Replacing motherboard on hp touch smart 320 with windows

Vafangool

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Hey guys, if I want to change the motherboard on this PC, how do I get the current version of windows that is installed on the hard drive to work with the new motherboard? I know the license key has to do with the type of motherboard. I was told the motherboard fried on the PC, so if I put in a new motherboard of the same type windows won't work with it right?
 
Solution


It should activate. If it gives any trouble use the telephone...
The only motherboard you could use as a replacement in that sort of system is another copy of the original HP motherboard. It's like a blown up laptop internally. The mobo for an All-In-One system is a proprietary part made specifically for that model.

Thus, all the components (and hence, drivers) would be the same
 

Xyloriuphon

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I Have a hard time believing that the CD key for an OS is made for a certain Motherboard, like, How would they get Microsoft to make that license ONLY for that specific model number for the Motherboard? Every pc i've changed Keys with has had NO problems what so ever using that key (Changed from a Toshiba Key to dell, Dell to HP, Etc, Even from Laptops to desktops...)

I could be possibly wrong with my whole theory and such, But, based on my doings, I haven't got a error messaging stating "YOU, YES YOU, YOU CANT USE THIS KEY! ITS ONLY MADE FOR MY BROTHER THAT HAS SADLY DIED" Or anything close to that :D

EDIT: And what SchizTech said, You would have to either:

1. Get the same motherboard for the All-In-One
2. Modify the Original case to hold the Motherboard
3. Take out all the parts and put it in a different case (Probably the most expensive)

 


AFAIK, the key listed on the case sticker isn't actually the key used to activate the original factory image. The original OEM key is actually a volume license key (so they can activate a whole bunch of units with the same image, saving work and money). The key on the sticker will therefore be unused, only needed in case the factory recovery becomes unusable.
 

Xyloriuphon

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Oh, So, Basically, There just typing down keys and slapping them on cases that they didn't use to install the OS, But just to use later on? Okay, That makes sense, But, Wouldn't that be the same thing with the OP's question? If the key hasn't been used yet, It would potentially work with the new motherboard?
 


The key should work. I just question the point of this since that AIO system isn't meant to be modular like a standard desktop.
 

Xyloriuphon

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Yes, It doesn't make sense to be replacing the motherboard, Unless it is screwed or something. OP, What is your goal/problem that motivates you to replace the Motherboard? If it is still working, Just leave it in.

 

Vafangool

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Hey guys thanks for the quick replies, the computer was brought to me and they told me the motherboard fried, gets no power no lights nothing, I have seen some other people having the same issues with this PC. My intention was to replace it with a new one of the same model, what I mean with windows is it was already installed and activated , to my understanding when you activate windows with the license key it takes some information about your motherboard and CPU and sends it to Microsoft to identify your PC that windows is installed on. My concern is if I replace the motherboard how will windows boot up? Will the OS sense that it is a new motherboard? Thanks guys
 


It should activate. If it gives any trouble use the telephone activation robot.
 
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Vafangool

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Ok, that is what I was hoping would happen if switched it with the same exact motherboard, hopefully I wouldn't have any driver problems, the bios should recognize all of the hardware. My main concern was if I would be able to activate windows on the new motherboard because of how windows binds itself to the motherboard somehow. I just have to verify that it is the motherboard that failed and if it is where can I get a replacement. Thanks again guys
 

Xyloriuphon

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Just another idea, For the motherboard, if its just a blown capacitor or something that is just soldered on, You could potentially get a part that is exactly the same for WAAAAAY cheaper then buying a whole new motherboard. But, it depends whats wrong with the motherboard, and if your willing to do that :D