Windows 7 - Swapping hardware

[steelodon]

Do you know if Windows 7 allows you to swap hardware like the motherboard/CPU without reinstalling the OS? I think the motherboard I currently have is giving random issue for USB, video, etc. I may need to swap the motherboard.

 

[stinger608]

Do you know if Windows 7 allows you to swap hardware like the motherboard/CPU without reinstalling the OS? I think the motherboard I currently have is giving random issue for USB, video, etc. I may need to swap the motherboard.

Best way, as I said in another thread, is to do sysprep.

Just run sysprep just before shutting it down and changing hardware.

Go to "Windows>System32>sysprep

Do the "Enter System Out of Box Experience (OOBE)
Check the "Generalize" box

Set it to "Shut down" and then run it.

Once you change the motherboard/CPU it will boot up with 0 drivers installed and be just as if you had installed Windows for the first time.

Here is a good Sysprep tutorial. Be sure to read it:
http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/135077-windows-7-installation-transfer-new-computer.html

Doing Sysprep will insure that all works good and windows doesn't crash on ya when you install the new hardware.

You will have to do the Windows Activation again once the new motherboard is installed.

 

[BonzaiDuck]

Doing Sysprep will insure that all works good and windows doesn't crash on ya when you install the new hardware.

You will have to do the Windows Activation again once the new motherboard is installed.

Good advice. Another member had explained Sys-Prep to me, and that can be very useful.

Then, that leaves the "activation" problem for OEM Windows. You have to do it by phone, and I have little idea how their policy has changed. But even with Win 7, you could argue "hardware failure" prompting "replacement," and they'd let you re-activate.

Frankly, I even think you'll have to reactivate if you install the same make and model motherboard. Of course, that would make your story even more credible. . . .

 

[stinger608]

Right Bonzai, a person could argue that the old motherboard died and he or she decided to do a major upgrade since needing to replace the motherboard anyhow.

Which as the OP states, "I think the motherboard I currently have is giving random issue for USB, video, etc." Makes that argument pretty much truth.

 

[BonzaiDuck]

Right Bonzai, a person could argue that the old motherboard died and he or she decided to do a major upgrade since needing to replace the motherboard anyhow.

Which as the OP states, "I think the motherboard I currently have is giving random issue for USB, video, etc." Makes that argument pretty much truth.

In my experience, I never had to resort to more desperate measures like buying a new OEM install disc, or forcing myself to jump on the Windows [next-version] bandwagon.

It's just a source of anxiety until you see "Successfully activated" in the dialog window.