Moving software

[lilspanisheddie]

I recently built a new computer and I have a CAD program on my my old machine. I can not find my disks and I want to put a copy on my new computer. Is there any programs that I can download to help me copy a program and all its files and move it to my new computer? Or should I upload the entire program file to web space and then download it on my new machine? Or will I run into problems because of install and registry files?

[rik148755]

Not as far as I am aware, you need to original install discs so that the all the files are placed correctly (registry etc...)

To simply copy will not work.

Someone may know a method and I would be intrigued to know, but I would say look for the discs ;)

[classicsoftware]

I once used a program called PC RELOCATOR (http://www.eisenworld.com/ProductsHome.asp?Item=2). It is a PIA, but if you don't have the disks it may be the only way to go.

[lilspanisheddie]

Thanks for the replies, that PC Relocater is exactly what I am looking for. If anyone has any other Ideas that would be great. Also, if anyone has ever used PC Relocater What are your opinions?

[Fruss Tray Ted]

Sometimes (depends on the program) copy/pasting or burning a copy and pasting will work, other times not. Try it first and buy the transfer program suggested if it doesn't. I usually copy the folder and paste it in Program Files but even that location is not always neccessary.

[Kimbo]

My "cheapo" method for moving a program without install disks...:D

I copy the folder to the new hard drive and try to open the program. Sometimes it works, but usually I find it needs other files that weren't in the original program folder (like Windows .dll or .ini files). In that case I usually get an error message saying a file can't be found so the program can't be opened. I write down that filename, find it on the old drive (making note of where it's located), and copy it to the same location on the new drive.

Also look for an associated .ini file on the old drive - sometimes they are in the program folder, other times in Windows. Your personal settings/preferences for a program are oten stored there.

There may be any number of these files to copy over before the program finally works, but as long as the error messages keep giving you filenames it's worth a try. Doesn't work with every program, but the only thing you stand to lose is some time, and the price is right. ;)

Kimbo

[Vic 970]

you could use a hdd manf setup disc to copy the whole of the old hdd over to the new hdd.

set the hdd up first then use the copy partition comand from one hdd to the other.

seagate (http://www.seagate.com/support/disc/drivers/discwiz.html) works well, even on other drives, I've used it on seagate, maxtor and samsung and found it brill.