Even if you could copy your Win7 partition to external, it will not boot. However if you can copy the partition or data there using Paragon Rescue then you could reinstall Win7 to your C drive with external unplugged, then access data once install completes and you plug it back in.
The Paragon .exe will burn you a CD after you insert the free registration key from the link given on register step.
I was able to use the Paragon Rescue Kit CD to download my files to an external HD. Then I just did a clean install of Windows 7. This time a made a separate partition for the OS so if this happens again it will be a little easier. Thanks for all the help, this is one of the best forums I've been on so far.
You're welcome Jeff. Be sure to install programs to the same partition as OS. It is wise to place files on a separate data partition. You can link them to your libraries folders by rightlicking the given folder, e.g. Documents, Downloads, Pictures, etc. so that they will show when you click on those libraries on Start Menu.
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