Solved Recover old files after new CPU & MB install

[kreesdqban]

Went from an Intel MB and CPU to an AMD setup before realizing that wouldn't just be able to boot into my existing windows installation when I first plug everything in. From what I've seen on the forums I've decided to reinstall Windows 8 on the machine. The problem is that I need to recover the files on the old Windows installation. I have 2 HDDs to play with.

What should I do? Make a LiveCD of some kind and install Windows on a new partition? Make an Ubuntu LiveCD and transfer the files to the other HDD then install Windows?

Any kind of help would be greatly appreciated!

 

[exscentric]

I'd stick the new drive in and install windows and then you have your files on the other drive to copy onto the new one. If you don't have two bays you could get a usb to ide or sata cable unit for 10 bucks and copy them with that.

 

[kreesdqban]

Really? USB to SATA cable? So all I would have to do is power the HDD and connect the HDD to, lets say a laptop, and I could access all the files on it?

 

[kreesdqban]

Ok I just saw that adapter, looks good. But is there a way I could transfer files from one HDD to another before installing Windows? Both HDDs have files on them...

 

[exscentric]

With an adapter OR if you have two slots in the computer stick both hard drives in, copy files to old one, then unplug it, and install 8 to the drive where the files are not. When 8 is installed you can access the old drive and all files.

Look around, there are lots of usb to ide/sata cables, be sure to get one that will fill all your future needs. Type in usb to sata at Amazon and you can find several - then go looking for price.

If you don't have a lot of files you could burn them to a dvd for safety factor.

Forgot to answer the question about the laptop. Yes, you can put a drive of any sort in and hook to any computer and read/write files. They have a desk model if you think you will use it a lot. Just wires and a cradle you stick the drives in.

 

[kreesdqban]

I ended up just re-installing the old MB and CPU and booting it up. Transferred all the files to the spare HDD, then installing the new MB and installing Windows from scratch.

Thanks for your help ex.