I have a compaq armada e7oo laptop. I am trying to upgrade to win xp from win 98se.
This computer did have xp on it before, but I lost it.

While xp is loading and about half way thru, I get this error:

"Insufficient resourses exist to complete the API.

I checked with MS but cannot find this error code.

I need help getting past this.

Also, I did not have to do this before but am told that I need to change the bios to accept xp.

I need to know :
1.] how do I get to the bios.
2.] where and how do I get a new bios and
3 .] how do I install it.


I do not have a way to connect this unit to the network at this time. So everything MUST be done either with a floppy or a burnt cd.


help please

That error generally indicates incompatible hardware.

Here is the HP/Compaq main page on that laptop:

http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport...&lang=en&cc=us

Downloads including manual and any BIOS updates would be here:

http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport...233&taskId=135

The last BIOS was August 2001:

http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport...35&swEnvOID=33

To enter BIOS you should see what key to press when you start your computer. Usually on the bottom of the screen. Some use DELETE but I think HP/Compaq use F2.

The BIOS download (above) should contain a "Read Me" with install instructions. Usually this is a "flash" from a floppy boot disk.

Apologies for butting in here but, I'd like to clarify the following;

This computer did have xp on it before, but I lost it. .... .... Also, I did not have to do this before but am told that I need to change the bios to accept xp.

If XP was installed on this machine before, there should be no requirement for upgrading the bios.

No offence intended but if you don't know how to access the bios, I think you should hold off on trying to upgrade it, especially when it's probably not required. This can be a tricky procedure for someone who is inexperienced with it. The machine can be rendered useless if the bios flash goes bad for some reason.

What method are you using to attempt the "upgrade" to XP? From within the 98 environment? (ie; Win98 running and choosing Upgrade when you insert the CD?)

Or (if your XP CD is a "full" retail version) are you booting from the XP CD and trying a "fresh" install?

Is there data on the machine you wish to save, or have you (already) formatted the drive during the "upgrade" process?

As jephree stated:

That error generally indicates incompatible hardware.

Do you have any USB devices attached (external hard disks etc) or additional cards inserted in any (side) slots on the machine while attempting the upgrade?