What is Ghost Imaging Backup, in details

blott said:

I have no idea of the difference between imaging and cloning. Is there a quick answer?:)

The boot files are on the 'C' partition, according to Computer Management (see attached).

So, what sort of things are in the OEM partion?

Does it matter that the SSD has lower capacity than my old HD?

Imaging: normally used to restore a system after a semi-catastrophe. You make an image file while the system is running well. The image file represents an entire partition or drive and is stored on some other drive, usually external. You "restore" that image, typically after booting from a "recovery" disk that is made within the imaging app.

Cloning: a realtime transfer, without an intervening image file. Normally used to transfer a system that is running OK to a larger new hard drive. It's a "move" rather than a "recovery" from an image file.

Some imaging apps will also clone; others won't.

Imaging requires a storage space for the image file. Cloning doesn't because it is done in real-time.

Either might work in your situation.

That OEM partition is very very small. You might have to use a specialized app to look inside it. I would plan on transferring it to the new system unless you know it is either empty or useless.


Yes, it matters if the SSD is lower capacity. That's why I said you should try to shrink your C partition so that all of your partitions combined are smaller in size than the SSD.

When you don't want to be geeky you generally need to pay someone to be geeky for you. Paragon helps you out with this cheap product
Paragon Paragon Migrate OS to SSD - Overview

HI Kado,
So, it seems that imaging is what I need to do. I simpley want to put everything onto my SSD and have that as my bootable 'C' drive. I hope that's what Paragon Migrate OS to SSD 2.0 does, as I've just bought it.

Many thanks for your help, and to IG too. Great to be able to pick the brains of those who have gone before!


Regards,



Mike

Probably a good move to buy that app. I think it's only $20?

It's well spoken of. I think it gets around the problem of transferring to a smaller HD, such as you have. It's doable without the app, but a bit geeky.

mjf said:

We are happy to help. The Paragon app is very non Geek friendly.

Hi mjf,

Nothing at all against Geeks - I love 'em when you need to get something done!!

Anyway, I am pleased to report that Paragon did the jobby painlessly (though I did have my fingers crossed), but I did have to do the making-the-SSD-my-bootable-drive bit three times before it got it; first two time it still loaded up via my old HD (whirring and clanking away), but the third time whoosh..as smooth as a hot log off a shovel! Loaded everything up in around 15 secs without the need for earplugs. I tested it by pulling the data plug on my old HD and it booted up ok.

One happy bunny!

Many thanks and have a great weekend. Now, turn the Monster off and get out into the fresh air!!


Best regards,


Mike