Hi,
Ignore DaveW's comments - he obviously either does not know how to do a
repair install, or failed to follow the instructions.
If you want to save the time of reinstalling all applications then do a
repair. Read up about it first, and make sure you do not boot Windows XP off
the hard disc drive until you have done the repair. It is a good idea on a
new machine to run memtest86 for at least 5 extended cycles without any
errors to prove your memory config is 100%. Any memory errors must be
resolved before firing up any OS on your new system. It would be worthwhile
doing a test install of XP with the view of discarding it when finished. The
purpose of the test procedure is to check that all drivers etc are 100% and
that you will have a stable system - don't reguster anything in the test
install.
For repair see:
http://www.michaelstevenstech.com/XPrepairinstall.htm
Note that you will have to re-register your computer. In the process you
will have to either get another Full XP license or remove XP from the
original machine.
It is always desireable to do a fresh re-installation of your system for
reasons already stated.
You can ghost the image across. You will benefit from a faster harddisc, but
will inherit any bloat and general crap that is on your current system. A
repair will still be needed.
If you are prone to getting virus, spyware etc. then I would not bother to
do a repair - do a clean install, get a good AV package, and spruce up on
computer hygene.
- Tim