About to install a new HDD and have some questions

[CyberDude]

I'm about to replace my 80GB HDD with a 250GB HDD and want to clarify a few things.

I'll be starting fresh and installing from the RR discs. My question is should I do all the window updates first and then run the ThinkVantage update utility or should I do the Thinkpads updates first then do the windows updates?

One other thing. From which version did RR allow you to choose what not to reinstall if you do a restore to factory restore? I tried it but didn't see anywhere where you specify that you want to choose what to install.

[CyberDude]

So no-one has an opinion on this?

All I want to know is after I do a clean install of XP if I should install all the TP drivers and the TP updates before I do all the Windows updates or vise-versa? Or doesn't it make any difference?

[bri]

#1: it shouldn't make a difference. for windows updates i only see patches for security and microsoft software. TP updates show thinkpad-specific drivers and thinkvantage software. i've never seen anything overlap. personally i don't update thinkvantage software anymore unless there's an obvious bug to fix; inevitably it always breaks something.

#2: i have R&R version 4 and it lets you do a custom restore from the pre-desktop area or from the recovery disks.

[CyberDude]

Thanks for replying. I have seen Intel wifi and Ethernet drivers overlap and I assume there are others like the graphics chipset. For those I'll use the TP drivers.

I too have the RR v4 but never noticed the custom restore. I'll look out for it this time when I do the install.

[noetus]

I've done this sort of restore several times and I've always updated Windows first, because it's fairly urgent on a new install when you're connected to the Internet.