Replacing MOBO will i have to format XP?

jas72

jas72

jas72

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I have windows XP Pro.

I have now found out that my USB is banjaxxed on the motherboard. :(

I wish to buy a new one, will I need to format and reinstall windows or can I just add the new mobo and validate the XP key again?

I ask as I really don't want to format I have my PC running just as I like it and can't even being to know how to keep my old e-mail, Office updates, favorites, CD keys from online purchases (if I can find them) downloaded games and apps (D2D and STEAM); FSX addons etc.

If it needs a format can anyone help with the above. I have a 60Gb external drive that I can use (some USB ports work :D )
 
If the mobo is the same model and revision it should work without a reinstall. Other than that the best way is to re-format and reinstall. Is your copy of XP Pro OEM? If so the only way you can use it and still be licensed is if the motherboard is replaced under warranty.
 
Brian Stuart said:
If the mobo is the same model and revision it should work without a reinstall.
Click to expand...

It doesn't need to be the same mobo.. heck, it doesn't even need to be the same chipset.

I moved my install from my old nforce3 939 board to a p35 intel board, and it worked fine.

Just uninstall all drivers first, and use drivercleaner to remove all residual piffle, then install new drivers once you've booted up with new hardware.

*edit*

Just an FYI, I've moved installs between motherboards a fair few times, and this method has always worked flawlessly :)
 
Brian Stuart said:
Is your copy of XP Pro OEM?
Click to expand...

Is there any other kind if you I rarely see them on sale :confused:

I'm not going to argue the rights and wrongs of license permissions you need to have more legal degrees than Harvard Law school to work that one out.

If I get an activation problem I'll just purchase a new key. :p

Thanks for your replies guys.

The reason for the mobo change is that ANTEC have hinted that my 3.3v rail frazzled probaby due to a fault with the mobo.

I the USB stops working and everytime I plug in a device it searches for drivers. I thought this was an XP problem but it's infact a faulty mobo problem when the mobo switches off and on the usb connections.

They are sending me a new power supply but have recommended I change mobos.

Procedure is uninstall drivers replace mobo power up and reinstall drivers?

:D

Anyone know an easy way to ensure backups of all important information?
 
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