Windows 7 fresh install on new drive

[CJNetrider]

Hi, new to the forums so apologies in advance if I am going over old ground with some of my post.
I have recently purchased a T60 and want to install Windows 7 ensuring I have everything in the right order and working correctly. The specs are currently are..

T60 model 2008 CTO
XP Pro SP 3
Pheonix BIOS (04/01/10)
3GB DDR2
ATI X1400
100GB Hitachi 7200rpm

I've already run the Win7 upgrade advisor and it reports my system is compatible. Anyway, I decided to go down the path of a full fresh install as this way I can keep the XP installation intact on the original drive. For the Win7 installation I’ll be using a full retail version of HP and new Western Digital Scorpio Black 320GB that I managed to pick up half price today! (I guess this is my first question.. The drive will be ok for the T60 yes)?

Regarding the installation I have a few questions that I would appreciate any help/advise on.

1) Having read several different versions on installing Win7 on a T60, would you agree that the method used on the Levono support site is the best? I don't mind spending time if it means getting everything right including drivers, programs, etc, etc. I think I read on these forums somewhere that someone installed Win7 on a new drive by first installing Win 7 and then running the Levono System Upgrade Program having little if any problems. That would be good!

2) Do I need to update the BIOS before proceeding with the installation as I’ve read mentioned by others? or is this required in certain situations only?

3) During the install does Win7 create unnecessary partitions? if so can they be avoided?

Lastly, if anyone could point me in the right direction re something I have overlooked, please could you let me know.

Many thanks and great forum!!

[SHoTTa35]

(Scorpio drive is compatible)

1) Install Windows 7, Do Windows Update (it might find drivers for some of your hardware also, you can choose to install those or not as they are from Lenovo, just aren't the newest, maybe 1 version back). Install System Update and install all the Lenovo stuff that you want, don't instal every single one just for the hell of it!

2) I would do a BIOS update. They say if you aren't having any issues then you don't need to update but since this is a new OS that BIOS updates fix issues with then might as well so you NEVER get the problems they fix.

3) Windows creates a small 100MB partition to store boot recovery files incase your Windows is currupt. That way it can boot and try to fix things without needing your Windows DVD. If your 320GB HDD can't spare 100MB of space then you need to buy a bigger HDD

I had Windows 7 (and Vista) running on a T60 (2007-66U from my signature) and it was great. I don't use my system as a super power house so it worked great for me and I much rathered the little changes that Windows 7 brought over the age old XP. (only got a T410 cuz it was cheap as i def don't need the Core i5 in this thing).

[CJNetrider]

Hi Shotta and thanks for the quick reply/help!

Re the BIOS update I knew I should have added this in my original post but what is the best way to go about it?
I wont be using this as a power house either so hopefully all will go as smooth as it did for you.

Thanks again for the help!!

[CJNetrider]

Scrap last post.. I just returned from work and after checking the BIOS is showing as version 2.26, which according to the Levono Support site is the most recent.
Alas, off to a good start! And now the fun part, Installation time!! (fingers and everything crossed)!