Cathy:
Swapping the hard drive from your other machine might work (assuming
that it is compatible with the new computer's BIOS), but getting Windows
to forget the old machine and learn about the new one will be a
challenge. I've been through several motherboard upgrades, and usually
end up doing a fresh install. There is also a legal question involved --
the MicroSoft EULA restricts the installation to only one computer.
OK, assuming that the above questions do not create a problem, I'd still
hold back on the hard drive swap. Sooner or later, you're going to need
a floppy drive. Just how dead is it? Does the light come on? Does it
make grinding sounds? It may just be that the data connection got
reversed when the power supply was replaced (been there, done that), or
that the power connector is not fully seated. Or it may be that the
deaths of the floppy and the power supply are related. If the drive is
as dead as Monty Python's parrot, new ones can be had for $15 or so, and
a replacement data cable for a few dollars more.
HTH
Carroll Grigsby


Catherine Williamson wrote:
>
> I am grateful for all your advice. My big problem is that I can't boot
> with a floppy coz the floppy won't work, tho it worked before the power
> supply burnt up. So I can't get to DOS.
> The connections must be right mustn't they?? The
> floppy worked before. Is there some other way to install Windows?
> Would it work if I put the HD of my own computer (which has Windows)
> into this computer?
>
> Cathy

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