Intro

Restoring Used IBM Thinkpad R31 from Akihabara

Will try and install Windows 98, 2000, or XP on it.

Many such troubles since I don’t have CD nor floppy drive. Also never used floppy disk before so this’ll be interesting. And here I thought it’ll be a simple boot from USB fix..

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Project Logs

Project Log: Retro ThinkPad Windows Installation

Date: January 12, 2024
Time: 00:43 (Midnight)

Introduction:
Embarking on a nostalgic project to breathe new life into a Retro ThinkPad by installing an older version of Windows. The primary aim is to relive the experience of classic Windows operating systems, possibly Windows 98, Windows XP, or Windows 2000.

Progress Overview:

• Hardware Installations:
  • Successfully installed an IDE hard drive and a new CD drive on the ThinkPad.
  • Prepared a collection of CD and CDR discs for software installation.
• Software Goals:
  • Considering Windows 98 or Windows XP for installation, despite the original OS being Windows 2000 (as indicated by the sticker on the laptop).
  • The installation of Windows XP is preferred for this nostalgia project.
• Current Challenges:
  • The ThinkPad does not support booting from USB, limiting installation options.
  • Lack of access to genuine Windows XP or Windows 2000 installation discs.
  • Managed to install OpenDOS using a CD-flashed ISO, but facing issues with Windows installation.
  • Encountering a ‘Drive not ready’ error when attempting to access the Windows 98 or XP CDs in the CD drive.

Next Steps:

• Research and troubleshoot the CD drive issue to successfully load the Windows installation.
• Explore alternative methods for installing Windows without a genuine disc.

Closing Thoughts:
This project is paused for now, but will resume with new insights and solutions to overcome the current hurdles.

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