The last HD I installed was a Western Digital. It came with software that made installing the new drive in whatever configuration I wanted very easy. In my case it automatically made the new drive the 'C' drive and the old drive became the "D" drive with all the files transferred to the "C" drive. Other HD manufacturers probably have similar software. I previously had used Norton's "Ghost" for HD replacements and still use it for complete backups from 'C' to 'D'.

I did not have to reactivate XP when I changed the HD.

I went to WD hard drives a couple of years ago and have not had any problems at all. WD hard drives are frequently on sale and/or offer rebates.

Previously I used Maxtor and Seagate drives without any problems.

Your selection might come down to the warrenty on the HD.

Tom Mayer

-----Original Message-----
From: srs <[log in to unmask]>
Sent: Feb 21, 2005 7:20 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [PCBUILD] Hard drive replacement

Hello All, through various tests performed on my pc, it has been brought to
my attention that may maxtor hd is beginning to fail.  it is still operating
at present. i am in the process of searching for a new hd for replacement. i
upgraded to XP home from ME. will i need to purchase complete version of xp?
 also any suggestions on backup procedures? suggestions for hd?  thanx,
stephen r stanfield

         PCBUILD maintains hundreds of useful files for download
                     visit our download web page at:
                  http://freepctech.com/downloads.shtml

                         PCBUILD's List Owners:
                      Bob Wright<[log in to unmask]>
                       Drew Dunn<[log in to unmask]>