Using old HDD for new build - format it first?

[ymsbrocks]

I am doing my first PC Build and want to use a WD 250G HDD from my old PC. This will be the sole HDD on the new build (at least for now). I have backed up everything i need to an external drive. Should i format it before removing it or wait until its in the new machine. I am thinking i should wipe it now as i would like to start fresh. Which way should i go?

Also, I am not too famliar with disk partitioning. I imagine i do it when i intall XP? any insight here? Thanks in advance!

 

[Hefemeister]

just format the drive in the new build as part of the xp install.

 

[ymsbrocks]

just format the drive in the new build as part of the xp install.

ok thanks. I wasn't sure if i would have that option during the XP install. will it ask me about partitioning? is that something i should do?

 

[Hefemeister]

i generally do not partition my drives because I use multiple drives with a wd raptor for my OS and and programs. Many people like to partition using one partition for the os and such and the other partition for data. this options makes reinstalls much easier. You can choose to partition in the xp setup. Something around 60gb should be fine fo the os with the other for data if that is what you want to do.

 

[ymsbrocks]

I also have a 40G maxtor laying around. would it be a good option to use it for the OS and programs and use the 250 for data?