BOOTMGR

[DevilDawgJJ]

So I have a Optiplex 780 Core 2 Quad 2.83GHz 4GB RAM 320GB HDD DVDRW SFF PC (Win 7 Pro) that I bought as a refurb about 3 1/2yrs ago. It came pre installed with Win 7 and now I'm locked out of my computer...with no disk. I was screwing around with it because of McAfee Instead of buying Win 7 outright and re-installing which is $100, though I'd just add it to new/old stock.

I'm looking to buy another refurb. This one to be precise.

http://www.microcenter.com/product/467346/6300_Desktop_Computer_Off_Lease_Refurbished

I did have a couple of questions. Can I plug my old HD into this system (even thought it's locked, or whatever the terminology is)? Before I got the BOOTMGR prompt, I was able to download all the files I wanted to my external HD (Thank GOD!)...so I don't care if the files are lost, I just was to use as a slave. Can I even format it??

Also, I wanted to take out the 4GB of RAM and use. Is it just plug and play? The HP supports up to 16GB.

I only use my PC for internet browsing and word/excel/adobe. Anyone have reccomendations where I wouldn't need to spend $250??

Thank you to moond0ggie for your guidance and help thus far!!

[SmokieBear]

1)Yes you can reformat the HD and make it a slave.
2)Look the specs on the refurb for memory type, IE ddr 2, 3 184 pin or 240 pin and compare it to what your have on hand.
3) prolly get by with a cheaper rig from frys I think for $180 or less.