Windows 7 clean install

Not sure of the details, but I've been told that, with two hard drives and two OS, I'll be asked at startup which OS to use. Does that sound right?

 

If you want Windows to boot both versions you must install the older version first. Have a read here and don't get consumed it is not that difficult to do:
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/install-multiple-operating-system-multiboot#1TC=windows-7


http://www.howtogeek.com/214477/how-to-dual-boot-two-or-more-versions-of-windows/

 

Thanks. The computer came with Vista, so the older system is there. I'll read those links, have to be a little later. I'll post back then.

 

Just looked briefly at these two links- that seems for sure the way to go. I like the idea of not losing my old OS, seems like idiot insurance. I'd go with a second internal drive.

So, the only issue remaining is the W7 drivers. Dell does not have them, as the computer (Inspiron 519) predates that OS and they have no incentive to produce those drivers. If I can resolve that and find a valid source, I'm good to go.

Dumb question: are drivers OS-specific, computer-specific, or manufacturer-specific? (Please don't laugh, you were in the dark at some point too, and maybe needed some guidance!)

Part of me likes the idea of pushing back against planned obsolescence. But, some call me cheap.

 

Tony D- thanks for your assistance. This is beginning to look doable. As mentioned, a second hard drive seems the way to go. Just reread your post #11 and it's not clear to me whether I need to have the drivers downloaded before using the W7 disc.

First order of business is the new drive. I've bookmarked several sources of Western Digital "blue" drives that seem reasonably priced and well regarded. Planning on 320 or 400 GB. The computer came with 400, and I'm using only about 150. Comments?

 

It doesn't matter if you download the drivers before but you need them or after doing the install of Windows but you need then either way so you might as well do them now.

 

Here's a shot inside the computer case. I see a spot for a second hard drive under the first one, both mount on edge, one above the other. There are some L-shaped metal brackets that look like mounting points for the new drive, but I think there is some sort of a bracket or cradle needed to attach the drive to the case wall. Not sure what that puppy would look like or where to get it.

 

The hard drive just fits underneath the other one with the green circuit board side facing out and you attach it with 4 screws to the frame, not other hardware is needed. And yes you need a sata cable and a molex (electrical) plug from the psu also.

 

Thanks, Rich. I would have to drill holes in the chassis to install screws anywhere in that area, as there are no screw holes anywhere near. Although I don't yet have a new drive, I assume it will be identical to the original in size and shape. If that's true, the provisions in the case will not accept the new drive without something additional or, as mentioned, some drilling, which I'm not anxious to do, worried about stray metal particles.

I am an experienced fabricator and mechanic and could make whatever piece I need from plastic, metal, or even wood, if necessary. If there is a static grounding requirement, I can take care of that if I use a non-metal cradle. I think my best bet is to have the drive in hand and determine what, if anything, is needed to mount it.

The power connection to the original drive has another plug pigtailed into the harness that matches the one in the drive, so I can use that for the new drive. (This connector looks like it may have been intended for a second DVD drive, which was optional in this chassis.) There is a spare SATA socket on the motherboard, so I think it all will work.

Looking at some 320 GB Western Digital hard drives on Ebay. I think I'm ready to pull the trigger.

 

It looks to me like there are 4 holes in the right place though the 4th is obscured by one of your circles. If I am wrong you could lay a drive down on the base using industrial strength Velcro to hold it steady.

 

Well, bottom line, one way or another I can add a hard drive. Do you have a thought about Western Digital "blue" drives?

 

Really, an opinion from a tech? Kidding, yes WD are the only hard drives I ever use and I see no difference in how they wear so blue which are the least expensive are probably what I use the most, so have no fear!

 

I agree with Rich, WD Blue drives are great. They actually tend to last longer than the black drives, and are plenty fast.

 

Once more, thanks all for the advice and assistance. Here's a summary of what I believe I need to do:

1. Buy and install the new hard drive. I'll use a 320 GB WD blue. The computer will recognize the new installation.
2. Run the MS W7 OS disc. It will have guidance on the steps I need to take.
3. Look for missing drivers. (Not exactly clear on this, perhaps the driverless programs just won't run?)
4. Download any needed drivers as per Tony D's advice in post #11.
5. On booting up, the computer will give me a choice of which OS to use, Vista or W7.

Please correct me if my understanding is wrong or incomplete. Looks like, with the forum's help, I may be able to pull this off. The tech at the local Staples store was most dismissive about my "obsolete" computer (which came from their store) and suggested junking it in favor of a new one- which after just a few years would itself become obsolete!

 

With a new hard drive and new Windows install, you buy yourself some time before worrying about a new computer and the steps are spot on so thanks the Staples sales person for advice and proceed forward! How much time well at least a year and maybe 2, hard to say on an older pc but it is certainly worth doing.

 

Much appreciated. One (more!) question- I see several Ebay offers for WD 320 GB Blue drives, various part or model numbers. What other specs do I need to know?

 

If you r buying on eBay make sure they are new is all....some believe cache is important and they run from 8-64 meg cache where the higher is better...make sure they are new and not refurbished. So 320 gb newq with 32 meg and 64 meg cache would be the most desireable.

 

I think 8 megs will be all I need, I read the specs for my computer and it looks like it has 2 megs in the hard drive now. As a cheapskate (or, frugal consumer), I don't want to pay for something I likely don't need. I'm not into gaming or video editing.

When I have the new drive in hand, I'll post back. There looks to be a spare power cable, but I'll need the data cable to connect to the motherboard, which has a spare port.