Troubleshooting Windows 2000 Installation on an HP ProBook 6540b: Comprehensive Guide

When attempting to install Windows 2000 on an HP ProBook 6540b, you might encounter issues such as the system hanging during boot from the CD. This article will explore potential causes and provide solutions for a smoother installation process. Factors such as USB support, the condition of the Windows 2000 CD, and the need for additional drivers will be discussed in detail.

Understanding Windows 2000 Support

While Windows 2000 does support USB, the level of support is not as comprehensive as in its successors like Windows XP or Windows 7. It's important to note that you do not need a floppy disk for a boot installation; you can install directly from the CD, provided your BIOS supports booting from the CD or DVD drive.

Diagnosing the Problem

The issue you're experiencing is likely related to the Windows 2000 CD. To rule out any corruption or damage, try installing the operating system on another laptop with similar specifications, such as a computer with a Pentium IV processor.

Alternative Solutions

If the CD works fine on another machine, your next step should be to verify the BIOS settings for the CD/DVD drive and ensure it's configured to boot from the correct device. Additionally, you may need to use a USB floppy drive, although Windows 2000 doesn't natively support USB. Instead, consider using a diskette with Windows 2000 drivers for the SATA II controller, as Windows 2000 natively supports IDE and SCSI controllers.

For more detailed instructions, please refer to the following resource:

How to Install Windows 2000: Additional Driver Guidance

If your laptop has a different controller, you may face additional device driver issues. This can significantly complicate the installation process.

Virtualization as an Option

Given the age and limitations of Windows 2000, running it in a vm (virtual machine) within a more modern and maintained operating system might be a safer and more reliable option, especially if you have sufficient RAM for both the host and guest operating systems.

It's important to remember that running Windows 2000 on the internet poses security risks due to its susceptibility to known vulnerabilities. Staying away from the internet while running Windows 2000 is recommended for security purposes.

For further assistance with Windows 2000 installation, you can refer to the official Microsoft documentation or engage with knowledgeable communities on forums such as Microsoft Answers or Stack Exchange.