New build hdd questions!

Shikarilol · 14 Jun 2011 at 20:18

Recently ordered some parts with the intention to use my hard drive with them. However, will i be to just 'plug in and play' or will i need to do something in order for it to work?

The hard drive is what I'm using in my current PC. It contains all my current drivers, files and OS. Will I need to pre-install the drivers of my new mobo/gpu etc before I use it? Will the pre-existing drivers affect the hardware? Or will I need to fully wipe the hard drive and start fresh?

Thanks for your help!

Daniel C · 14 Jun 2011 at 20:26

You will need to do a fresh install of Windows. Then obviously install all your software and drivers

IPAddis · 15 Jun 2011 at 13:18

I was quite surprised to find out that going from E6600 conroe to 2500k DID NOT require a reinstall of Windows. It detected the new devices and just carried on working.

Having said that, I was surprised to see this working and would have expected Windows to throw a fit. Try it, and prepare yourself for a reinstall if required.

Something like Acronis True Image may be able to switch over the OS if you're really deperate to avoid a reinstall.

skanky · 15 Jun 2011 at 15:14

IPAddis said:
I was quite surprised to find out that going from E6600 conroe to 2500k DID NOT require a reinstall of Windows. It detected the new devices and just carried on working.

Having said that, I was surprised to see this working and would have expected Windows to throw a fit. Try it, and prepare yourself for a reinstall if required.

Something like Acronis True Image may be able to switch over the OS if you're really deperate to avoid a reinstall.

same here, went from a e4300 to a i5 2500k (as i didnt hit f8 quick enough) and surprised it booted without issue or bluescreen!

edit: rebuilt it anyway (out of habit more than anything) but was amazed it worked..

Clav · 15 Jun 2011 at 16:18

Windows 7 and vista should take new mobo/cpu quite well but XP will have a hard time with it. A fresh install of Windows is recommended though.

David Koh · 15 Jun 2011 at 16:38

Heres what I have done with other peoples builds. I just plug and play the HDD. If it works it is a TEMPORARY meassure, as allways keep backups

. ALWAYS do a fresh install, then spray febreeze in the room, then turn on pc to get that new pc smell and responsiveness