Convert X86 to X64 into a new build

[Britton30]

What I want to do is convert a 32 bit Win Ult to 64 bit, transfer it to a new hard drive then install in a new build. It this possible using the same key used to activate the 32 bit install? I have Windows install DVDs for both which are Upgrade versions.

I'm also confused on the order to do things. Convert first, if possible, then clone the drive. Clone the current drive, do the build then convert. Also I understand maybe sysprep would be needed too.

I will have a new motherboard soon (hopefully) so I want to use my old one and CPU, graphics, and RAM to make a new PC for my wife. The only component that will be re-used is the DVD-RW and I may add a 2nd one which I don't need.

 

[gregrocker]

There is no conversion - changing bit versions requires a clean reinstall using the same Product Key if you wish.

It would be much easier to wait for your new hardware to be setup to boot the 64 bit installer and clean reinstall. The booted installer should see an OS to allow use of Upgrade version key during install - even if you go on to use Custom install Drive Options to delete, repartition and format. If not leave the key blank and after install do the quick registry workaround given here to use Upgrade version key on clean HD: Clean Install with a Upgrade Windows 7 Version

You can adapt these steps written for reinstalling factory OEM to get a perfect reinstall of your Upgrade version: Reinstalling Windows 7

 

[Britton30]

Thanks for the info Greg. This scenario is nearly identical to the last one you helped with installing Win 7 on a new SSD. This one will be a spinner drive though but the steps the same, on a new drive with no OS.

I'm really leery due the the many problems I had getting my SSD install activated. At any rate it will be several days before I have everything gathered and ready to do it. Christmas shipping may make it a couple of weeks.

 

[theog]

Most new MOBO's now have a uEFI BIOS.
How to install Windows 64 bit on a uEFI BIOS:
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorial...e-firmware-interface-install-windows-7-a.html

 

[Britton30]

Most new MOBO's now have a uEFI BIOS.
How to install Windows 64 bit on a uEFI BIOS:
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorial...e-firmware-interface-install-windows-7-a.html

It does have UEFI and boots to it automatically, I have no option to see a 'normal' BIOS. I don't understand a lot about it, but my board instructions had nothing like the hoops in that tut.
http://www.asrock.com/mb/overview.us.asp?Model=Fatal1ty%20990FX%20Professional

 

[theog]

The Windows installer can only make the Hd Drive set, from a fully unallocated HD Drive.

For more info on uEFI:
Windows and GPT FAQ
Unified Extensible Firmware Interface - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
UEFI and Windows

For uEFT BIOS setup, check the manual.

 

[Britton30]

Do you have UEFI Ray? Since this will be installed on a SSD I need to save space and it has Win 7 X64 on it already, waiting on the board RMA return.

 

[theog]

NO, I do not have one to play with at this time, all sold.