Irql_Not_Less_or_Equal
Look at this:
http://support.microsoft.com/default...b;en-us;311564
I think you need to isolate which device is actually causing the problem and install the OS without it if possible. If it something like a graphics card then it may be more of a problem. You may be able to plug the problem device back in when XP is installed & update the driver successfully.
Did the HD come with any utilities? Some need to be setup before you use them (over and above using fdisk or similar).
Am I right in thinking you must format the MBR (Master Boot Record) seperately to completly wipe the hard drive clean.? the usual Format and Fdisk options leave this sector alone (I think.. anyone else like to comment?)
Seagate offer free disk utilities which are designed for their drives but I think will work for most other drives. One handy function is the abilty to write 0s to the MBR, or if you have a lot of time on your hands, write 0s to every sector on the disk (I imagine that this will take a long time!) This completely destroys all data on the drive beyond hope of recovery. Quite handy if you sell your PC at a later date and don't want people ogling your credit card details, letters and vast porn collection. Ahem.