Can I use this idea to reformat a HDD

[p/tBuilder]

I have an external USB-to-SATA adapter for 3.5" HDD's. The idea is to connect the HDD from my old PC, that has Win-XP on it, to this adapter and then to connect the adpater to the new PC via the USB and to make that HDD the first boot drive. I will then reformat the HDD in the new PC. Would this work?

 

[evilpenguin]

a lot of boards can throw a mental with usb booting, i would check that first. worst case pop the case and use the dvd drive cables as a temporary thing. direct board connection...

 

[p/tBuilder]

Ok, many thanks for that... I tried the idea but the BIOS didn't recognise it, so could be what you mention, or the very new usb-sata converter is faulty. Can't try your other suggestion of popping the case, as I still have other issues.