Add an Old HDD to a New Windows PC keeping Data Intact
Hello Everyone,
Today’s blog post is answer to the query posted by Chris on my recent blog post (How to add an additional hard drive on a Windows XP Computer).
The Query was something like this…
Really useful information many thanks. But how can I add a hard drive that has data on it from another XP computer. Do I need to do anything different?
Also can I replace this old HDD in my new machine and expect it to work?
Okay, so the question here basically is, “How can I add an existing hard drive to a new computer” and make it work the good old way.
Note: If you don’t know how to open up your CPU and add components to it then I would recommend you to ask for some help.
Let’s begin the tutorial on, “How to add an existing hard drive to a new computer.”
You would need:-
- Full version of the operating system which want to install on the new computer
- Floppy Disc
- Basic Knowledge of Computer
- Preferably some assistance
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Add an Existing Hard Drive to a New Windows Computer
Step 1: Download all the latest drivers required by your computer’s motherboard and BIOS and place them in a floppy disk.
Step 2: Place the full version of the operating system (Preferably Windows XP) disk into the new computer.
Note: Make sure you have the full version as the pirated one might not work well.
Step 3: Shut down both computes and remove the Hard Disk Drive from the old computer. Make sure you pay close attention to IDE Ribbon to which this HDD was connected to.
Step 4: Add the old HDD into the correct IDE Ribbon of the new computer.
Step 5: Replace the cover of your new computer.
Step 6: Power on the new computer and then press “DEL” repeatedly to get to the utility screen.
Step 7: Now in the BIOS setting, change the sequences such that computer boots the compact disk drive i.e. the new Windows installation disk.
Step 8: Restart the computer and select, “To Set up Windows Now, Press Enter.”
These steps would make your new computer start installing a new copy of Windows XP on your old HDD and also make that HDD compatible with your new computer. This is one the best ways to add an old hard drive to a new computer without losing data.
Note: Do not format your HDD because that would erase all the data. If the computer asks “to repair copy of Windows” or “to add a new copy”, choose the latter one that would create space for a new windows XP OS on your old HDD.
I hope this short tutorial solved your problem Chris and the problem of many others who feel that it pretty difficult to add an old hard drive to a new computer without losing old data.
For any queries regarding this, comment below.
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