Have you tried Laplink PCMover? I use it when I feel lazy. It does require you have an OS on the new machine first, and it has to be the same or newer than the old machine's. That should not be a problem with HP if you have the restoring CDs. The software then proceeds to analyze your old machine and then ask you what you want to move over. I find that the simple programs move fine, but some programs need reactivation (e.g. Microsoft Office). Still, it saves a lot of human time compared to a re-install. I would use a registry cleaner or two before I start the process, though.
On the other hand, there is nothing better than a fresh install and reinstall all programs to get rid of all the baggage that even registry cleaners can't catch. Of course, I usually don't do that because there are to many programs, and too many that I cannot find install discs for.
On the third hand, I have also been lazy and used cloning software such as Acronis, especially when I can't find the original OS discs for the old machine and don't want to activate a new one. The trick is to uninstall and deactivate all machine-specific drivers before you clone, otherwise the old OS may not even boot except in safe mode.
Jack
