my name is michelerob and i'm trying to find out how to transfer all my files from my old computer to a new computer. I'm trying to save myself $100.

hi, michelerob, and welcome to pchf....I'm going to move this thread to the hardware thread, which is where the hardware experts tend to hang out. First, a few questions:

1. What type of operating system? (apple, windows xp, vista, etc)

2. Desktop or laptop?

3. Do both computers work?

Thanks,

v

hi valis it is a windows xp to windows xp and both machines work

desktop or laptop? If desktop, you can just pop the old hd out, and pop it in the new case, always considering the cables sets (sata vs. IDE). You will need to look at the jumper configuration on the back of the hd in the new case; those are generally 8 pins that look like this: :::: There is a jumper on them that will denote the type of drive it is to be, master, slave, or cable select. The jumper will make it look like this: ::|: or something similar, and on the hd case you will see a diagram that has m and a picture, cs and a picture, and s and a picture. If it's set to m, set the old drive up to s and connect it to the spare ide cable in the new box (trust me, there is one) and boot up and see what happens. You should see the old drive as a new drive letter, such as d or e, then just copy the files over. Don't copy the entire drive, as then you are copying your windows installation, and all hades will break loose. If it's set to CS on the new hd, you just set the old one to CS as well, make sure the main hd is set at the terminated end of the cable, and good to go. As you won't be keeping this drive in the chassis, it's not necessary to bolt it down; you can just let it rest or hang, even though that's not recommended, I've done it a few dozen times. Be sure to:

1. Unplug the machine. Very important, that.

2. Ground yourself to rid yourself of static electricity. Just touch something metal, like the case or hte power supply.

3. ASK IF YOU DON'T KNOW. This is important. If you aren't comfy with doing this, take it to a local computer shop (not a best buy or circuit city) and they'll hit you up for not $100, as this is about a 10 minute process, then copying can take as long as the data you have.

Here's a link to assist: Install Hard Drive - A guide to installing a hard drive (IDE)

again, do NOT hesitate to ask if you get confused. And btw, the static shock that you discharge to your doorknob is enough to fry a motherboard, so be sure to ground yourself. Bottom line, it's not that difficult, but if you are not comfy with cracking the case and looking under the hood, it can be intimidating.

which is what we are here for.

by the way, if they both work you can also look into getting a crossover cable and null modem and connecting them that way. May be a bit longer time wise, but definitely less invasive, as you don't have to crack the case. You just have to make the machines see themselves, which can be frustrating sometimes, which is why, for me at least, I've found it easier to physically install the hd in the new machine and copy the data that way. Either way, there's a couple options for you.

v

Hey Valisthanks for your help