The configuration editor shows it as Disk2, but winxp never sees it. It's not in the network, and doesn't show in Windows Explorer. I'm using a MacBook Pro.
I ask the question because: a) Windows doesn't see it, so I can't type format e: b) Parallels tools doesn't have an option for formatting a windows disk (why would it?) c) the Parallels online help does not mention "Initialize" or "format" (other than fixed vs. expanding) So, how do I format/initialize the new disk which I've already "attached" to the VM?
I was wrong about windows not being able to see it. It shows up under System information/System Summary/Components/Storage/Disks How do I initialize it? I found it in the user's guide (it would be helpful if it was added to the online help): 1 Power on your virtual machine. 2 To start the Disk Management utility: click Start -> Control Panel -> Administrative Tools -> Computer Management. In the Storage section select Disk Management. This will run the initialize and convert disk wizard.
Apparently you need to convert it to a dynamic disk first. Then you need to "Add a new volume". This will assign a drive letter, etc. Everything is now working.
Thanks, Peter, for putting me on the correct path. I abandoned windows about 3 years ago, and it's a bit foggy already....
Converting to a dynamic disk is not necessary, nor IMNSHO, desirable. If you aren't sure you need a dynamic disk, don't do it. If you have to ask why, you don't need it. Just let it add the signature, then create a single partition, quick format it (NTFS suggested) and go.
At this point I don't think I have a dynamic disk anymore. I ran out of disk space, and ran the imaging tool to expand it to 14 GB. Windows didn't see the extension, so I went into Control Panel and in the Computer Management/Storage area I found that the drive now consists of two partitions. While there, I "extended" the existing drive, so it now has the correct 14 GB, but it shows up there as two consecutive partititons (with the same drive mapping). I assume I'm good to go, but I'd have preferred to have done it right the first time.