Importance

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Abstract

A computer executable program method for automating the upgrade of a storage medium, such as a disk drive, in a computer system is disclosed. The computer based method is preferably implemented with a series of computer-executable instructions stored on a computer-readable medium, such as a magnetic disk or CD-ROM. When executed on a computer, the program method automatically performs the series of operations needed to configure, partition and format the upgrade disk drive. The method also provides the option of adjusting system parameters so as to account for any changes to logical device designations resulting from the installation of the upgrade disk drive. Once installed, the program method optionally provides the user with the option of utilizing the upgrade disk drive as the new system boot device, or as a secondary/slave device. If the upgrade drive is to be used merely as a secondary drive, the program method can automatically transfer data and/or application files from the existing drive to the upgrade drive. If the upgrade drive is to be used as the new system boot device, the program method will automatically transfer operating system files from the preexisting drive to the upgrade drive, as well as any desired data and/or application files. Also, if the upgrade drive is to be used as the system boot drive, the method will provide the user with options for setting the appropriate system parameters. Thus, the upgrade drive can be designated as the boot drive by manipulating the appropriate jumper and cable settings, or the necessary changes can be invoked under the automatic control of the computer. Also, at the completion of the installation, the program method can be used to remove any transferred files from the preexisting drive, thereby freeing up storage space on that device.

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First Claim