Kept e1705/7800--what's next?

All right, after searching and experimenting I have decided to give in and hold on to my current config of e1705 w/ 7800 card. Whoo!

This is what I'd like to do next. Three steps:

[1] Uninstall trialware & clean up registry w/ System Mechanic 6
Any effective methods? Anything to stay away from uninstalling?

[2] Update drivers & programs
Which updates do you recommend? What to avoid updating?

[3] Image current HD state w/ Acronis TrueImage Home Edition
The image will be my own "restore" point, after that of Dell's that carrier crap-ware.

[4] Install all of my programs & games
How do I prepare my machine for running games (esp. old ones like C&C-RA1)?

The above is my complex blueprint to prep-ping the e1705 for use as a DTR. Please comment with details on my plan. I think I am computer literate enough to know what I'm doing but am always surprised when I find out that there's more to learn about these processes. So there's always that wonder of "what if" and "did I miss anything?"

In regard to imaging the HD, I don't know if it would be best to image before or after installing games/programs. What do you think?

 

You can of course image both before and after. I personally turn off system restore if I have an image I can throw back on there. Perhaps you should look at this thread.

 

if you're going to game, you need to do a reformat/reinstall of your OS

 

yea, thats what I did, and it's great. THough, this weekend my friend is hopefully going to reformat mine again cause he knows some better tricks and such.

 

Here's a little guide, just off the top of my head.

1. Reformat
2. Install drivers from CD or Thumbdrive. Don't forget sound drivers. Get Video Driver from TweaksRUs. Install Soundblaster Upgrade if purchased.
3. Install AVG, Spybot, Adaware.
4. Get Microsoft Updates.
5. Install I8kfangui 3.0, Everest, Real Alternative, QuickTime Alternative, Shockwave Player, Java, Firefox, 3dMark05, 3dMark06, WinRAR, DAMNNFO, Fraps, SisSandraLite, Winamp, Codec Pack All In One, CCleaner, Drivercleaner, TweakUI....
6. Install Games, reload Music.

 

Awesome advice...thanks a bunch guys! If I am to go with my own list, where would I place Windows Updates on that list?

 

Acolyte, where would you fit the "imaging" step (e.g. that of Acronis' True Image)?

If you were to image, wouldn't it be best to do it right after drivers/updates since programs/games may come with your taste/preference/fashion and go, and also their versions constantly change? I think it would make more sense to install a program from scratch every time you re-load a fresh image because every time you do install it from, it'll always be a new version that's out...yes/no?

edit: Could someone also comment on a HD re-format vs. WinXP uninstall/clean from trial/demos procedure? What are pros/cons for each?

 

Thanks! Nice guide!

But for a novice, is there a more in-depth guide to "prepare your brand new E1705"?

 

detailed steps to reformat and reinstall are in the sticky post at the top of this forum