It's a genuine Windows XP Home Edition, version 2002 w/ SP2

Is it retail or OEM?

retail

So, I was thinkin about taking the HD out and putting it in my system, and trying the install that way. Would that be ok? I would just have to install drivers for the different hardware in the original pc right?

Or, if there is an easy way to wipe the HD clean I am open to that too. I could just pop it back into the original system and install XP I assume.

Thanks for the advice!

Please, anyone know what I can do?! I'm at the end of my rope!

It's not overheating, I have tried different RAM, CD ROM, tried the HD in another system (it wouldn't boot), I just don't get it.

This has to be a problem that has happened to someone else out there before.

Hey there .. I had a problem with unexplained restarted at the beginning of XP install once before - install ACPI support while installing XP ended up solving the issue. Right when XP install starts, when it asks you to hit "F6 if you need to install a SCSI or RAID controller", hit "F5" instead (even though there's no mention of it). This will show an additional menu offering HAL choices. For MOST PCs, the "Advanced Configuration and Power Interface (ACPI) PC" will work for you. There's also profiles for multiple processors, so try them out if it still doesn't work.

Where in the setup process is the system hanging?

Hey man thanks for the help.

It is restarting at a very specific point. When you run the install from CD it loads the setup files, then says windows setup is loading. It then gets to the screen where you press enter to install windows, and then it asks you to press F8 to agree and continue. Right when it says press escape to continue installing windows, it restarts!

I will try what you suggested. I swear I noticed enable ACPI support checked on in BIOS, I will double check.

Thanks again, I will report back soon.