can I use an old hard drive with new computer components

[jboyd0921]

I cannot sysprep my old hard drive how can I install it with brand new computer components

 

[Math Geek]

install it like normal and when you install windows have it format the drive and you should have no issues using the drive with the new parts.

just don't expect windows to work as is, you will want to do a fresh install once it is together.

 

[bignastyid]

You can use the drive but youll need to do a clean OS install. If you copy of Windows is OEM you may also need to buy a new license as the current license will be tied to the old motherboard.

 

[thx1138v2]

You didn't say how old the hard drive is but that might not be a good idea if it's 5 or more years old.
http://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2016/02/hgst-hard-disks-still-super-reliable-seagates-have-greatly-improved/

 

[USAFRet]

I cannot sysprep my old hard drive how can I install it with brand new computer components

The physical drive? No problem, assuming it works.
The OS on that drive? Problem.

 

[jboyd0921]

install it like normal and when you install windows have it format the drive and you should have no issues using the drive with the new parts.

just don't expect windows to work as is, you will want to do a fresh install once it is together.

 

[jboyd0921]

the hard drive already has windows xp will that be a problem... also I am installing a new mother board and I cannot hook my power supply up to it is there an adaptor for this issue it has an 8 pin atx 12 v and a 24 pin atx what gives

 

[thx1138v2]

the hard drive already has windows xp will that be a problem... also I am installing a new mother board and I cannot hook my power supply up to it is there an adaptor for this issue it has an 8 pin atx 12 v and a 24 pin atx what gives

The hard drive you have will not have the drivers for the new motherboard installed so you can't just plug it in and have it boot up. That's why you have to do a fresh install - so it will install the correct drivers for the new motherboard.

You will need a new PSU with the correct connectors. There's more to it than just the connectors. Its highly likely that your existing PSU wouldn't supply the power needed even if you could find or make adapters. Also don't skimp on the PSU. Everything else in the box depends on clean reliable power to operate and you can damage existing and/or new components with poor power.

 

[jsmithepa]

Re-install from scratch is always the best and recommended.

Some people are doing a REPAIR INSTALL, but you are on your own there.