I have a brand new Windows 7 to install but I'd like to do it alongside my existing XP. I have an empty HDD that I'd like to put it on. My question is whether I will get a choice as to which OS I want during start up. I know (I think) that if both OS were on the same HDD then I would, but what if they are on different HDD? I assume that it will depend on the boot order in BIOS. Is there a way to give me the choice I'm after? The PC is used by the whole family and some wish to cling to XP! I too would like to test Windows 7 before committing to it. Thanks in advance.

Just install Windows 7 on the new HDD and bootmgr will handle the booting, i.e. boot.ini (WinXP) will be negated by bootmgr (Win7).

Many thanks for the reply. Forgive my ignorance, but will I therefore get a choice, regardless of HDD priority in the set up? I've not yet used Windows 7 but assume bootmgr is the key here!

You will get a choice! Changes can be made using built-in programs but it’s probably best to download EasyBCD, scroll down here http://neosmart.net/dl.php?id=1 and get the instructions here http://neosmart.net/wiki/display/EB... I don't think the program will work in a sole XP environment so it’s probably best to wait until Win7 is installed and install it in Win7.

I'm deeply grateful to you - many thanks!