Installing Windows on a new HDD

[TSN79]

Just bought a new HDD. It's faster than my old one so I want to run Windows from it. Can I just install Windows on it without it causing trouble with the Windows version on my old drive?

 

[mgb_phys]

Safest way is to remove your old drive and install windows on the new one.
Then connect your old drive as a second drive, that way you can't accidentally overwrite it.

 

[TSN79]

But I have data on the old drive which I eventually want to transfer to the new one. Is this possible;
1) Format new drive
2) Transfer data to new drive
3) Delete old drive
4) Install XP on new drive

Will this cause me trouble?

 

[mgb_phys]

Yes, the install XP part will erase the new drive.
The correct sequence is :
1, Remove old drive - put safely away
2, Insert new drive and install windows
3, Put old drive in as 2nd drive (check jumpers if it's an IDE ) and configure bios
4, Start windows and copy data from drive D: (or E:) to your new drive C:
5, Remove old drive or keep it as a backup

You could skip 1, and leave the old drive in place as the second drive while you do this - but it does invite a visit from Mr Oops!