Need help on transfer of files from old XP pc to new Win7 pc

Hi all. I'm new to this forum, I was using XP Pro and am getting new Win7 Dell 8300 XPS i7 Home Premium 64 bit.

Last time I got a new one, I just installed the old drive as a 2nd drive in new computer and all my files were there as well as all my software I accumulated. Most of the programs worked but some did not, but no big deal.

I am thinking of doing the same thing when I get new computer again; probably will get it tomorrow. Since I am going from XP to Win7, will this be a problem?

Thanks for any advice. MT

ur question not very clear, r u asking about a method to transfer data? or software compatibility?, in the case of methods to transfer data, u can get an external hard disk, connect it to ur old pc first, get ur data inside then connected to ur new pc to transfer them, or for faster way, make a lan between 2 pc's, if that wat u want, please reply me so i can send u the details how to establish lan between 2 pc's...

regards

If transfering personal Data from Win XP, download the update WET from here:
Download: Windows Easy Transfer for transferring from Windows XP (32 bit) to Windows 7 - Microsoft Download Center - Download Details

Windows Easy Transfer - Transfer To & From Computers

Warning do not use the old Win XP Easy Transfer, will not work with Vista or Windowds 7.

Your idea to slave the old HD to the new computer is a good one, as you can then drag the files to their corresponding folders in the Explorer tree on the left side of each Explorer window, allow the tree to expand while you hold the left-click-drag, then release the group into the folder. Take your time to do this and get your new User folders populated.

You'll not be able to run any programs from the old HD as they must be reinstalled. A few games can be played from their old .exe's but its always best to start fresh with new program installs.

I would first audit your old XP installation using Belarc Advisor to get a full list of all your installed programs and any Product Keys which might be needed for reinstall. You may also need to install older programs in Compatibility Mode which emulates an older OS.

If you decide to boot XP on the new hardware, it will need a XP Repair Install
to adjust to the new hardware.

A good use for the old HD once the data is off of it is to store Win7 backup image and files:
Backup Complete Computer - Create an Image Backup
Backup User and System Files

I can run XP on new computer along with Win 7? If yes, how? Will it use the XP on the slave drive or do I need to install XP. I've heard of dual boot so I assume that means I could have 2 diff windows OS. Not too savvy on that stuff tho.

Thanks for the responses and the links.

Check out this tutorial by Brink, which explains how to dual boot Windows XP and Windows 7.

Dual Boot Installation with Windows 7 and XP

As I said you'll have to run a XP Repair Install on the new hardware to get XP to boot. Unplug all other HD's, set XP HD first to boot in BIOS temporarily.

You may also need to add SATA controller drivers during initial file-loading phase at F6 prompt.

When you plug back in Win7 after Repair Install, set it first to boot in BIOS. Then when you want to boot XP tap the one-time BIOS Boot Menu key given on first boot screen, choose XP HD to boot instead.

If Repair install will not run you can SysPrep XP first on old hardware: SysPrep to move HD to another computer.

If you readly need Win XP, have a look at XP mode.
Windows XP Mode - Install and Setup

Thanks guys, I really appreciate the help. I will leave this open for a few days until I get new one up and running if that's okay.

OK, we look forward to hearing from you.