I've tried to install a copy of Windows XP on a 250G SATA II drive with 2
partitions. I keep getting delayed cache write fails messages and very very
slow operation. Suddenly all will be fine, then on rebooting the errors
start over again.

Latest SATA driver installed during installation and disk checked out fine
with manufacturers test program.

Any suggestions gratefully received.

Processor Athlon XP3200+
Chipset NVidia 2 from Asus
1G RAM