installing windows to external hdd while IN windows?

[damian']

hey guys i have a few questions. I just built a computer but i do not have an optical drive nor do i have a large enough USB drive to use as a boot tool.

I do however have an external hdd (I plan to take out the HDD inside and use that as my main drive with the new computer). So im thinking of using that to install windows 7 on my computer.

Right now I am using a netbook. I already have the windows iso files along with a legit key.

Question:
How do i go about installing windows 7 while in windows mode (via my netbook) onto my external hdd. Do i treat the external hdd as a usb?

If that is not possible, is the only other solution to just boot from my external hdd and install windows 7 using that.

 

[tontork]

I think you can start the process in windows, but you are forced to reboot pretty early into it.
Just buy a USB stick they are under 10 bucks.

 

[damian']

buying a usb is out of the question right now. Wont go into detail. (btw, the nearest store with a 4gb usb is $30)
how can i start the process in windows?

i found this, might try this, will wait for a few more responses just in case:
http://www.pcworld.com/article/165159/install_windows_7_from_an_external_hard_drive.html

 

[Joe Average]

Come on, don't crosspost questions...

I just provided an answer in the Operating Systems subforum.