📎 AI Summary:
The original poster is attempting to run Windows 7 from an external USB hard drive but encounters boot issues, including boot repair errors related to Winload.exe and Bootmgr. They suspect the problem may be due to the drive being recognized differently when connected via IDE versus USB, and are seeking solutions to successfully boot Windows 7 externally. After receiving some suggesting hints, they mention purchasing a new cable, indicating they are troubleshooting hardware connections to resolve the issue. Overall, the thread reflects a user actively experimenting with running Windows 7 externally and facing technical hurdles with boot configurations.

OneThatWalks

New Member
Joined
Dec 4, 2009
Messages
4
Thread Author #1
Hello,
Recently I received Windows 7 and had no intentions of replacing my vista anytime soon. So, I decided to fire up an external 300 gb usb hard drive. (Note: This drive was originally in a lap top taht broke so I took it out and got an enclosure for it, It was 320 gb but that doesnt matter.) I was going to see if Windows allowed me to install Win 7 on a portable hard drive, and as I expected It did not work... So I took it out of the enclosure and hooked it up in my computer. The reason I wanted to install externally was because I only have 1 data transfer cable.

Specs:
Dell inspiron 530
serial ATA- right angle data cable

Well I had to unplug my original drive in the process. I installed 7 on the drive and booted just fine and set up win 7. Next I put the drive back in the enclosure and Changed my bios and I got to the loading screen of 7 and it fails... And tells me to go and repair. So I repaired it a good 3 times... Most the problems were occuring in Winload.exe and/or bootmgr...

So theres the situation
Here is what I think, I believe that When I installed it it recognized That it was attached in the IDE and wants that when I use it...
If so Is there any fix

next thought,
I think I noticed when I had it plugged into my computer motherboard. The drive was labeled F:
and when in usb mode it is labled H:


I would appreciate A Soloution for this problem, no matter the outcome.
I may also just run over to best buy and get a new cable anyway but I want to try this.

I have googled around everywhere, and There hasn't been a soloution. I have not heard of very many people acheiving this either.

Thanks,
OneThatWalks

Java( In proccess of learning) , php, html - programmer
 

OneThatWalks

New Member
Joined
Dec 4, 2009
Messages
4
Thread Author #2
alright thanks, I went and got a cable from best buy.