How to Prepare HDD for new Mobo and CPU?

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RJRCO

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Dec 4, 2013
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I have a Win 7 Pro system, and I want to replace everything except the hard drive, as it is relatively new. Is it possible to build the system, and just install the old hard drive? How do I make sure the proper drivers are loaded for the new Mobo and CPU?
 
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USAFRet
and I want to replace everything except the hard drive
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A fresh install of the OS is the best route to take.
Trying to use a previous install on all new hardware might work, it might not. Even if it does, you may be chasing driver issues for weeks.
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Snipergod87

Snipergod87

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May 26, 2009
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It is recommended you reinstall Windows after doing that sort of change, wiping out old drivers and having a clean start.

Windows 7 may allow you to do that without a problem, but keep in mind you will have to re-activate Windows since several important system components will be changed (motherboard primarily).

Drivers for your new motherboard will be available on the manufacturers website.
 
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ram1009

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In case you don't already know it you will probably need a fresh copy of W7. Your old copy is likely tied to your old MB. Once you cross that bridge, it's a simple install. Set your BIOS to see the optical drive where the W7 install disk is located and follow the on screen prompts. You will be given an opportunity to format the HDD and I would take that opportunity to do so. Once the OS is installed use the disk you got with the new MB to install the proper drivers. That's it.
 
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RJRCO

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I have an external drive, would a Windows backup get me all the data I will need back, or would you suggest another backup solution? I want to make this process a easy as possible.

 
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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Don't do a Windows backup. Too much PITA. Just create some folders on the external, and copy your stuff over. Copy back as needed.
 
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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Don't do a Windows backup. Too much PITA. Just create some folders on the external, and copy your stuff over. Copy back as needed.
 
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ram1009

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If I were you, I would invest in a 128-256 GB SSD for the new machine and OS. After it's up and running install the old HDD as a second drive and migrate data at your leisure and use the second drive as bulk storage.
 
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