As written at the back of the The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, DON'T PANIC.
Here are some general tips on how to get it working with Windows 7.
1. Check the System Requirements
First start with checking the system requirements of what version of Windows 7 are you going to install.
Alternatively you can use the upgrade advisor/list or just search on your favourite search engine like "dell inspiron 1420 windows 7".
2. Research
As mentioned in the previous point, searching on your favourite search engine on whether your machine will work Sometimes you will get drivers in your search results. If you are using laptops or some specialized desktops, some of the devices will not work. For example, I installed Windows 7 Ultimate for my friend's Dell Inspiron 1420, the sound will not come out of the built-in speakers due to a driver issue. Nevertheless, you must be prepared to sacrifice some features that originally came with it.
3. Reinstall the Previous Operating System
This must be crazy but it does have a use for it. You can see what's the brand and model for each hardware component so that you can list it down for your research.
4. Get the Latest Drivers
Go to the component manufacturer's website to see if they provide drivers. Some won't and will.
For instance, Intel will provide drivers for their wireless chipsets, chipset drivers, SATA drivers, display drivers and so. You can use them. NVIDIA however has universal drivers for most recent laptop graphic card drivers but do check for incompatibilities. As for ATI however, it will require some research but there is a free tool called the Mobility Modder. Check the forums before you use this tool to check if this method works.
5. Vista Drivers Work Too
If your computer has included Windows Vista drivers, don't be despaired, you can reuse them again although some of them will not work with it.
6. Use Windows Update or the Windows Update Catalog
In the Device Manager window, right click the problematic hardware and select the option to get updated drivers and select to search automatically online.
Alternatively you can also use the Windows Update Catalog at http://catalog.update.microsoft.com/ and search for the drivers that is needed for your hardware.
I hope these tips provide an upstart for your next step in upgrading your operating system to Windows 7 but most importantly, you need patience, a desire to learn new things (even if you don't understand tech) and do your research properly before investing in a copy of Windows 7.
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