Can I move a HDD from a laptop to a desktop and use the OS off it?

Mattios · Jul 22, 2013

So that is my question really. The HDD is laptop-sized (2.5 inch?) and I was basically wondering if Windows 8 Pro could be booted off that and then possibly/ideally moved to a HDD/SSD in the desktop? (this is sounding less and less possible as I write it...). I still have the license key.

Also, could Office 2010 be moved to the SSD (off the laptop HDD)? I still have the license key...?

Thanks in advance

nukemaster · Jul 22, 2013

If the license is OEM, chances are you are going to be asked to reactivate and may fail at that point.

This also assumes that you do not just get a blue screen error from so much hardware change.

I am not 100% sure about Office, you may be able to contact MS to ensure it is legal to move that program over(only on the new system).

The general idea of moving a drive and cloning to another is not an issue at all, but the OEM agreement with MS says that new board = new system and requires a new copy of Windows. The retail version is able to be moved, but must only be on ONE system at any time.

RetiredChief · Jul 22, 2013

1) The HDD can Be used in a Desktop, Older cases need a 2.5-.3.5 in adaptor, new cases normally have a 2.5" bay. Really the only diff between the two drives (outside of size) is that 2.5" drives only use +5V while the 3.5" drives use both +12V and +5V No biggy as power connector has both.

2) If you try booting the laptop Win 8 in the desktop it will probably barf all over you - they will have a bunch of dardware driver issues.
.. You CAN move the OEM win 8 lic to the DESKtop (requires reistall) AS LONG as it is NOT used on the laptop - May need to call usoft o re-activate.

3) Should be able to "delete" usoft word on laptop and move to deskto, again a re-install and may need to call good old uSoft.

bryonhowley · Jul 22, 2013

If Windows 8 is a OEM it is intended to only be used on the system it came with. You might be able to re-activate it on the desktop but that is not how it is intended. But with such a big hardware difference there is a good chance it will not activate at all on your Desktop.

Also you will have to do a complete re-install in any case so unless you have a DVD or restore disc it will not work anyway. Even if you get it to boot most likely it will be very unstable.

RetiredChief · Jul 22, 2013

^ The OEM lic for Windows 8 is DIFF than for windows 7.
.. Windows 7 OEM is tied to the MB it is first activated on and CAN NOT be transfer to a 2nd MB unles the MB dies.
.. Windows 8 OEM CAN BE transfered to a New system as LONG as it has been removed from the first system. IE you can uninstall windows 8 OEM and sell the first system with out windows 8, then install your windows 8 OEM on a BRAND spanking new system.

Mattios · Jul 22, 2013

RetiredChief :

Okay - I purchased it from the Microsoft official website, is the re-install still applicable? And if so, how would I go about it (installing on a machine with no OS)?

Thanks

Dark Lord of Tech · Jul 22, 2013

OEM versions of Windows 7 are identical to Full License Retail versions except for the following:

- OEM versions do not offer any free Microsoft direct support from Microsoft support personnel

- OEM licenses are tied to the very first computer you install and activate it on

- OEM versions allow all hardware upgrades except for an upgrade to a different model motherboard

- OEM versions cannot be used to directly upgrade from an older Windows operating system

Microsoft.com ^

OEM vs. Retail

OEM Windows 7 comes preinstalled on computers. This is the cheapest way to buy windows. Large PC manufacturers like Dell, HP etc. (collectively called royalty OEMs) install windows on millions of such PCs. The main characteristics of such systems are:

The license agreement and support agreement is between you and the PC maker, not MS.

Activation by the end user is not required. Windows is preactivated at the factory by the OEM using images and standard SLP keys.

Your copy of windows is locked to that PC. The license is not transferable.

OEM system builder is what you get when you buy from say Newegg or from a local "white box" vendor. It too has the characteristics of Royalty OEM windows. Although it is possible for an individual to buy a System Builder copy, the license requires that the software be installed using the OPK (OEM preinstall kit) and then resold.

Retail version is what you buy from a retailer like Amazon or Bestbuy. Its a full price version that comes packaged in a retail box with a retail product key. It has to be activated online via MS servers using the key on the box, it is not tied to the PC it was first installed on, though it can only be used on a single computer at a time. And, MS directly provides the support for it. It is also more expensive than OEM copies.

As far as functionality is concerned, theres no difference between any of the versions above, given any specific edition (i.e. between OEM pro and retail pro, or between OEM ultimate and retail ultimate).

sevenforums.com

Windows 8 OEM is a whole different ballgame.

License agreement for the transfer of a Windows 8 license
http://personaluselicense.windows.com/en-US/default.aspx

RetiredChief · Jul 22, 2013

How To Clean Install Windows 8 Pro Upgrade
http://pcsupport.about.com/od/windows-8/a/clean-install-windows-8-upgrade.htm
I'm lazy in my old age - to much typing - LOLs.

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Can I move a HDD from a laptop to a desktop and use the OS off it?

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