Windows 7: SSD no longer appears in Disk Management, or My Computer, no Activity

Skill level: Beginner

I've been toying with the idea of swapping the hard drive out of my Acer Aspire 5740-5780 laptop with an Intel SSD 330 to improve performance. So I used Norton Ghost 15.0 to copy my data to my new Intel SSD. So after that was done I swapped hard drives, and booted up. My laptop was stuck at the Acer Splash Screen (F2 and F12) menu. I'm able to press either key, but it locks after that.



Then I read somewhere that I need to go through sysprep. So I swapped the original hard drive back in. After attempting sysprep, I get an error, Fatal Error...


Now as I'm typing I'm using my original Hard Drive just fine on my laptop. However, when I connect my Intel SSD via USB on my external enclosure - it is no longer detected in My Computer or Disk Management.

Have you tried restarting the computer with the SSD connected? Also, a clean install is recommended, although cloning the hard drive can be done, but much easier with Paragon migrate ( not free $19.95). it will transfer the complete OS and align the SSD at the same time. You may find this useful, SSD - Install and Transfer the Operating System

Are you suggesting restarting with the SSD connected via USB external enclosure? No. Will try that now and report.

After restarting, SSD still not detected on My Computer or Disk Management.

I will perform a clean install next time. For now I'd like my SSD to become functioning again so that I can use it towards my desktop build next month.

I guess you are aware that you can not just switch the SSD back and forth between the laptop and desktop. The drivers for the two are different so you will have problems. You need to put the SSD in one of your computers and leave it.

I'm aware, however the only machine involved is my laptop. It was an attempt to swap out my laptop's hard drive with this SSD for a performance boost. For the record, my laptop is functioning with original hard drive. But my "external" is not connecting.

Try putting the Windows 7 DVD in the DVD drive, install the SSD in the laptop, boot from the DVD. See if the SSD is recognized, if so Install to the SSD.

Thanks for everyone's input. I took it to IT services and they determined that it's dead without much examination. I have decided since my SSD is less than 14 days old that I'll request a replacement from vendor. I've been successfully approved for an RMA and will ship it back on my dime for a replacement as I stated my SSD arrived "defective".

I will not attempt to ghost or clone again unless aided by a technician. My replacement SSD is going to my brand new build.

A clean install is by far the best way to do it. Use this tutorial and you won't go wrong. Clean Install Windows 7 If you have never used a SSD, you will be amazed how fast they are. Your programs will open in one second. Enjoy

Unfortunately I like many many many negligent owners have lost the Windows 7 disc. Thanks.