Digital Bits Technology Column QnA

Question:

I recently purchased a new PC equipped with Windows Vista. I have my old PC tower only with data files in the hard drive but no monitor, keyboard, etc.  I was interested in using a USB flash drive or that Intelli-Mover program to transfer some picture / music files to my new PC. Would it still be possible to transfer this data without my old monitor / keyboard?

Answer:

While transferring files from a PC without a monitor is possible, it’s not that easy without advance planning. You’re better off doing something like the following:

1) Plug your new monitor, keyboard and mouse into your old PC.

2) Boot the PC and transfer your needed files to your USB flash drive.

3) Shut down your old PC, and plug your monitor, keyboard and mouse back in to your Vista PC.

4) Boot up your new PC, and load the files from your USB flash drive.

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• IBM server boot problem with USB hard drive
• Problems booting to a system restoration CD
• Backup to flash drive or external USB hard drive