Keeping the same hard drive in new computer

Hi All,

I am using a new Maxtor 60 gb hard drive that I want to use in a new computer that I having built. It is Windows Xp formatted. I am wondering if I can just take it out of the old computer (Compaq) and install it as it is. Will I be able to use it with all the programs and devices in the new machine? Hope so, please advise. I don't really feel like doing a reformat and install of Xp all over again. I just did this on the old one about a month aga....thanks in advance...jongru

 

You can just plug the drive into the new system but I wouldn't advise it. Most likely it will work fine except for having to install drivers for the different mobo and any devices that are different between the systems. However, this could cause problems right away or down the line. Not saying it definately will, but it very well could.

I have always felt that when moving a drive between systems or making a major change to an existing system it is best to start from scratch.

 

A repair install will work fine.
It wipes the cab files so basically there is no drivers installed.

Just boot from the CD just like your going to do a clean install and windows will find the previous install and ask you if you want to do a new install or a repair.

Done it dozens of times.

 

Thank you both, I think I am going to start from scratch. I believe I can back everything up onto an external drive under the Xp save settings program. I would like to try to use all the stuff, but am afraid I might mess up the new mobo and bios.....again thank you....jongru

 

in theory....

in theory, as long as the HD you are putting into the new machine is going to be the Master drive, it should work.

 

No way, not possible! Do it the way ssmith10pn says.

 

I am wish ssmith10pn and sparrow too.

The HD in this machine is on its 3rd machine and has not been refornated or had a clean install yet.

Just need to be sure the the machine does not boot to the HD first. To a Floppy or the CD works fine.

I am not just sure what that means but do not believe you want the old settings on the new MB. Especially hardware settings. As they may well be nowhere near alike.

BillyBob

 

If ssmith10pn and sparrow say that you will be cool with a repair install do it that way!! Will save you a bunch of installing.