Is it possible to install OS from external HDD?
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Thread: Is it possible to install OS from external HDD?

  1. April 12th, 2012, 10:56 PM #1
    Fuelm@n's Avatar
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    Post Is it possible to install OS from external HDD?

    Was left with a Dell MTG (5 yrs old) computer 4 months ago to fix, I hadn't had the time to fix it. I believe the HDD is bad and the internal disc player does not work and a replacement for that model runs around 130$. Looking to replace the HDD, my only option is to see if I'd be able to reinstall the OS from an external HDD.

    Thanks everyone...
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  2. April 13th, 2012, 04:09 AM #2
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    You'd have better luck with an external cd/dvd drive... But either way, you need to look in the BIOS to see what the Boot Sequence options are. Can it boot from an external source.

    You might be able to get a hard drive WITH the OS on if from Dell. They have em sitting around for warranty replacements.
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  3. April 13th, 2012, 04:51 AM #3
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    External DVD burners start at $34.99, including shipping.
    http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produc...ree%20Shipping
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  4. April 13th, 2012, 09:10 AM #4
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    Yes I meant to say installing from external cd-rom player. I can't see how to edit my post to correct my mistakes...

    I figured I'd have to change boot sequence in bios for this to work. Guess my real question should of been if I could boot from an external disc player...
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  6. April 13th, 2012, 09:20 AM #5
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    IF the BIOS supports it, it should work fine.
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  7. April 13th, 2012, 09:38 AM #6
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    Another option is to use a USB/thumb drive ,if the BIOS supports it.I have found it useful on my Netbook,since it doesn't have a cd/dvd drive and there are several online how-to's depending on Operating system.It may be a cheaper option to having to buy an external drive,unless you already have one laying around.
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  8. April 13th, 2012, 10:19 AM #7
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    Or you should be able to install Windows from another computer on the LAN:

    http://tzim.net/page-win-netinstall-en/?lang=en
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