may ask you if you want to back your stuff up before reinstalling (it wipes the partition and restores the system to factory defaults), but I forget.

Now if the hidden partition was nuked, well, you may have to break down and get an external optical drive...