How to restore E6500 to Factory Default ??

Dear all

I have a question: I would like to completely restore my PC to factory defaults. There is a Partition called Recovery on my PC and a hidden partition which supposedly contains some information that allow a complete Reset to Factory Defaults.

I tried the DVD but this is a regular Windows InstallDisk

When Booting I have the F12 Boot Options but there is nothing to find there. I tried F8 then "Repair Computer" but the Windows Complete Restore does not find a Backup.

Can someone give me a description how to restore my PC to factory defaults?

Thanx alot in advance for your help !!

Greetinx from Germany

 

If you don't mind me asking, what Operating System are you running. I ask this because the instructions for using the recovery partition to perform a restore differ in XP from Vista.

For Both Methods:

Unplug any external peripherals (scanners/printers, USB mice/keyboards) and back up your data. Make sure you have the media for any applications you have installed after your computer was shipped to you.

Vista instructions:

Press F8 at startup and then go to "repair your computer". Then, select your language and logon as a user with administrative rights. In the list that appears click Dell Factory Image Restore. Follow the steps in the wizard to complete the restoration process.

Things to do afterward: Run Windows Update, install your apps/restore documents from backup, and make sure security software is present and turned on.

If for some reason you can't access Dell Factory Image Restore (for some odd reason my computer is like that, even with the partition intact) you'll have to breakout the Windows Vista DVD and the Drivers CD and do a clean install. Follow the steps here: http://support.dell.com/support/top...E4FE040AE0AB7E107E3&l=en&s=gen#man_osri_task2

For XP: Make sure the computer's off. Turn it on then as soon as you see the Dell logo, hold the Ctrl key down, then press F11. Release both keys. If you timed it right, the Dell PC Restore By Symantec wizard should start. Follow the steps in the wizard.

Things to do afterward: Run Windows Update, install your apps/restore documents from backup, and make sure security software is present and turned on.

If for some reason you can't access Dell Factory Image Restore (for some odd reason my computer is like that, even with the partition intact) you'll have to breakout the Windows XP CD and the Drivers CD and do a clean install. Follow the steps here: http://support.dell.com/support/top...5A4388E4FE040AE0AB7E107E3&l=en&s=gen#osri_man

Good Luck

 

Hi Booboo

I am running Vista. Thank you for your detailed description. I followed your instructions but same with you there is no option "Dell Factory Image Restore" only the Windows Standard Options. Which sucks, Every Laptop I have ever had had this or a similar feature...

I have contacted Dell support and they told me this feature was not installed on mine and that I would have had to order it when configuring my PC. I checked back but could not find that Option..

Thanx anyway

 

Well if your running Vista Business or Ultimate, you can create a complete pc backup image yourself. Once you reformat using the OS and Driver CDs', go ahead and set up the system to your liking-installing your favorite apps, etc. \

Then when it's set just right, create the backup image-Type "Backup and restore center" in the Start menu's search box to get started.