Condensed version:

Free computer. Attempt 1 with original 20 gig. HDD to reload Windows XP fails.

Removed HDD, installed Win. XP on a ancient 3 gig (yes, they made them at one point) HDD, everything works perfectly.

At this point I tried formatting the original drive (the 20) as a slave, but I have no idea what I'm doing. I put it in again as the sole drive, with about six different jumper configurations, and I CANNOT get my computer (neither through bios nor windows) to recognize the 20 gig. HDD.

I know it was working a few hours ago, when I first turned the computer on, so I doubt the disk is bad.

Someone. Please. Save me from this headache.
Later,
Matt

Go to the manufacturer's web site and see if there is a listing of jumper settings. At least that way you'll be able to get the right setting for what it.

Beyond that, are you getting any error messages?

Nothing beyond a lack of recognition.

I went to a few computer stores today and brought it with me. Two guys told me it was shot, which I'll believe as it's probably old.

I now realize I need a new machine for the gaming and such I'd like to do, and I need help selecting a processor. Should I create a new post, or continue here?

Need something that ISN'T ridiculously expensive, but will suffice for most gaming. And movies, but that should need much...?

Pretty much anything that's within the last three generations of CPUs should suffice. Remember it's not necessarily the CPU that's the bottleneck w/ graphics. And you can usually save a good chunk of change if you buy something one or two generations behind the current but only lose 10-15% performance.