Vista installation error?

Ive built a computer and Ubuntu works on it just fine. I do have a Vista installation dvd that came with my Dell. I expected it not to install on my custom pc because OS dvds that come with retail computers usually have security feautres to prevent this.
When I tried to install it on my custom PC, it got up to a point where it told me that the Partition on my HD had to be in NTFS format. When I tried to format it though, it gave me an error message. Im wondering is this the security feature, or is there something wrong with my HD?
the HD and optical drive on my new custom pc is from my older dell desktop; I dont see how it could be a compatibility issue; ubuntu works on my new custom pc fine, I just wanted to hear from more experienced people

What was the error?

The Vista disc you have isn’t a proper install disc, it’s OEM. I know you know this, I’m just clarifying…

Do you have proper drivers for your hard disk controller? I know that XP had some issues with SATA controllers. I had to do the third-party-driver floppy disk routine with XP for my SATA controller, otherwise Setup couldn’t read or write to my hard disk. You’d think that this would be worked out in Vista’s setup considering today’s Vista-caliber hardware, but who knows… I guess it’s still Microsoft after all…

It’s possible the OEM Vista setup only includes the drivers for the OEM hardware *known* to be present, and all the extra, unused drivers were left out. The hard disk doesn’t matter, it’s what’s controlling the hard disk that matters. This is located on your motherboard, and will vary between your Dell and custom PCs.

Unless I get a specific error code or diagnostic message, it’s hard to say what’s causing the error. Without a cause, I can’t tell you how to fix it. Sorry.

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