Many of us have a new computer thrust upon us: we hold out on upgrading until the old one crashes. For those fortunate enough to plan ahead and buy a new computer before the old one abruptly expires, there's still the little issue of what to do with all your data - your files, documents, photos, music, etc. And what about all those programs and games you've downloaded or purchased, but can no longer find the installer files or CDs?
If it's time to upgrade the PC, you've got a few options for bringing along the digital stuff you still want in your older model:
1.
Windows Easy Transfer. This is a Microsoft tool for moving files, folders, email settings and contacts, Windows settings, program files, etc. You can use it to move data to an external drive, networked computer or to your new PC via a USB cord.
2.
Laplink's PCMover. For $39, PCMover can handle PC-to-PC transfers and PC-to-Intel-based-Macs. If things go awry, you can "undo" your migration with just a click. Pay $59 for PCMover Pro and they'll throw in a USB cable and some more transfer options.
3.
Data Drive Thru's Tornado. This is one of the few hardware based solutions on the market. It is a two-prong USB cable with embedded PC transfer software. You connect your two PCs, and the software runs off the USB device, allowing you to choose the files and applications you wish to move. Cost: $49.
4.
Detto Technology's IntelliMover. The $49 program includes a USB cable for transferring files. It also moves Internet bookmarks, desktop short cuts, e-mail settings, and more.
Those are PC-to-PC utilities. Mac users can avail themselves to the "
Migration Assistant" tool included in their operating system.
A few things to keep in mind. Even though programs suggest they'll transfer everything, there are always exceptions. Some files may not make the journey (usually very obscure software titles or games). If you're migrating data from an XP system to a Vista system, you'll likely find some programs won't be supported in Vista. Also, simply copying data yourself onto a DVD or external drive won't work - at least for applications. Trust me, I tried this and a number of applications wouldn't migrate because I was missing compontents that were stored in folders I hadn't copied. (Of course, by the time I found this out I had already "safely" deleted my old hard drive - with a hammer.)
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Photo via Wiki Commons.
Print | posted @ Wednesday, May 27, 2009 1:39 AM