my old rig with xp pro bit the dust so i bought a new one running vista 64. can i recover the data on the old hd by placing it in an external hd enclosure and transferring it to the new rig... is it that simple? thanx.

YES, it really is that simple. I don't think you'll have any compatibility issues (32 bit to 64 bit) since all you're saving is your user DATA. and NOT installed applications (you'll have to re-install those) Enjoy Rich Gu

You could also connect internally if you want to. No need for an enclosure unless you want one anyway. There are also USB cables that connect the the hard drive without the enclosure. Cheaper but intended for occasional use, not a regular external solution. You may need to take ownership of the files/folders on the old drive. To learn how look at the link below. http://support.microsoft.com/kb/308421

interesting reply otherhill, do i still need a working OS in the old rig to connect internally?

I guess I didn't explain myself. You remove the hard drive from your old rig and temporarily connect to the new one. You should have at least one IDE channel available. If you must disconnect an optical drive temporarily that is OK. No need to install in the case. Let it hang by the wires. Just don't allow the bottom PCB to contact metal. You may need to reset the jumper on the old drive to allow it to work. Depends on your setup. You can use multiple hard drives in your new computer too, you know. Again, it depends on your setup and if you want to keep the old rig intact.