New mobo format HD??

[Islander_47]

Hi, I'm going to install a new mobo on my existing system. Is it necessary to reformat the hard drive and reinstall the OS after changing the mobo. If so could you please give me a brief explination of why.
Thanks in advance

[Bovon]

Its generally advisable to format and start over for the best results, but first try the following. The last time you run the system before changing out the mainboard, go into device manager and highlight and remove all of the drivers that are mainboard related, chipset drivers, controllers ect. Shutdown, swap out the motherboard and boot up...Windows will detect the new chipset and will load the proper drivers. Quite often, this is all that is needed.

As always, back up and crucial files before starting because, if the drive dosn't come up stable with the new board, it may be too late to begin backing up stuff.

If the above dosn't work out good, then reformat and start over...all you have lost is a little time.

[Islander_47]

Thanks Bovon, I quess you mean the 20 or so drivers listed under "system devices" in device manager??

[Ares Dracofyre]

ive had problems with onboard sound when installing on my pre existing stuff...i recommend if u have problems reformat