Changing motherboard

  • Thread starter Thread starter Ken
  • Start date Start date
K

Ken

Hello,

I would like to change the M\board on my computer without having to reload
my programs etc.

I use disk caddies for the boot disk.

I would like to know if it is possible to just change the motherboard and
continue using my existing boot disks.

I thought I read somewhere that it is possible but can not remember where I
read. I am hoping some knowledgeable perwon can help.

I am using XP Pro

Thanks,

Ken Brown
 
Hello,

I would like to change the M\board on my computer without having to reload
my programs etc.

I use disk caddies for the boot disk.

I would like to know if it is possible to just change the motherboard and
continue using my existing boot disks.

I thought I read somewhere that it is possible but can not remember where I
read. I am hoping some knowledgeable perwon can help.

I am using XP Pro
Click to expand...


A new motherboard usually requires a repair installation of XP. It is a
gamble whether one will be needed or not. If the motherboard is relatively
the same, XP will just simply boot up as always. However, if XP does not
boot -- it completely loses it, requiring a complete reinstall instead. I
got caught on this one when swapping my motherboard. There was no
backtracking after the failed boot and XP setup would not offer Repair as
an option.

To avoid being caught out on a limb, it's recommended to just go ahead with
the repair install - that way you are covered regardless of how that first
boot up with the new motherboard goes. Barring any unusual glitches,
programs and personal files should be ready and waiting when the repair
install is finished.

How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade (Reinstallation) of Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/default.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;315341

NOTE: The above article applies to retail CD or a generic OEM CD. If your
Windows came preinstalled and your recovery media has been customized by
the manufacturer, check your system manual for restore/repair options and
for directions.

Also, service packs and updates will need reinstalling.
 
I have done that in the past.
I have a MS copy of XP.
If you have an OEM copy of XP
It might be tied to a 'brand of hardware'
 
Ken said:
Hello,

I would like to change the M\board on my computer without having to
reload my programs etc.

I use disk caddies for the boot disk.

I would like to know if it is possible to just change the motherboard
and continue using my existing boot disks.
Click to expand...

Click on the link below, or copy and paste the link into the address box
if using the web based newsgroup.
Move XP to new hardware.
http://michaelstevenstech.com/moving_xp.html
--

Michael Stevens MS-MVP XP
(e-mail address removed)
http://michaelstevenstech.com
For a better newsgroup experience. Setup a newsreader.
http://michaelstevenstech.com/outlookexpressnewreader.htm
 
Greetings --

Normally, and assuming a retail license (many OEM licenses are not
transferable to a new motherboard), unless your motherboard is
virtually identical (same chipset, same IDE controllers, same BIOS
version, etc.) to the one on which the other WinXP installation was
originally performed, you'll need to perform a repair (a.k.a. in-place
upgrade) installation, at the very least:

How to Perform an In-Place Upgrade of Windows XP
http://support.microsoft.com/directory/article.asp?ID=KB;EN-US;Q315341

As always when undertaking such a significant change, back up any
important data before starting.

This will probably also require re-activation. If it's been more
than 120 days since you last activated that specific Product Key,
you'll most likely be able to activate via the internet without
problem. If it's been less, you might have to make a 5 minute phone
call.


Bruce Chambers
--
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