Setting up a SSD for boot drive and HDD for programs and games

[Buckshot987]

I installed a 64gb Samsung SSD and a WD 500GB HDD and I am wanting to use the SSD for Windows OS and then use the HDD for programs like Steam and Microsoft office and store music and pictures on it. Is this setup up possible and if it is how do you do it.

 

[edwar]

Yes it is possible and a lot of people do that, even me but my programs are on the SSD. My SSD is larger then your 64GB drive.

There are tutorials that cover this. Try the tutorial section of this site.

 

[pcunite]

Yes, it is possible. However, the point of getting an SSD is to make things fast ... so you should also install your programs on the SSD as well. Data on the mechanical drive is fine ... Just put a shortcut folder to the "D:" drive or whatever.

 

[whs]

1. only very large programs should go to the HDD. You have to direct them there during the installation - not in 20/20 hindsight.

2. The user data should go to the HDD. Make folders on the HDD (Documents, Pictures, Videos, Muisc) and move your data into those. Then right click on those folders and INCLUDE them into the corresponding library.

I would NOT move the default locations of the existing folders that come with the OS (for a variety of reasons) - although that is possible with the Location tab in the folder Properties.

 

[gregrocker]

I would install my favorite programs first to the SSD to see the speed difference if you later are faced with the choice to move them to HD due to such a small SSD. Otherwise I'd only install lesser-used programs to the HD.

Be sure to follow Wolfgang's suggestion to copy (not move) the User folders to HD then link via relevant Library - Include a Folder - Windows 7 Forums. Every time you click on Documents you'll see your C drive folder included so you can drag any stray files that go there instead.

 

[Buckshot987]

Okay so if I wanted to install something like Microsoft office to the HDD do I need any special folders on the HDD?

 

[gregrocker]

Not unless you want to organize your Program Files there. I would keep Office on SSD if possible for faster speeds. At least sample it that way.

 

[Buckshot987]

Okay will do thanks

 

[mjf]

Also be aware that you can do away with Hybernation and reduce the size of the Pagefile and gain significant space when operating from an SSD.
Windows 7 SSD Tweaking Guide