Big upgrade with same hard drive?

A

Agistrar

New Member

Joined

Nov 3, 2003

• Nov 3, 2003

• #1

Okay, so I'm just about to do a big upgrade to new computer, which I am building myself. My question is, is there a way I can just pull the hard drive from my old computer and install it in the new one? What kind of things would I have to watch out for? I assume there's going to be some issues, since the OS would suddenly be exposed to entirely new hardware. Any suggestions, including, "It's a huge hassle, don't bother, just get a new HDD" are welcome. Thanks.

 

Last edited: Nov 3, 2003

9

9mmCensor

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Oct 23, 2003

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Banned Camp

• Nov 3, 2003

• #2

It will be a hassle, but you can format it and then re-install everything onto it, thus avoiding buying a new drive.

 

K1ll1nT1m3

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Nov 1, 2002

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KC. Mo

• Nov 3, 2003

• #3

You might be able to just install the HDD in the new system. If you want to try it, you will probably have to use the F8 option when windows boots and boot in safe mode. Then you will also probably have to reregister windows.

It would be easier to format and reinstall for sure. You dont need to buy a new HDD.

 

unreal

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Jul 18, 2003

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miami

• Nov 3, 2003

• #4

no need to buy another, especially if you have a spare drive that has all the install info on it, if the system is the same type, like via chipset and all it will be no prob, if it isnt and there are different m/b drivers you may need to reinstall.

 

K1ll1nT1m3

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Nov 1, 2002

Location

KC. Mo

• Nov 3, 2003

• #5

Thats what I was trying to say. Thanks. If its the same chipset, it might not be any problem at all. If it is different or has a problem, try booting in safe mode. I have had this work a few times when it didnt just change over.

 

vejita-sama

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Oct 5, 2003

Location

Seattle

• Nov 3, 2003

• #6

In theory you don't need to reinstall windows, just repair it. However, I've had better luck coping everything to a second drive (eg. ghost) and then installing windows on a fresh HD.

NT based systems don't like it when the MB changes

 

OP

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New Member

Joined

Nov 3, 2003

• Nov 3, 2003

• Thread Starter
• #7

Okay, thanks everyone. I'll probably just format and re-install, as my new mobo has a different chipset. I appreciate the quick answers.

 

FireMogle

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Joined

Apr 24, 2001

Location

Lawrence, KS

• Nov 5, 2003

• #8

NO problem, welcome and good luck.
Although I really didnt help at all.