How much data is involved ? If it's not a lot using a Usb stick to transfer it would be an easy way.

 

I don't have the stick but I suppose I could transfer files to a couple of CDs... How would I then accomplish the transfer of my data, formats, etc.? Would I simply go to the "Program Files" and copy them and then transfer them to my new computer? Would the file architecture need to be identical for the program to then work on the new computer?

Would those file be transferred before or after the actual Program is transferred?

Really, I was hoping to avoid all of these variations and simply transfer the files via that cable I reference in my original post. That's my preference. So, I reiterate my original question regarding the use of a single monitor with two computers. Can it be done? And how?

 

To answer your question, yes however it will cost way more than a usb flash drive. You would need a kvm switch to run 2 systems with one monitor, mouse, etc. The cost of one of those is approx $35. The cost of a usb flash drive 16gig is $16.

While the answer is yes, it is NOT cost effective.

In short either use the flash drive to transfer data, burn it to a dvd disk [cheapest method of all] or borrow a second monitor.

Note when you copy/burn files to a dvd or cd, those files are now read only. Not a big deal however you would have to change the file attribute after you copy them to the new machine.
Using a flash drive, you do not have the read only issue.

 

Another [no cost or very low cost] option would be to use something like google drive, drop box, or other online storage. Copy your data files to google drive and copy them back to your new system. Done.

 

You would have to re-install programs onto the new Windows 7 computer, you can only transfer data files like pictures, photos etc.

I must admit putting them onto 'the cloud' like crjdriver suggested is a great idea, easy to do and totally free too.

To use the 'cable' would be quite involved using just one monitor plus you would have to set up file sharing as well. (I'm assuming it's a 'crossover cable', yes ?).

 

Can you not just plug the monitor into the computer you are using at that given time? You can plug in and unplug the monitor while the computer is running.

On the other hand you should just buy a USB stick or USB hard drive. Not only would it make transferring the data easier but you'd then have a backup drive. I assume you care about your data and don't want to lose it? Is so you must have a backup.

 

I must admit putting them onto 'the cloud' like crjdriver suggested is a great idea, easy to do and totally free too.

That is why they pay me the big bucks

 

The CD copy option sound like it would be the easiest for me... I still have a question about the timing of my transfer steps. Do I copy all of my programs onto the new machine and... then what? It's not clear to me what I do with the XP files I now have on CD and when I do it in the transfer process?

Also, will the monitor I have on my XP automatically work on the w7 machine (plug-n-play)?

 

Yes, monitors just work as long as the connections match.

You can't copy programs. You need to reinstall them from the discs or download them if they are available for download. You also need to make sure they are compatible with Windows 7.

To restore your data files that you copy to CD, simply copy and paste them into the folders you want them in, ie. Documents, Pictures, Music, etc.

 

1 Copy data files to cd/dvd; only data files not program files
2 Insert disk into new computer
3 Copy the data files to whatever folder you want. Most likely the "My Documents" folder however it can to to whatever you want.
4 The files are now read only however to change ie let you make changes to the files, simply highlight and right click>proprieties. Remove the read only checkmark. Done.

If you use any of the other methods ie flash drive, cloud drive, etc, you do not have to change any attributes.

 

Let me make certain I understand what you have described. And I'll give you an example of the files I am most concerned about. I have developed an OpenOffice spreadsheet that is quite large and complex. Associated with that spreadsheet there are many custom macros that I developed and much custom formatting that resides someplace deep in the OpenOffice file structure. I have no idea where because the files are not entitled with anything as simple as "macros". I understand that I cannot copy the actual OpenOffice suite (which includes the spreadsheet) to the w7 machine BUT I really want to transfer those spreadsheet related files.

Now, let's assume I have downloaded the same version of OpenOffice on my new w7 machine. Do I simply copy everything that is in the OpenOffice files in my XP machine and tell the computer to replace the new files that I just downloaded with the old files from my XP machine?

 

No, don't copy the entire OpenOffice folder. The file you want is likely saved in your My Documents folder. Then see Scripts and Templates here for paths to other files you may need https://wiki.documentfoundation.org/UserProfile
You may want the entire User folder.

Or in OpenOffice go to Tools -> Macros -> Organize Macros -> LibreOffice Basic. Then go to Organizer and then Export.

 

Thanks to all for the advice (and patience). I'm gonna re-think this transition. My XP computer still works adequately for what I do and the risk of losing the utility of my spreadsheet isn't worth the benefits of transitioning to w7.

 

My husband still uses his old XP and Windows 2000 computers, off the internet of course, to do work with his old programs.

He goes on the internet with his Win 7 desktop and netbook.

 

That is why they pay me the big bucks

I believe you. I really do.

I used to Email important files to myself as Hotmail attachments, never got paid for it though.