|
|
January
20th, 2005 - The excitement of getting
a new computer running Microsoft Windows
XP quickly fades once you realize the
volume of important files saved on your
old computer.
Fortunately, there are several ways to
transfer data, programs and settings.
But no method is hassle-free.
Start by removing programs from your old
computer that you never use. For this
task, use Windows Disk Cleanup. Click
Start, Programs, Accessories and then,
Disk Cleanup.
Scan your old computer's hard drive for
viruses, Trojans and adware. Defrag your
old hard drive, too. When you're done,
disconnect it from the Internet and disable
any programs running in the background.
By far, the easiest way to transfer information
from an old computer to a new one is by
using your existing home network. You
put both computers on the network, share
each of the computer's hard drives, and
copy files to and fro.
Better yet, use the Files and Settings
Transfer Wizard found in Windows XP. It
transfers data and Windows settings, such
as wallpaper, colors, sounds, mail and
contacts for Outlook and Outlook Express,
Internet bookmarks and security settings.
It does not transfer programs, though.
The wizard walks you through the entire
process. You can transfer settings, data
and folders, or a select few. You'll have
to reinstall programs, such as Microsoft
Word, onto your new computer, using the
programs' installation discs.
If you don't have a home network, you
can still connect the two computers. Ethernet
crossover cables and Universal Serial
Bus cables are fast methods. You could
also use a parallel or serial cable, but
data transfer would be much slower.
In most cases, you'll need a third-party
program to go along with the cables. The
best-known program for migrating data
is Alohabob PC Relocator Ultra Control
( www.eisenworld.com
; $69.95). It includes a USB cable to
connect the two computers. Alohabob transfers
programs, in addition to data, files and
Windows settings.
Move Me ( www.spearit.com
; $39.95) also handles a full move. IntelliMover
( www.detto.com/intellimover;
$49.95) and Desktop DNA Professional (
http://ca.miramar.com;
$39) move data and settings but will not
transfer programs. IntelliMover includes
cables.
If this sounds daunting, take it to a
shop. The store where the computer was
bought might cut you a deal. Expect to
pay less than $100.
Gannett News Service
Document CHI0000020050204e11k0006u
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Detto
Technologies won
Consumer Product
of the Year! go
>
|
|
|
|
|
|
