Small HD OS, Big HD Programs?

Trenidor · 06 Jun 2011

I am in the final processes of building a new desktop PC and am wondering if there is any logic behind either of the following scenarios of it they are simply not worth it:

#1 I have an old 75gb hard drive (ST380011A) that I can salvage from one of my older computers. I am wondering if there is any benefit to using it specifically for Windows 7 only and reserving my 1 TB HD for storing everything else. (I work a lot with video)

#2 Same scenario only I have a 200gb int/ext Hardrive (it's in a kit that can make any HD an external) and is newer though I am unsure what the model number is on it.

#3 I could just put Windows 7 on my 1TB HD (ST31000528AS) and not concern myself with it.

Really my question is if there is any benefit to speed/cooling/security/etc. to having my OS on a separate HD from everything else, and what problems I might face by doing it that way.

whs · 06 Jun 2011

Having the OS on a seperate HD (I would use the 75GB model) makes a lot of sense. This in combination with frequent imaging of the OS to the 1TB disk would give you a high level of reliability. If the OS HD ever fails, you just plug a new HD in and restore the OS image (with or without user data). And imaging to the internal 1TB disk speeds up the process (versus imaging to an external disk)

An even better solution would be if you used an SSD for the OS (e.g. a 60GB model). But that is an extra $100..

pricetech · 06 Jun 2011

It has long been considered good practice to separate your OS and programs from your data. It's not a substitute for backups though.

I agree with whs that you should image your OS from time to time in case of drive failure, virus attack, or even a good old fashioned "oops".

I'd probably look at the speed of the two drives you have in addition to the size. 75 gigs should be enough in most cases, but if the 200 gig is faster, use it.

smarteyeball · 06 Jun 2011

The 75GB ST380011A is a 7,200rpm drive so that's fine. The size is plenty for the OS. Although a consideration is the age of the 75GB drive and it's condition.

Although as pricetech mentioned, if the 200GB drive is faster - I'd use that. If it's a 5,400 rpm drive though - I wouldn't.

Overall separating OS from data is a good idea.

Trenidor · 06 Jun 2011

Cool.

I'll have to look up the specs on the 200gig drive when I get a chance, but that answers my question. Thanks!

smarteyeball · 06 Jun 2011

Best of luck :)