New SSD and clean Win7 install best way to do it????

Peter017 · 06 Feb 2012

Hi all,

I got a new SSD today, woo hoo! It is a crucial M4 128gb.

I want to do a clean install of Win7 on this and then add a few programs that I use the most like, BF3, corel draw, and a CAD program.

1. I do a new install on the SSD, what happens to the old HDD with win 7 installed on it?

2. Can I delete the old win7 off the old HDD once I have win7 going on the new SSD?

3. I think I should partition the new SSD so that at least one section is clean and dedicated to Win 7 only. How much should I allocate for this?

4. Any other tips or sugestions? I have read something about ACIP or AHIC in the mobo to turn on? I have the ASUS P6t board.

Peter

DustSailor · 06 Feb 2012

Hello Peter, And an overall welcome to Sevenforums

Saving files is another matter, and one I will leave up to you. However, to do a clean install, I recommend using this LINK, and disconnecting any HDD's while the computer is off in order to install to the SSD.

If your previous windows 7 install on the HDD is the same you are placing on the SSD, then I would completely reformat the HDD so as to leave no trace of the OS on it.

I wouldn't partition the SSD, but its a choice you can make for yourself. Is there really a good reason for this?

It is recommended that you enable AHCI mode in the BIOS before you install the OS because it will allow your SSD to operate faster.

After you reformat the HDD, you can use it however you like.

Peter017 · 06 Feb 2012

Thanks for the reply dustsailor

I guess what I really want to know is if I install win 7 to the SSD, then when I plug the old HDD in, will the computer still boot up on the new SSD win7 install and allow me to access the old HDD and delete and copy files over to the new SSD?

DustSailor · 06 Feb 2012

Here you go buddy: SSD - Install and Transfer the Operating System

gregrocker · 06 Feb 2012

After booted install to the SSD, power down to plug back in the old HD. You should have access to its files to copy them over - drag as a group from each User folder to its corresponding one on the left hand Explorer bar.

If you need to boot the old OS, tap the Asus F8 one-time BIOS Boot Menu key given on first boot screen at startup to trigger it instead of the SSD which should remain set to boot first in BIOS setup.