Preexisting XP IDE C:\ (Can SERVER 03 go on SATA)

[getting there]

Awaiting Sata hard drive for installation of Server 2003, currently I have XP on IDE 0 of Gigabyte GA-8S661FXM-775 mother board. I have 2 other IDE storage disks connected: E:\ & F:\

Real CD/DVD D:\ & ALCOHOL G:\

I would like to keep XP familiarity and internet access but could reformat and shuffle the OS to another drive/type if it might be a better option.

I have never used SATA to date not having a SATA drive to plug in.

Can I connect a SATA drive and install Server 2003 for a multi OS boot arrangement, perhaps only if a necessity, use Acronis Selector which in general I have never experienced reliability with an inevitable problem eventually of compatibility with something that resulted in a reformat.

The other thing I picked up reading the web was to make VM for Server 2003, I have had VMware Workstation installed previously but would prefer if Server 03 was installed on a real drive.

Just mention Virtual environment incase this might be an option and perhaps have limitations, one of which I would see as having to start it from within XP and losing a little performance.

Yet another suggestion I found was to put it in a separate box which is my less preferred option as it will cost more money.

Thanks if someone wants to try and tackle my questions to help or just what option you are using?

Cheers