Updating PC (already have components)

[amplusquem]

Hi there,

I am updating my PC and bought a new case, power supply, and video card. I was wondering what would be the best way to transfer all the components out of my old case (mobo, ram, processor, etc) into the new case. Should I just take the mobo out with all the components connected and put it in the new case, reconnect the IDE cables to the hdd and drives and everything will work? Or do I have to take everything apart and put it back together in the new case? Do I have to reformat my hdd (I hope not)? :confused:

Thanks for the help,
Matt :cool:

[BobbyD1120]

personally I woudl disconnect everything all cards (video, etc) from the MB and all cables and then CAREFULLY remove it from the "old case" and put it into the new case. The remount the MB, drives, etc into the new case and then reconnect everything.

No you should not have to reformat your drive if you are just moving it from one case to another. As long as you are using the same MB and everything it should come right back up for you. then you may need to just install the drivers for the new hardware you are putting in like the video card.

[amplusquem]

Thanks for the help!

Will it damage the computer though if I do leave the processor and memory connected to the motherboard? (I'm not a guru at building PC's and would rather have one less step that I could I mess up on :p )

[Planenutok]

I would remove your cards. Leaving the cpu and ram in shouldnt be a problem. Just make sure all your standoffs are right in the new case.

[BobbyD1120]

Thanks for the help!

Will it damage the computer though if I do leave the processor and memory connected to the motherboard? (I'm not a guru at building PC's and would rather have one less step that I could I mess up on :p )

no, it will not damge the processor if you leave it connected. Actually I think it is better to leave it connected due to the fact of the heatsink/thermal paste that may be have applied. If im correct thermal paste is not meant to be messed with after it is applied. So if you install the heatsink onto the processor and then take it back off you should reapply the thermal paste.

[flanzig1]

Also, remember to pop out the I/O sheild from the old case and reuse it in the new one.

[amplusquem]

Hi guys,

Thanks so much for your help. Turns out I didn't plug in the second part of the power supply (with 4 pins) to the mobo. Oops :rolleyes: Anyways, thanks for getting me going and giving me the advice, couldn't of done it without ya.