New Rig, Old HDD

panthro

panthro

panthro

Soldato
Joined
19 Nov 2004
Posts
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Location
Wokingham
If I put together a new machine i.e. mobo, gfx, CPU, PSU etc, but want to use my old HDD with windows etc installed, is this possible? Can I just plug it in expect it to load into windows?
Sorry if its a dumb question :o
 
You can try it but you might need to call up Microsoft for a reactivation code since you've changed a part (the motherboard) that should trigger reactivation of Windows. As matty114 mentions removing the drivers before you start would be a good plan although I'd really recommend a backup of important files and preferably a full reformat.
 
I'd recommend not doing this unless you know how to. Best thing to do anyway is format and reinstall.
 
The main problem is that my mobo is borked so I need to change it anyway.

And I dont know how to, Im a total n00b :(
 
Ok guys, I have taken the motherboard out and should be fitting an Asus A8N SLI Deluxe. Will my pc still boot up if I plug the old HDD into it?

I bought the PC from a reasonably well known online retailer (ends in "esh"), will the Windows XP cd that came with it still be ok to install even though I changed the mobo?

Im quite worried that Im going to screw it up anyway as I have never taken apart/put a PC together so Im expecting the worst case scenario! :D
 
panthro said:
I bought the PC from a reasonably well known online retailer (ends in "esh"), will the Windows XP cd that came with it still be ok to install even though I changed the mobo?
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The Windows Installation is probably an OEM one, not a retail one, so will be expecting a bios with the manufacturers name on it. I expect it will not boot normally.
 
Maybe this guide might be useful :)

I'm for formatting & reinstalling Windows*. To many issues just plugging it in including reactivating Windows. But the latter not a major issue as long as you call them up & explain situation (had to do the same last year).

*partition & back-up your data first or pick-up a 2nd (SATA) HD ;)
 
All the data is backed up so I think I will just boot from the Windows CD after calling MS and will do a fresh reformat and install. How does that sound?

This is all on the premise that I manage to plug everything in correctly and power it up! lol :)
 
panthro said:
I think I will just boot from the Windows CD after calling MS and will do a fresh reformat and install. How does that sound?
Click to expand...
You need to install Windows first, then when asked to activate it will fail then give you a number to call along with a code to give them. Follow the (phone) instructions from there :)
 
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