Can Parallels boot pre-existing Windows install?

[NickM]

I've read a few different answers that contradict eachother.
I haven't actually installed it yet, but want to know if it will work with a Windows XP install that I did with Boot Camp.

If it can be done... how?

 

[ab2650]

Yes.

When you first run Parallels you get to choose the option to make a new drive image, or use a partition (i.e., BootCamp).

This is exactly how I have BootCamp & Parallels 4 running on my work machine; I installed via BC first, then did Parallels.

 

[MacDawg]

It is the best of both worlds and increases your flexibility

Woof, Woof - Dawg

 

[NickM]

What about drivers for XP? Will I need to use the OS X disc again if I set up a new XP image for virtual use?

 

[NickM]

Oh yeah...

I am at the point where it is asking me to point to the Boot Camped partition. Which position should I point it to?? IDE 1:0 ? IDE 1:1 ?

Also, if my pre-existing Windows install is NTFS, will I be able to read/write back and forth between Windows and OS X?

Thanks for the help...

 

[NickM]

Update:


I have Parallels running my original Boot Camp Windows XP partition.
However, the orignal link to it on my OS X desktop has disappeared.

How do I put another shortcut to that partition on my OS X desktop?

Thanks again...

 

[ab2650]

Update:


I have Parallels running my original Boot Camp Windows XP partition.
However, the orignal link to it on my OS X desktop has disappeared.

How do I put another shortcut to that partition on my OS X desktop?

Thanks again...

You've probably figured it out by now, but when you launch Parallels it needs to read/write to that partition... So it unmounts it from the OS X side. As soon as you shut down your virtual machine the Boot Camp partition will show up on your desktop again.