Installing new hdd

[nickyorourke]

hi i bought a hdd from ebay and want to change it in my laptop do i need to format it then run the xp disc that came with my pc.its a second hand hdd and the seller left an os on the drive any help please nicky

 

[GhislainG]

Normally there's no need to format it before installing XP (you can do it at installation time). If the OS on it is Linux, you should read http://support.microsoft.com/?scid=kb%3Ben-us%3B314458&x=15&y=8.

 

[number13]

personally I'd repartition the HDD to get rid of all data and then boot with the XP disk and install fresh, no use in carrying anything forward,clean and safe and reinstall your A/V and enjoy

 

[nickyorourke]

personally I'd repartition the HDD to get rid of all data and then boot with the XP disk and install fresh, no use in carrying anything forward,clean and safe and reinstall your A/V and enjoy

when you say repartition does that mean reformat the hdd?

 

[pat mcgroin]

yes

Its best if you create at least 2 partitions and then you have to format them.
Reformating a new drive ensures compatability with the system.
With the extra partitions you have the ability to save your data in a different place and in the case of a system failure you dont lose it.

 

[nickyorourke]

yes

Its best if you create at least 2 partitions and then you have to format them.
Reformating a new drive ensures compatability with the system.
With the extra partitions you have the ability to save your data in a different place and in the case of a system failure you dont lose it.

ok i,ll give it a go and see what happens thanks