Dual hard drdives and dual OS

[BobZolto]

I want to install a second larger hard drive on my XP computer and an OEM version of Windows 7 Home Premium. In a few months, when the budget allows, I want to upgrade the components of the machine with a new Mobo, CPU, etc. At that point, I would like to have the Windows 7 OS and programs on the present smaller drive (that has XP and everything else on it now) and use the new larger drive for data, etc. What is the easiest way to go about this? Thanks.

 

[Bare Foot Kid]

Hello BobZolto.



Just be advised if you install an OEM Windows 7 to your present hardware and then update/replace some of that HW the Windows OEM version will not activate as OEMs are tied to the first set of HW it is installed to and it can be very difficult, if not impossible to get it activated on new HW.

 

[BobZolto]

Well, I want to upgrade the processor to an i7, so that will require a new mobo because I don't think the present one -- a Gigabyte GA-P35-DS3R -- won't support an i7. So I presume the best thing to do is hold off until I can put everything together.

 

[DocBrown]

There are some great deals on Windows 7 Home Prem retail versions over the OEM version.

One member got a Family (3-pack) for $129 at NewEgg.

 

[gregrocker]

The mobo is supposedly the one hardware item which will not allow reactivation of Builder's OEM. However numerous reports have been made of exceptions being granted by MS activation phone agents. I would not count on this however.

More on OEM for you to consider: http://www.sevenforums.com/general-discussion/109054-windows-7-oem-regular.html#post944882

As Doc suggests, the Upgrade 3-pack is now about the price of one Upgrade version. If you have any retail XP or Vista you qualify for Upgrade version.

 

[BobZolto]

I already have the OEM version and have had it for beyond any time period in which I could return or exchange it. I suppose I could get an upgrade version for the XP machine and go on from there.

 

[whs]

It would appear to me that the easy route is to install the new mobo first and then install the win7 OEM - unless you have used it already for an installation.

 

[BobZolto]

That would be the best way, but budget constraints will delay the new mobo, etc. So I have to make a decision here: wait and continue with XP on the machine for a while longer or go the more expensive route overall by getting an upgrade version.

The logic seems to lead me to stay with XP for a bit longer.

 

[Bare Foot Kid]

Maybe you could install but not activate it for up to 120 days, will you have the new HW by then; I'd wait to see what others with more activation experience may have to say about this option with an OEM version.


Activation Trial Period - Extend Up to 120 Days

 

[BobZolto]

I could, but couldn't the change in mobo be recognized anyway?

 

[Bare Foot Kid]

I could, but couldn't the change in mobo be recognized anyway?

It's the activation to a specific mobo ...

That's why I'd like to see what others may say.

 

[whs]

I think that is an excellent suggestion. Work with the delayed activation for 120 days and see whether you can get the new mobo by then. If not, you can still bite the bullet.

 

[BobZolto]

I think I can bite the bullet for the mobo and delay the processor replacement, as long as the old one will work with the new mobo.

 

[gregrocker]

I agree with BFK and whs, you're already good to go with your Win7 OEM for up to almost 120 days using slmgr -rearm every 29th day until you buy your new mobo.

When you install Win7 on the second HD, unplug the XP drive. After install plug back in the XP HD to boot via one-time BIOS Boot Menu. This keeps the HD's independent to come and go as you please.

Shortly after installing Win7 and programs, save externally a backup image so if it takes longer than 120 days to buy your new mobo you can simply reimage Win7 and copy in your latest files: http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/663-backup-complete-computer-create-image-backup.html

As soon as you get your new mobo, you can try to start up the Win7 HD. If not use Paragon Adaptive Restore CD to remove the drivers so it will start. Otherwise clean reinstall.

XP will start up on the new hardware after running a Repair Install: http://pcsupport.about.com/od/operatingsystems/ss/instxprepair1.htm