changing cpu & mobo = HDD format?

[Red96TA]

I'm looking into replacing my cpu, mobo, and ram, but I don't want to reformat my master hdd.

Is it possible to just replace my parts and hook everything back up and it'll work fine?

[Faustus]

Possible, but windows has a strange way of never really being the same.

If you are gonna try it remember to load all the new drives and run a good registry cleaner of some sort when your done.

[redwudz]

You can try it, nothing really to lose, but I would agree with Flaystus that you may have some problems from files remaining on the drive.

I have done it a couple of times, but ended up reformatting anyway. I'm guessing some stuff remained in the registry that the new setup didn't like.

The other benefit of a reformat is getting rid of all the hidden crap that accumulates on your HD after a period of use.

[Faustus]

Wait... if you on this site you should have a method of backup for your important files? why not just backup and format?

[ThomasW]

Is it possible to just replace my parts and hook everything back up and it'll work fine?

Yes if you're running XP and follow the instructions I posted HERE

[rallynavvie]

Getting all new hardware is a very good excuse to reformat your hard drive. Completely reformatting a drive should be done once a year or so to check the drive for errors and fix them is possible. Back up what data you need and then do a clean reinstall of your OS when you put together the new computer.

[handyguy]

Might be better if you told us what computer you have & what computer you want.

[Red96TA]

The computer I have is in the 'computer details' and I'm looking to move up to a AMD Athlon XP3200, MSI K7N2 Delta2, 1gb 3200ddr.