wipe and insall vista professional

To make an OS fresh install the only thing you need is the installation CD/DVD. Just follow the instructions and say Yes to format the HDD when you are asked.

You will have to access to the BIOS in order to change the boot sequence and set up the DVD unit as your primary boot device (I don't remember the particular Fxx key that gives you access to the BIOS, but appears in the bottom of the screen during POST).

But my question is, why install a Vista, which has serious performance issues, if a Seven should work like a charm? I would recommend you upgrade RAM and processor and give a try to Win7.