Intel to AMD help

[DCypher]

First, I am switching over from Intel to AMD next week. I am using the same hard drive though.

1) Should I low-level format it, or delete the partition?

2) I have a windows cd-key that i have used 3 or 4 times. Yet, every one of those times, I have deleted the partition, not low-leveled. Is this why I have been able to use that CD-Key so many times? If not, any other ideas?

3) I have my windows cd key, but not my disc. The cd key is from a Dell windows disk, could i get another copy of windows (non-dell) and use my cd key for the installation.

Now for two random questions.

4) Whenever I put a new disk into one of my drives, my computer doesn't recognize it (change the icon in My Computer) until I restart my computer. If I double-click it, it will read the cd correctly, just with the wrong icon. Also, my Autorun does not work at all. Any Suggestions?

5) For anyone with a ATI Remote Wonder, My sound does not line up correctly with the video. I don't think it's my sound card because I have a SB Audigy2 ZS Platinum. The funny thing is, if I run it off of my on-board (realtek) sound, it works fine. Any suggesions?

 

[biostud]

1. Just do a format and re-install of windows, no need to delete partitions.
2. AFAIK there shouldn't be any problems using the same key more than once, no matter what kind of way you choose to handel your harddrive partitions.

 

[DCypher]

I was under the impression that you could only use a windows cd key like 3 times. Is that not true?

 

[DCypher]

Help please?

 

[BarnyardMonkey]

"1) Should I low-level format it, or delete the partition? "

Just do a regular Format.No need to delete partitions. (As biostud has stated as well)


"2) I have a windows cd-key that i have used 3 or 4 times. Yet, every one of those times, I have deleted the partition, not low-leveled. Is this why I have been able to use that CD-Key so many times? If not, any other ideas?"

You can use that CD Key with your PC as many times as you'd like.deleting your Partition doesn't effect it.

"3) I have my windows cd key, but not my disc. The cd key is from a Dell windows disk, could i get another copy of windows (non-dell) and use my cd key for the installation."

You would have to get an "OEM" copy of Windows before it would work.A "Retail" Version of Windows wouldn't work (That i'm aware of).Since its a Dell CD Key. (OEM)


Also, what Version of Windows are you running?


Hope that helps.

 

[DCypher]

So do CD-Keys never run out of usage times, even if i change harddrives (which i will be doing soon)?

When you say format do you mean low-level format, doesn't that erase everything, even your partitions?

Would I have to get a Dell OEM or just any windows OEM?

I am running Windows XP.

 

[BarnyardMonkey]

Your CD key never runs out.
you can change however many HD's you'd like,and it would be fine.

If your running XP,just let the windows CD auto boot and let the windows installer format for you.
you don't have to do a Low-Level Format.
The windows XP CD will Format for you on install.


And you should be able to use any OEM Windows XP CD and it should be fine.
just if you try to install with a Retail Version of Windows XP is where it may not work.



Shawn.

 

[DCypher]

Awesome guys, thanks, can anyone else help me with questions 4 and 5.

 

[BarnyardMonkey]

For your Auto-Insert Notification (Auto Play),you can try some of these tips.

Auto-Insert Notification



Good Luck.



Shawn.