I have an "older" Windows XP Professional computer comprised of P4 3.0 Ghz processor, 1.5 gig of memory, Asus motherboard, and a 80GB HDD for main driver and a 320 GB HDD for storage of pics, games, etc. I recently purchased a 2.0 TB external HDD on black friday and would like build a new mini-HTPC that will process newer games and movies. I would like to convert my current PC to a Windows Home Server media computer and use the current HDDs and the new external HDD. The system still works fairly well, but just can not keep up with the games and movies that I would like to play on it. I would like to not "waste" the current PC and just add an OEM version of Windows Home Server and begin storing some movie rips (allow mymovies apps to be used) and provide automatic backup for other PCs on my home network. Basically, I am wondering how this would be done and some of the details. Please look at the following questions:
1. Can I load WHS on the external HDD 2.0 TB or should I install on one of the internal HDDs?
2. I imagine I have to wipe the HDDs out and convert to another PC (programs, etc.) as once WHS is installed; the programs are no longer assessible.
3. Does WHS save on duplicate drives - Should I have another 2.0 TB HDD to provide a mirror of information or how would that work?
4. Any other issues in converting a PC to a WHS server - seems better than throwing away a system that still works and is "decent".
5. Does WHS have a complete disc image for each connect PC to save programs, etc. for a new HDD?
Thanks for any input or suggestions.
1. Can I load WHS on the external HDD 2.0 TB or should I install on one of the internal HDDs?
2. I imagine I have to wipe the HDDs out and convert to another PC (programs, etc.) as once WHS is installed; the programs are no longer assessible.
3. Does WHS save on duplicate drives - Should I have another 2.0 TB HDD to provide a mirror of information or how would that work?
4. Any other issues in converting a PC to a WHS server - seems better than throwing away a system that still works and is "decent".
5. Does WHS have a complete disc image for each connect PC to save programs, etc. for a new HDD?
Thanks for any input or suggestions.