>>>Hi,
>>>
>>>I have reformatted my wife's computer, installed XP SP2 from the CD included with the PC (dell). Now I believe I need to install all different drivers. When I go to the Device Manager I see big yellow question mark in the Other Devices. I see the following Other devices (all with yellow question mark):
>>>Base System Device
>>>Base System Device
>>>Base System Device
>>>Ethernet Controller
>>>Network Controller
>>>PCI Device
>>>SM Bus Controller
>>>Video Controller
>>>Video Controller (VGA Compatible).
>>>
>>>Does it matter in which order I install the drivers?
>>
>>You should have another CD with all the required drivers. Software on the CD scans your system for required drivers and installs them as needed.
>>
>>If you can, install in this order:
>>- Base System Devices
>>- PCI device and SM Bus Controller
>>- the other devices
>
>I do have a Tools System Software CD that supposedly has Support Software. But I also logged into the Dell support page and it looks like I can download the drivers from their web site. I think the web site drivers are more up-to-date. And I will follow your suggestion of order.

What you may find is their site offers downloads for various hardware. However, if all you know is "Base System Device", how do you know which one(s) to download?

Dell's support software has more information than Windows, so it can identify devices that Windows can't. It can then load drivers for those devices that need them. I *think* current versions of the Dell support software can automatically go out to the Dell site to get the latest drivers.

Bottom line, unless you're really comfortable hacking with hardware you might be better off trying the Dell support software.