Buying a New Motherboard, OS on SSD, and Programs on HDD

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Nuttfuz

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Feb 15, 2014
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Hello,

My new mITX machine is getting a replacement motherboard as the MSI z97 Gaming AC motherboard crapped out, so I'm returning it. I'm switching to the ASUS z87 Maximus Impact. I'm only changing the motherboard, so can I do a clean swap and install the new drivers? If I have to reinstall windows, can my programs and files installed on my HDD still work when I install windows again?

Thanks in advance,
Nutt
 
Solution
USAFRet
Maybe. Switching motherboards is very much of a 'sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't'.
You won't know until you try. But be fully prepared for if it does not work.

If it was a preinstalled OS, then you WILL need a new OS and install.
What OS is it, and was it preinstalled (OEM)?
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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Mar 16, 2013
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Maybe. Switching motherboards is very much of a 'sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't'.
You won't know until you try. But be fully prepared for if it does not work.

If it was a preinstalled OS, then you WILL need a new OS and install.
What OS is it, and was it preinstalled (OEM)?
 
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Solution
geofelt

geofelt

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Oct 9, 2006
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The chipsets are so similar that I think you are very likely to be able to boot and just install the new motherboard drivers.
I have successfully made such a switch in the past from Z87 to Z97.

If you need to do a clean install of windows, you will get a clean registry which will require you to reinstall your programs . This might be an opportune time to convert to a ssd. You will not regret it.
 
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Nuttfuz

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Feb 15, 2014
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Hopefully it will be that easy. My OS is Windows 7 Ultimate, not OEM. I guess I'll find out next weekend when the new motherboard comes in.
 
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N

Nuttfuz

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Feb 15, 2014
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Cool, hopefully it will be that easy. As stated in the title, I have my OS on my SSD. Best investment I've made in the PC, it is very snappy. I also get to laugh at my roommate as his PC takes 4-5 min before it is all fired up and ready to go! :pt1cable:
 
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