New motherboard = reinstall?

jrwagh333

jrwagh333

jrwagh333

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20 Aug 2008
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It's been a while since I've changed motherboard. The only thing that will be changed in the system is the Mobo and RAM, will be the same CPU and harddrives.

Will this require a re-install? It will be a different chipset, moving from and Nvidia 780a (AMD 1090t CPU) to a 990FX chipset (AMD 1090t CPU) Or can I just plug my OS drive and storage drive in and off I go

Running Windows 7 64bit
 
Always best to go with a format and a fresh install. Avoids any compatibility issues, back up all your important stuff before formatting.
 
Uninstall your ethernet card and gfx card drivers/software and give it a go. I've managed to do it with no problems on these three intel machines in here with no (detectable) problems :) I agree with Setter though that a fresh install is safest.
 
I changed motherboard recently without reinstalling. You should also probably remove your SATA drivers and replace them with windows generic ones if you're going down that route.

From my experience I wouldn't advise it, however. Everything seemed fine, then after a few weeks started getting random BSODs while watching videos, moving the mouse, browsing the web, etc. I ended up having to reinstall anyway, so it definitely wasn't worth it for me.
 
OK so I think I will re-install my OS but what should I do with my storage drives? Should I just unplug them and once windows is installed, shut down & then plug them back in?

Just worried it will see them and want to format
 
It won't format any drive unless you tell it to, even the one you are installing the OS to. Leave them in, but be careful when you choose formatting options.
 
my friend changed his mobo, ram cpu and gfx card but kept his HDD and after he booted up it says windows 7 is not genuine think he went from a dual core to a phenom II quad but quick re entry of serial number solved that, maybe just because of the drastic hardware changes, but not too sure where the line is on them
 
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