Failed dual install with Vista Premium 32 bit

[cpcpcp]

for history see here
http://ubuntuforums.org/showthread.php?t=1499184

my question is

If i now try to install, but not a dual boot v10.4 will I now be able to get to my windows files - eg data type stuff such as spread sheets or doc files under Ubuntu or does it just not even read windows stuff?

or should I rush off and get Windows sorted out first?

go for Ubuntu - yes?
or
No fix Vista first?

[darkod]

Get a huge usb hdd next to you. Use the ubuntu cd and boot in live mode, Try Ubuntu option. In Places it should show you all partitions on all disks. It doesn't know what is what, so it will probably say 100GB filesystem, 200GB filesystem ,etc.

Click on the partition you need, or on one at a time, and it should mount it and open it. Copy all files needed to the usb hdd.

You don't even need to install ubuntu to read files on ntfs/fat32 partitions.

[cpcpcp]

thanks.

Tomorrow I go to get Vista reinstalled - probably on the small 80Gb disc.
Later tonight I shall go for your USB suggestion.

Once I get windows back I wiil try again for the dual boot (this time with version 10.4 which I guess follows the same procedure).This time I will click the advanced screen as you said.

[cpcpcp]

good news.

Those fixing my Vista prob by re-installing it will set up the dual boot for me whilst they have my machine