Need to re-install windows when swapping motherboard??

Monkeyspaz5000 · 25 Sep 2012 at 16:52

I'll be swapping my motherboard to the gene v from asrock itx.

Now my question is, do I need to format and re-install windows??

I've read some people can just swap it over and it's fine.

Also read there's something in windows 7 (can't remember exact) that will take out all drivers etc so on next boot up (with new hardware) all will be fine.

Thoughts and help appreciated!! I so can't be bothered to completely re-install!!

bremen1874 · 25 Sep 2012 at 17:01

It depends on how similar the platforms are. If it's the same chipset you may get away with it.

Just make sure you have a backup and be prepared to reinstall if necessary.

Restoring a backup onto dissimilar hardware can work it you have the right software.

Gav_881 · 25 Sep 2012 at 17:19

win 7 retail has sys prep to do that, OEM is tied to the motherboard so you my have trouble authenticating

Monkeyspaz5000 · 25 Sep 2012 at 17:27

Sys prep. That's what I meant earlier!

varkanoid · 26 Sep 2012 at 13:52

it also resets all your settings too.

I have had problems when switching chipsets. Best thing to do right before you take the motherboard out is uninstall the chipset drivers.

8 Pack · 26 Sep 2012 at 14:00

Z77 to Z77 on Intel controller = Fine!!!!

goodl · 26 Sep 2012 at 15:28

Went from asus p67 to gigabyte z68 and changed CPU and it worked ok after a bit of fiddling

Monkeyspaz5000 · 26 Sep 2012 at 15:47

8 Pack said:
Z77 to Z77 on Intel controller = Fine!!!!

Hopefully as systprep just kept on throwing an error at me.

Will find out tonight if I get the build finished.

Monkeyspaz5000 · 27 Sep 2012 at 13:13

I just swapped it over and all went ok after the 1st boot. A couple of driver items missing in device manager - but sorting that now.

pugheaven · 28 Sep 2012 at 18:57

Yeah you can but have tio admit, I've just gone from a Q6600 to an i7 and in the end when I switched to the RAID array, end up installing and it's noticeably better anyway.