Installed second OS on sep. HD, can't restore from sys image

[NAK91]

I'm running Win 7 Pro x64 SP1.. decided to install second operating system on another HD due to the need to run a virtual environment which slows down OS (didn't want it on my primary OS). I had 3 system images which I was able to restore to prior to this. However, I now get this message when booting to Windows 7 Recovery:

"This version of system recovery options is not compatible with the version of windows you are trying to
repair. Try using a recovery disc that is compatible with this version of windows"

I've done quite a bit of research on this and I'm still quite unclear what to do to proceed.



Some other information:

-BIOS firmware was updated when second OS/HD were installed (not sure if this can have any effect)

-Tried booting under legacy BIOS option and UEFI. Neither worked, though I'm pretty sure I'm configured for BIOS

-Second OS was installed with HD containing primary OS (this one) removed

-I have the same message on the second HD/OS installed


I hope to find a solution for this and, in the future, I think may look toward other imaging software. I'm thinking about Clonezilla or Macrium Reflect, but I would appreciate advice on what is most reliable/robust. I would like to be able to install images to a different/different-sized drive without complications, if needed.

I work from this computer and can't afford to spend days reinstalling software, which is why I've always kept multiple images on a backup drive. The ones I currently have, however, are useless unless I can solve this issue.

Thanks

 

[JohnPC]

Hello,
Most of the times that I have seen that system message, it results from trying to repair an OS that has been updated with a Service Pack by using original Windows Installation disks as a recovery environment. The solutions I've encountered before suggest slip-streaming a new Install Disk. Brink has a great tutorial on this titled Slipstream Windows 7 SP1 into a Installation DVD or ISO File.
As far a system images, I've used Paragon HDM for close to 10 years now with very few regrets. My current version is PHDM 15 pro. It might have been my luck, but they've supported their product with great personal care, something I appreciate.
Regards,
JohnPC