I did a complete install of XP on my old Compaq and formatted the partition so it would fit- It installed completely without a problem and then at the last restart my screen went black at start up- It beeps once loudly at startup and my screen light goes orange without ever turning on.

Hi hallibut19, I’d suggest you to follow the methods listed in the article mentioned below: Computer stops responding with a black screen when you start Windows XPhttp://support.microsoft.com/kb/314503Gokul - Microsoft Support [If this post was helpful, please click the "Vote as Helpful" (green triangle) button. If it helps in resolving your issue, click "Propose As Answer" or "Mark as Answer" button. By proposing/marking a post as Answered, or Helpful you help others find the answer faster.]