Cliff and lukitoh,
You are absolutely right about hardware dependent codes. I forgot that my operation was a mere hard disk upgrade (larger hard disk) in THE SAME laptop. Not surprising that I didn't have any troubles. Obviously cloning is not a good solution for Scott. However... a 'relocator' of applications, settings and costumizations (instead of a cloning) could be interesting to check out. See, for example, this page: http://www.alohabob.com/help/faqs/pc_relocator.asp
Unfortunately I have no experience with this software and can't tell about the results...
Good luck, Scott

-- Jos�.