Install Windows 7 via Flash Drive

[toejamtea]

I have a Sony VGC-RB50 currently running Windows XP. I have a flash drive with Windows 7 on it and want to install it, as well as remove all currently existing partitions and files.

I have the USB drive plugged in. At startup I press F2 to enter BIOS and change the Boot Order. I set the 1st option to "Removable Dev.", then hit F10 to Save and Restart.

The computer seems to ignore this change and continues to load Windows XP. I have 6 USB ports and I've tried all of them. Any ideas?

[Geek-9pm]

Well, a few questions.
Why not install Windows 7 from your DVD?
And how did you get Windows 7 on a USB?
You may have already read this:
http://www.intowindows.com/how-to-install-windows-7vista-from-usb-drive-detailed-100-working-guide/

[TechnoGeek]

this tool from microsoft: http://www.microsoftstore.com/store/msstore/html/pbPage.Help_Win7_usbdvd_dwnTool
the Windows 7 USB/DVD Download Tool, saves a windows 7 (or iso to a USB key or a DVD. if you used a different tool, it might be a better idea to use microsoft's own.

Anyway, if the issue is booting from the key, try pressing F10 to open 'boot menu' when you see the sony logo. The exact key should be displayed near the message to press F2 for setup. If you have this option, it should let you pick USB key to boot and override the BIOS settings, which might not be being saved properly.

[toejamtea]

Hey guys, the issue is resolved. My computer just isn't able to boot from USB because it's pretty old and the feature wasn't used much then, around 7 years ago. I bought a blank DVD and all is fine now. Thanks!