Method to copy/clone a preloaded HDD?

[mikeb33]

I have a new hard drive that is preloaded with Windows and software and I would like to copy it before it is installed in a PC. What would be the best way to do this?
I can't boot from it because once it is used, the Windows authorization starts and the drivers begin to load and etc. How can I do it?

MIKE

 

[tslok]

I have done it with Ghost software. If you decide to use this software, you still need to connect the HDD to your computer. There are two ways to do it :
1) Install your "want-to-be" copied HDD as a slave drive inside your computer
or
2) Install your "want-to-be" copied HDD with a USB2.0 external HDD casing (cost around $15.00) and then connect it via USB2.0 port of your computer.
Ghost software will recognize all the attached HDDs and will allow you to make an copy of the HDD.