Well theres another option here... My last machine shipped with 7. Which despite the claims doesn't always run XP stuff. Sometimes stuff I need and use on a daily basis. All the hardware is XP capable so I figured why not have both. Yes you can play with multi partions and formats, but theres a much easier way:) Have one fast sata HDD running XP, the original running 7. Just select from the BIOS on boot to choose. Both drives see each other OK and you still have 7 if you need it later. Also got another internal data drive as well as 2 externals, all readable. OK did take some time to locate a couple of drivers, I recall network was one and one bios tweak. But some generic drivers and a quick change, job done, works perfectly.

Pinky - you left the lens cap of your mind on again.