Is it a bad idea to install a fresh copy of Windows 7 on an XP system?

Or you can take screenshots and save them to a USB flash drive.

I also recommend trying HWiNFO and CPU-Z.

Hi there
The chances are that your XP system would work without batting an eyelid -- and better too probably.
Depends hugely on what hardware you have but these days there isn't much that won't run on W7.

Before attempting an install BACKUP you system first so if it doesn't work you can then restore your old XP system. Use something like FREE MACRIUM to backup -- don't rely on the Windows utilities.

You could also TRY W8 -- you might not like it but it DOES appear that the hardware support seems slightly better than W7 and it installs a lot quicker -- and that's by common consent even by the people who HATE W8.

You can download a FREE 90 day trial of W8 Enterprise from the Ms site to test it with -- if you don't like it then nothing lost.

As before ensure you backup your running system before upgrading / installing.

If you DO need MOBO drivers then the VISTA ones would probably work if you can't find newer copies.

For an old XP system you've probably got a better chance of making the 32 bit work -- chances are the old CPU won't even be capable of running 64 bit versions.

Cheers
jimbo

Press the Windows key & R at the same time, type DXDIAG then hit the save all information button, save it as a text file, attach it & send it. So we can review detailed system specs.

She lost the CD. I will check the Manu's website. I was just doubtful that they'll have a full download of all the drivers, but I think a long-time manu like HP should have this down by now.

My plans have already been to get the goods and keep them externally, then wipe the MFer out and to a fresh install. I just wanted to make sure of any implications I wasn't aware of.

I prefer Piriform and CPUID's software and will be using them. I trust them the most, kind of have a bit of a consumer loyalty to them.

Alexander Moore said:

She lost the CD. I will check the Manu's website. I was just doubtful that they'll have a full download of all the drivers, but I think a long-time manu like HP should have this down by now.

My plans have already been to get the goods and keep them externally, then wipe the MFer out and to a fresh install. I just wanted to make sure of any implications I wasn't aware of.

I prefer Piriform and CPUID's software and will be using them. I trust them the most, kind of have a bit of a consumer loyalty to them.

Right, but the other programs might help fill in the gaps of missing information. We only recommend software that's trustworthy.

I just checked online, and they have the Compaq 515 on CNet, and it clearly states that it has Windows 7 Home Premium, so you should be right to go.
You should be able to get the drivers you need from the Compaq website.

Link: - HP Compaq 515 Overview & Specs - Laptops - CNET Reviews

Hope this helps you.

Wenda.

Already found everything here : http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport...&lang=en&cc=us

I don't trust CNET very much. CNET is like this big downloads middle-man that often doesn't even have the latest version of stuff. I always try to go to the source whenever possible.

I should download the Win7 x64 version, yes? Since that's what I want.

I tried Windows 8 on a friend's computer once. It's awful. Now way. I'm hopeless navigating that crap.

Historically, Microsoft only get's their shit right on every other attempt. I eagerly await their 9th OS, however I feel that Win8 is all about tablets and touchscreens.

Alexander Moore said:

Already found everything here : http://h20000.www2.hp.com/bizsupport...&lang=en&cc=us

I don't trust CNET very much. CNET is like this big downloads middle-man that often doesn't even have the latest version of stuff. I always try to go to the source whenever possible.

I should download the Win7 x64 version, yes? Since that's what I want.

I tried Windows 8 on a friend's computer once. It's awful. Now way. I'm hopeless navigating that crap.

Historically, Microsoft only get's their shit right on every other attempt.

How much memory is installed in this laptop?

Honestly, I think between 2 and 4GB. I'm gonna guess you'll say 32 bit is better to install than 64? I didn't think it'd really matter performance-wise except in systems that have enough power (memory etc) that there's a difference between them. I figured in systems with low memory and hardware it won't really matter. Is there cons to installing x64 software on a low-end system?

Her current Windows version is 64 bit anyway, though.

I can't get into the system because it's filled with crappy Chinese software and viruses and takes 30 minutes to boot up. As-is, it's garbage really.