How do i make Windows redetect all my hardware?

PremiumG

Platinum Member
Jun 4, 2001
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i want to swap out my motherboard, and RAM. How do I make windows redetect all my components so i don't have to reinstall Windows? I've tried just plain swapping them before but Windows won't boot up (because hardware is so different I guess).

Is there a registry key I delete or an option to make Windows redetect everything? I'm running XP
 

DannyBoy

Diamond Member
Nov 27, 2002
8,820
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www.danj.me
There is no way to change to a different model motherboard (that uses a different chipset), when using XP.

This requires a re-installation of XP.

Im not sure on the technical details, but it is related to the chipset drivers.

You can only change motherbaords that have an identical chipset, and even this causes problems at times.

Re-install XP, it is your only option.

Dan
 

Budman

Lifer
Oct 9, 1999
10,980
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0
Originally posted by: DannyBoy
There is no way to change to a different model motherboard (that uses a different chipset), when using XP.

This requires a re-installation of XP.

Im not sure on the technical details, but it is related to the chipset drivers.

You can only change motherbaords that have an identical chipset, and even this causes problems at times.

Re-install XP, it is your only option.

Dan

Maybe you should go read the Anandtech Faq's DannyBoy. ;)


Helping Windows Survive a Motherboard Upgrade
 

Twista

Diamond Member
Jun 19, 2003
9,646
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choose REPAIR option.!
Boot with the Windows XP CD and at the Setup Screen press the Enter Key
You will be taken to the Windows XP Licensing Agreement. After reading the agreement press F8 to proceed.
The next screen gives you the option to do a fresh (clean) install or to "Repair the selected Windows XP installation." Press "R"
Windows XP will copy the necessary files to your Hard Drive to begin the installation and will then reboot. You will see the message that informs you to "Press any key to boot the CD". Do not press any keys this time just wait a few seconds and the Windows Startup Screen will be displayed. Following this you will be greeted by the Windows XP Setup Screens.
When Setup has completed you should find all of your previously installed apps and settings are intact.


HAVE PRODUCT KET READY!
 

DannyBoy

Diamond Member
Nov 27, 2002
8,820
2
81
www.danj.me
Originally posted by: Budman
Originally posted by: DannyBoy
There is no way to change to a different model motherboard (that uses a different chipset), when using XP.

This requires a re-installation of XP.

Im not sure on the technical details, but it is related to the chipset drivers.

You can only change motherbaords that have an identical chipset, and even this causes problems at times.

Re-install XP, it is your only option.

Dan

Maybe you should go read the Anandtech Faq's DannyBoy. ;)


Helping Windows Survive a Motherboard Upgrade

Perhaps you want to try reading the part that says "It's a big, messy job, and in my experience, it's rarely done without a hitch. "

Ive seen people try, and VERY rarely succeed a motherboard swap on XP.

Yeah sure it can be done, if you really want to go through all the hassle that will take you hours and hours more than you need, but as far as im concerned for a simple easy solution "it cant be done".
 

Budman

Lifer
Oct 9, 1999
10,980
0
0
Originally posted by: DannyBoy
Originally posted by: Budman
Originally posted by: DannyBoy
There is no way to change to a different model motherboard (that uses a different chipset), when using XP.

This requires a re-installation of XP.

Im not sure on the technical details, but it is related to the chipset drivers.

You can only change motherbaords that have an identical chipset, and even this causes problems at times.

Re-install XP, it is your only option.

Dan

Maybe you should go read the Anandtech Faq's DannyBoy. ;)


Helping Windows Survive a Motherboard Upgrade

Perhaps you want to try reading the part that says "It's a big, messy job, and in my experience, it's rarely done without a hitch. "

Ive seen people try, and VERY rarely succeed a motherboard swap on XP.

Yeah sure it can be done, if you really want to go through all the hassle that will take you hours and hours more than you need, but as far as im concerned for a simple easy solution "it cant be done".


You said there was NO WAY to do it,I was just pointing out that there is a way.