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    Install windows on external hard drive?

    Discussion in 'Windows OS and Software' started by DrunkMunky, Jun 10, 2006.

  1. DrunkMunky

    DrunkMunky Notebook Enthusiast

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    Like the title says, I would like to install Windows on an external hard drive. When I install it the basic way (just boot from CD then install in external), when I boot from external, I get a BSOD.
    I tried to look for guides but they all use software that are "outdated"(well when I download it, it always a newer version so the options are different and all...) so I can't really follow...
    I tried to follow this guide: http://www.ngine.de/index.jsp?pageid=4176. But i get stuck on 5) where you unpack the IN_ files (it says unable to open when I try to extract) so I gave up :( (unless someone can clear that up for me)
    Anyways, if there any way I can make the computer boot Windows from external HD? Thanks
     
    DrunkMunky, Jun 10, 2006
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  2. Mag07

    Mag07 Notebook Geek

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    Check in bios whether your computer supports booting from usb. If it does, google the error on the BSOD. Does it say "INACCESSIBLE_BOOT_DEVICE? Does it appear after or before the logon screen?
     
    Mag07, Jun 11, 2006
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  3. edabe

    edabe Notebook Enthusiast

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    Hello,

    What a coincidence, I've just played with this guide this weekend and everything was fine. I could install WinXP ME SP2 on an old 10Gb HD enclosed in a generic USB case.

    Now I have a perfect test box, just plug the disc, boot the laptop and presto!

    As for the step 5, it was ok for me, not a single error. I would suggest you to try two things:
    1. Work on the directory where 'cabarc' is located, move your .IN_ files there.
    2. Did you use WinISO or similar to extract the files from the ISO image? Maybe your .IN_ got corrupted during extraction.

    Good luck, and thanks to Emanuel for this great guide!

    edabe.

    System:
    . Dell E1505
    . Windows XP ME SP2
    . Old 10Gb Samsung enclosed on generic USB case
     
    edabe, Jun 12, 2006
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