Cloning a clean install help.

[Fingerbangst]

I want to run a dual boot with Win 7 64 bit on 2 HD's so I can have a very lean install for running cubase 5.5 64bit. And a general purpose install for all other usage. I had planned on cloning the fresh install with just Win7 on and then treating them as in essence as 2 pc's, I know that easybcd seems essential. I have a second drive with all my files on which I dont want the Cubase drive to see but the general purpose one has access to. Any tips or advice/pointers would be very welcome indeed. Thanks

 

[SIW2]

You may have a problem booting if both HD's are online.

Depends what cloning software you use.

If you do, just run startup repair by booting the 7 dvd.

 

[Fingerbangst]

Thanks SIW2,
Is it possible to configure the boots to ignore the others drives. Or would I be better off turning the unwanted drives off in the bios before beginning a session?

 

[gregrocker]

Why is EasyBCD essential if you have two separate HD's?

The cleanest dual boot is to have two standalone HD's with bootable installs (both System), select the preferred one as first HD to boot in BIOS setup Boot Order, then if you want to boot the other use the one-time Boot Menu key given on first boot screen - every computer has one, just look on the first screen or in your Manual.

This keeps the HD's independent to come and go as you please, whereas EasyBCD interlocks them so you can't remove either unless you do a repair to recover the MBR into both.

 

[Fingerbangst]

Of course!! I was being a bit dim there. Thanks Greg for the gentle shake.