Transfer system and data

[donniet]

Hello,
I want to move XP from current HD to new HD while retaining old file MB has SATA and IDE. Old HD is IDE. New HD may be SATA.
Second related question. I may want to do this with drives which have never been installed on this MB.
What problems will I encounter?

Thanks

 

[damasvara]

Use HDD cloning software to do that. It will duplicate every byte of the original HDD to the new one.

Norton Ghost is the common tool, but there are freeware alternatives out there.

2 things you must not forget:

1. The new HDD must an UNALLOCATED disk (unformatted). Google around if you need detailed explanation.

2. Don't forget to also copy the MBR.

For the different MB question, as long as they are in a same platform (all Intels or all AMDs) and versions, you may most likely encounter no problem. A detailed explanation of the "other motherboard" would be helpful.

Hint: You don't install drivers in the MB, but always in the HDD.

Feel free to ask me if you have anymore questions.

 

[evilavatar]

If you are looking for a specific program you could try Acronis http://www.acronis.com/ or this easus software http://www.easeus.com/disk-copy/