How to Transfer Outlook Settings From a Dead Computer to Another

Data on a hard drive can be transferred to another computer.

Computers that crash and no longer function may have data stored on the hard drive, such as Outlook settings or preferences that are stored in files on the system. If the hard drive of the dead computer is still functional, you will be able to transfer files to another computer. You can do this by first connecting the hard drive from the dead computer to a new or replacement computer.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver

Instructions

Connect Old Hard Drive

1. Unplug the power cord from the computer or wall outlet. Remove the screws that are used to secure the side panel to the dead computer with the screwdriver. Take the side panel off and set it aside.

2. Remove the power cable and data cable from the hard drive. Remove the screws that are used to secure the hard drive to the mount in the case. Pull the hard drive out of the case and then disconnect the other end of the data cable from the motherboard.

3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 on the new or replacement computer.

4. Plug one end of the data cable in step 2 to the motherboard. Plug the other end of the data cable into the old hard drive. Connect a power cable from the power supply to the hard drive.

5. Plug the power cord back into the computer or wall outlet. Turn the computer on and wait for the operating system to load.

Transfer Outlook Profile

1. Click the "Start" button and then select the "Computer" or "My Computer" option. Double-click on the drive letter for the old hard drive.

2. Double-click the Documents and Settings folder. Find and then double-click on the user name for the settings that need to be transferred. Double-click the Local Settings folder. Double-click the Application Data folder, go into the Microsoft folder and then the Outlook folder.

3. Right-click the .pst file in the folder and then select the "Copy" option from the context menu. Navigate to the "C:\Documents and Settings\username\Local Settings\Application Data\Microsoft\Outlook" folder. Click the "Edit" drop-down and then select the "Paste" option.

4. Double-click the "Outlook" icon on the desktop to start the program. Click the "File" drop-down and select "Open." Click the "Outlook Data File" option.

5. Select the .pst file that you transferred in step 3 and then click the "OK" button.

Tips & Warnings

• The jumper on the back of the old hard drive may need to be changed to the "slave" setting before connecting it to the new or replacement computer.

References

• HelpWithPCs.com: Install Hard Drive
• MIcrosoft: Copy the Outlook folder structure to another computer