New OS install boot issues

[blackacidevil]

I got a computer from work for free (they were throwing them out).

It's an NEC PowerMate 2000, P3-800.

I purchased a new HDD and XP Home. I kept getting a boot error

PXE-E61: Media test failure, check cable
Intel UNDI, PXE-2.0 (build 071)

For Accton EN1207D/EN2242A Series PCI Fast Ethernet Controller

Searching the web resulted in finding out that the PC is trying to boot from the network first, regardless of the boot order I set in BIOS.
(I assume because the PC was accessible by the public, the administrator restricted access to pretty much everything except web browsing, hence why I purchased a new HDD hoping it would solve the problem.) I cant even click the Windows START button!!!

I've been unable to even disable the network boot option either. The option isnt there, just the order of boot sequence.

1. ATAPI CDROM
2. HDD
3. Removable devices
4. Network boot

Doesn't matter what order they go in, the system is not booting up from the XP disc in the drive.

Found the jumper to clear CMOS. Removed the battery from the mobo and let the system sit for half an hour. I was able to reset the Supervisor password.

System sits on black screen when continuing boot mode. Nothing happens.

Put the original HDD back in, starting up the programs the system was designed for. However, some program access still prompts for admin password, which is not what I set Supervisor pw to in the BIOS.

System originally loaded with Windows 2000 Professional. Perhaps there are security settings in place that would prevent me from installing a new HDD and loading a new OS?

Hope I didnt just waste $200.....

 

[lone wolf]

is it a PCI NIC?
if so just pull it out until you install the OS. I have done that with several of my lab systems.

 

[blackacidevil]

Might take some extensive dismantling to do so....