Since the Beta of Windows 7 was released I figured I would try to upgrade my Dell from the PDC release to the Beta. Unfortunately there wasn’t enough disk space on my 16gb SSD to accommodate an update so I decided to simply blow away the existing build and start fresh.

Before I got started I checked for any BIOS updates. I had previously updated to A03 but I found that another update was available  - onward and upward to A04.  The BIOS update worked flawlessly and I was ready to begin.

I decided to boot from the external CD. Since there are no dedicated function keys on the Mini I had to hit the zero key. Of course, this is an exercise in timing since it is only available to hit for a limited time.

Once the install disk booted I blew away both the main partition and the 200mb partition that is created by windows 7.  I then created a single partition but and told the install to use it. Windows still wants that 200mb partition so it repartitioned the disk and began the install.

Expanding the files took the longest – about 20 minutes. The entire install took about 45 minutes.

I did get the wireless hotkey to work by downloading the battery Meter/Wireless Switch for the Mini 12 (for vista). This installed fine on the 9. Thanks to the myDellMini website for the information.

So far the beta is working well – it is responsive and shows no signs of being a beta.