error loading OS

Alright I am on a new build and i am using the old hdds from the old computer. The problem is when ever i start the disk up to try and empty it for the new OS it says error loading system ( as in the os because i used it in a computer that worked totally fine ). The OS it had on it was windows xp media edition 32 bit. I need to clear them for the new build so is there anyway i can do this? I need answer quickly because school is almost starting! O and the new OS is vista home premium 64 bit.

Thanks Ace

 

Visit the manufacturer's site of the drive (say seagate) and download their utility, burn it to a disk, set the pc to boot from a disc, and you should be able to check the drive or reformat the drive with the software.

 

mine are hitachi and i have been looking for the right utilitiy in their downloads. can u help me find the right one?

 

The 'Downloads and Utilities' were very easy to find - in the 'Support' section on the Hitachi website

 

carnt you just delete the partition in vista set up :/

 

You can - boot up from the Vista DVD and while your choosing the drive to install to, delete/format the drive that's listed.

 

Alright thanks for replys! this is how far i have gotten... both hdds are coming up in the bios which is a good thing. when i start it from the disk and get into the format/partition/where to install area it shows only one hdd. i try and install on it and it says (little caution sign) windows is unable to find a system volume that meets its criteria for installation. I know where the downloads and utilities on hitachi's website is its just i dont know which to use for my problem. both hdds are hitachi 250gb 7200rpm 16mb