Use existing HD in enclosure, can I run win and programs from there?

Here is what I want to do:
Remove my laptop HD, put it in a USB enclosure, run windows and programs from there.

I will be reinstalling that factory win7 on a new SSD, and slowly installing my drivers and programs there. I want to be able to still work with my computer while I build the new drive.

Step 1) problem. Can’t seem to tell it to boot from USB drive. Four choices on boot option bios: ASMT 2105, Network, Diagnostic, Enter setup. None do what I want.

So, is this plan even possible? Can I run my existing windows and programs via external USB enclosure?

I have Alienware M11x. i5 8gb ram
(I read on forums to use left side usb port, neither side works for me)


Thank you

I will be installing windows from the factory disc via my external dvd drive with firewire. (Should work)

I just want to use my current setup in the meantime while I monkey with building the new SSD.

Kari said:

You cannot run Windows 7 from an external USB HDD. The fact that your external USB HDD is in fact old internal HDD now attached to a USB case does not change this; it still is an external USB HDD and not capable to run Windows 7.

Kari

AHA, there is a clear answer, like I am seeking. Not the one I am seeking but clear.

OK plan B is to install win7 on the SSD, and access my files on the old HD.

Question: can I run the programs installed on the HD via the enclosure?

Kari said:

Before doing anything else, jump two posts up and read Britton's response (post #5). .

Thanks, but a big part of this project is a fresh installation of everything. I currently have a few curious problems like unnecessary low drive space warning, web hesitations, random "not responding" crashes..