Windows 7 - New HD - Need recommendation for new OS install

I just purchased a new SSD hard drive and need a recommendation on the best way to install the OS on the new drive.

Currently, I have Windows 7 Pro installed on the drive that came with the computer, but I plan to use that drive for data storage.

What's not clear to me is after I install the new SSD drive, what are the steps I need to take to install Win 7 on that drive and make the new drive my primary drive and C drive too?

I figure once I've done that, I'd reformate the old drive, after I copied my data, and just use that for data and backups.

So, what steps do I need to take to properly install and make the new drive my primary and C drive too?

Thanks,
Greg

Disconnect the drive you currently have.

Install the SSD and hook it up to the very first SATA port.
(Port 0 or 1 however your board lists it)

Leaving ONLy the SSD connected, Install Windows as you normally would.


Once installed and running, power down and reconnect the other drive.

Double check that the SSD is the first boot device.


Boot to Windows, Copy what you want to keep, then format the old drive

Me personally would remove the factory installed HDD and put the new one in, then turn PC on and boot from CD (Win 7 Disc)

I would then just install it as normal and once all set up, put the other drive back in and format it (once data has been copied).

I have done it this way in the past.

Regards,
JDobbsy1987

**EDIT**
I must have hit the post button just after Wishmaster

Hello Greg.





The best way is to first, disconnect the Hard Disk Drive (HDD) that currently has W_7 Pro on it and connect the Solid State Drive (SDD) and install the new Windows to the SSD, after the install reconnect the older HDD and then you can use the one time BIOS boot menu to select which HDD,OS / SSD,OS to start when the PC is booted.

Then it will be very easy to remove the older OS when you choose.



Edit: Looks like we all posted close to the same time.

Thanks all for the replies. I sounds like you are all in agreement for the way to handle the new HD. And it sounds pretty simple and straightforward.

Thanks again, I shouldn't have any problems with you suggestion.

Greg

Hello again Greg, be sure to post back to keep us updated.

I sure will. SSD drive was ordered, hope it will be here by Sept 24.

Greg

What'd you get?

Your steps worked great! Got the new OCZ Vertex 2 SSD installed and the OS is loaded.

Just reinstalling a few programs and updated drivers. Had a little problem with the activation with Windows 7 but Shawn helped me get that problem fixed.

Thanks again for your responses, Bare Foot Kid, JDobbsy1987, and Wishmaster.

All is well.

Greg

Update: with the new drive, my Windows Experience Index went from 5.9 to 7.6

Glad to see it Greg, thanks for the update!