[RESOLVED] Retrieving Data !

[TechFobe]

Hi All,
Installed a second disk as a slave in order to copy
the data across. The slave disk is running FAT 32 with XP.
The primary disk is NTFS with Win XP SP2.

The slave disk won't boot on its own so i'm
trying to copy about 5-8gb worth of mp3's onto the first disk
prior to wiping the disk and installing a fresh o/s.

The problem: xp see's the slave disk and recommends initialising
the disk before its available for use. I'm concerned this
action will wipe out the information on the
disk.

How can I get the information off. The CONVERT command
indicates that it leaves the data in tact but I'm extremely
uncomfortable actioning this command before getting feedback...
There's no backup of the files I'm trying to retrieve.

I believe the slave disk was originally a
win 98 system which was updated to win xp.

Another family friend problem..
Thanks.
TF

[TechFobe]

Will xp allow the information to be retrievable if only the CONVERT command
is action ?

[Undertaker02]

How is the HDD installed..

I used to just set the hdd up on the secondary IDE port (where the optical drives cd/dvd etc live).. basicly removing the current devices. I never had such requests from XP when I did this.. Could it be that you have it on the Primary IDE port and is designated as cable select and you existing drive is MAster.. (not sure here)

XP WILL READ THE HDD.. YOU DONT NEED TO CONVERT THE FILE SYSTEM..
and having used the Convert command numerous times in the past.. I have never had a problem. My Caution is if you have a power outage..I expect.. will cause serious problems..

[TechFobe]

Hi Undertaker,
Attached the disk on the same ide cable as the primary drive and not the secondary IDE cable as you've suggested. It's probably something as simple as that.

I'll try it later and let you know.

Thanks.
TF.

[TechFobe]

Worked fine...thanks..