Windows Vista Need to reinstall factory software....questions

I have multiple Vista OS problems and need to reinstall the original software that came with my HP Pavillion. I am looking for the simplest way to do this and have some questions.
1. The original hard drive came partitioned into C, D (factory image) and E (new volume) which was basically blank. I have backed up all data onto an external drive but also onto E. When I reinstall the original software will E also be formatted or will I be able to recover my data from E? Basically, I am asking this because I figure a transfer from the hard drive will be quicker than from an external drive?
2. Is there any quicker way or shortcut to get around the tedious process of reinstalling software programs. Is there any use to transferring Program Data folder or is this asking for trouble or is anybody aware of a 3rd party program that does this? My concern however is that with a 3rd party program, will I be also transferring some of the OS problems I have had (Windows intaller doesn't work, no System Restore points, etc).

 

Thanks for your help. I guess that answered it. I'll just wait for a rainy day to reinstall.

 

Good idea

Third party program movers? They work on the basis of recording all the changes made when you install a program. They may profess to be able to move programs that they hadn't recorded, but I think you will find they don't give any guarantees that it would work and me, I wouldn't trust them in that regard anyway.

Matt

 

I have a very similar problem and also bracing myself to reinstall Vista. Presumably if it is a problem with the OS it doesn't help to take a disc image as you just getal the problems back when you re install the image? (I've never done a disc image so not really sure what it does).

I have read elsehwere that it is possible to do an in-place install of Vista by booting from the Vista disc and this will overwite the OS cfiels without formatting the disc. Has anyone heard of this or done it as seems by far the best solution?

Failing that if the only solution is to format the hard disc and reinstall the OS can someone tell me what else I should back up other than documents,music,photos? There must be a trillion OS settings that I have changed over time so are they stored anywhere obvious or too many to list? Presumably need ot check every program I have installed and back up any settings I have changed.

thanks for any advice. It's pretty daunting, but currently I can't read any Microsoft product help pae as all blank. I'm assuming a corruption in windowsmedia player as all other things I've tried have failed ot make any difference.