If the Dell recovery parttion does not work, your only option is a manual reinstall.  If you are in the US, HERE is the Dell page to request a replacement set of discs.  Under their new replacement policy I think there is a small charge for the discs, if you are eligible for the replacement program.  If not, you will have to buy a copy of Windows and then download all the drivers from the Dell Downloads for your specific model and Operating System.  THIS is the Dell support page to access the downloads (you can access them using your service tag number if you have the original hardware configuration).  When you get ready to do the reinstall, first back up all your user data, I.E. favorites, e-mail account and address book, etc to some other device such as CD/DVD's or a hard drive or if there is not that much to a USB memory key.   The correct and required install sequence on most Dell's (including reformatting the hard drive using the XP install disc) is (1) Install Windows (2) Install Dell Desktop or Laptop Support Software (3) Install motherboard chipset drivers (4) Install Device Drivers including video, sound, ethernet, etc.   
I am running on Windows XP Professional.  I need to do a full PC Restore and don't have the CD. I have gone through the instructions and backed up all of my files. When I try to start the restore process by hitting Ctrl F11 on the Dell splash screen I am not getting the Restore Window. A change was made to my configuration several months ago where now on a boot of the system I have the option to go to XP or the Windows Recovery Console. Any advice on how I can get the Restore screen to show so I can complete the restore? Thanks.
Help with PC Restore