X21 replace HDD questions

[v_c]

Hi,
My X21 has the original drive, which I suspect is on its last legs due to it's age. Its also low-performance, so i'd like to replace it with a newer/faster drive.

My problem is that I don't have any CD drive for the X21, or the Win2000 disk.

So I guess the only way to get the OS up and running on a new HDD is to cloning the existing drive. I think I should clone it ASAP while it is still working/functional. I see that there is a cloning FAQ on this forum, so I will research the method myself.

But before I spend money on a drive & adaptor, I just want to double-check that everything will be possible:
-Remove existing drive and clone it (using another computer, and external adaptor/hub)
-Copy the clone image onto the new drive (using the external adaptor/hub)
-Insert new drive into X21
-Boot up, everything ok?

Does that sound possible? Are there any problems or precautions I need to be aware of?

Thanks,

[sjthinkpader]

Most cloning programs come on CD. Best is to have an USB CD drive. I made one from a Ultrabay drive, stripped off the caddy parts, and bought an USB slim housing.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ... 0304696876

I normally use an AC adapter with it just to make sure it has enough power. Other methods include using a full dock with a Ultrabay or a A30/31 that has two Ultrabays and use one or two HDD trays.

I have a X30 and no Media Slice. And its HDD was cloned like this.

Most older computers are not sensitive to how you clone the drives. From T43/R52 generation (may be X41 too), the new HDD must be in the HDD slot for the process to work.

[v_c]

Thanks for reply, much obliged.

I would like to do it without a CD drive, as I have already purchased one only to find it doesnt work with the X21, so I cant really afford to purchase another.

So this is why I would like to do it with another computer, using the external adaptor/hub to clone the drives.

[sjthinkpader]

Understand,

many years ago, when I didn't have so much Thinkpad stuff; I used two of these 3.5 to 2.5 inch IDE adapters and clone drives on desktop computers:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vi ... 0283971120

[thebigarniedog]

If you have a second laptop (in my case a T40) load up your operating system and other disc programs on the T40 then remove the HDD (obviously with everything powered off) from the T40 and insert it in you X21. Thats how I loaded everything on my X20.