Search shows results but folder is empty...HELP

I just upgraded my laptop and Im trying to clear everything from the old one to use as a netbook around the house. Ive removed every program and deleted all my photos, videos, and music.

This should really bring it back to square one, but when I view the hard drive usage, it is still using 29 of 50 GB. I did a search for large files, and it yielded a ton of RAW files still on the machine but when I follow the path, the folder is empty. The files are not hidden and Im out of ideas. I also cannot delete them from the search screen either - nothing happens.

Any ideas on why these files are there and how to delete them?

Thanks!

Did you delete them from the recycle bin?

In2Photos wrote in post #10859163
Did you delete them from the recycle bin?

Yah, I checked there too. I also restarted and defragged the computer...

Empty the browser cache?

I would download CCleaner and use it to more thoroughly clean the laptop. Run it AFTER uninstalling any apps you need to remove. CCleaner does a good job of mopping up residual files and registry entries after uninstalling programs.

BTW... Have you considered just wiping the slate clean and installing Linux. I run Ubuntu on my netbook and it flies. Tiny footprint and has all the applications you could ever want... for FREE!

Since you want a clean start, why not just wipe the entire HDD and install a fresh OS?

MNUplander wrote in post #10859588
Yah, I checked there too. I also restarted and defragged the computer...

OK then...

René Damkot wrote in post #10860572
Since you want a clean start, why not just wipe the entire HDD and install a fresh OS?

This is what I would have done to start with as well.

In2Photos wrote in post #10861844
This is what I would have done to start with as well.

Ill end up doing this, I just dread that job, mostly b/c all of those disks for all of our computers end up in the same bin down in the basement and I loathe trying to sift through them for the ones that belong to the computer in question.

Thanks for the help guys.

MNU... I'm tellin' ya', for an older laptop with small HD, Ubuntu is the way to go. It's a no-brainer to install. It includes all the drivers you would need. Its wireless networking is excellent. Most important... no more worries about viruses! And, unlike Windows, it doesn't slow down with use. Fuhgetabout all those old install disks!

http://www.ubuntu.com/​desktop/features

Software includes:
Gimp
Firefox
Email apps
IM apps
Open Office suite (fully compatiple with MS Office)
Games
Video apps
Much more