Windows won't boot after new MB installed

[RFHarris]

I installed a new motherboard for my Windows 7 Home Premium system and was surprised to find Windows won't boot now. I tried repair option from the install disc but didn't help. I tried the in place upgrade but after selecting the Install now option I end up with a message that the system was booted from the install disc and I need to start Windows normally and then insert the install disc again which of course won't work when Windows can't boot.

I made a new install on a test hard drive to check my motherboard and it is working fine. What can I do? I would like to boot on my regular drive with all my data and programs and not have to go through the long process of finding and installing everything anew.

 

[linnemeyerhere]

RFHarris, Welcome to SF. Sometimes you get lucky with this process sometimes you don't but read the attached article for some help. I like to clean install but I always back up my data and keep all my software ready, but it is a much longer process but one I prefer.
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorial...lation-transfer-new-computer.html#post1161038

 

[RFHarris]

Thanks. I will have to re-install my old MB and go through this process. I knew that Win 7 doesn't use HAL so this must be the new process. I do have an old image (Acronis) stored on another system but restoring it to a different system can be a problem too unless you have the Plus version which I don't.

 

[linnemeyerhere]

Good luck and take your time. The faster you try to go and sometimes cut corners the more it comes back to bite you right in the arse !

 

[gregrocker]

If you can't SysPrep on the old hardware, run Paragon Adaptive Restore CD on the HD before trying to start it again.

Keeping a SysPrepped image of your favorite install or a PAR CD will assure you can always move it to new hardware ad infinitum.

 

[linnemeyerhere]

Great advice as always Greg !

 

[RFHarris]

may be posted twice - got through Sysprep, changed motherboard and booted up went through a couple of steps and got into an error loop "Windows could not complete installation, etc." pressing ok just reboots and goes into the same error process ad infinitum. Can I use Paragon Adaptive Restore on the new MB to get a clean boot? Need to find a place to download it without signup or other hassles.

 

[gregrocker]

Yes running PAR CD on the HD should startup Win7 on new hardware if it has not become corrupt.

You may have to complete your clean install which is never a compromise but always a fresh start, like getting a new computer except better. Reinstalling Windows 7