Windows 7, 3TB HDD No UEFI

[ThaChad]

Hey all,

So I got a 3TB HDD a few years back and ran smack into the 2.2TB barrier issue...

However, at the time, I don't remember what I did, but I had found a solution, that involved formatting and installing Windows to the 2.2TB partition it aloud, then once windows was installed, stretching the partition out to the full 3TB. It worked fine and I never had any problems. I don't remember exactly how to do it, if it required 3rd party software or if I was able to do it with the built in windows partition software..?

I had some power issues that ended up causing the HDD to get corrupt. So now I have to start over with the formatting/installing windows. But I can't remember for the life of me how I did it last time?

I have an older Intel Core 2 Quad motherboard/processor that doesn't support UEFI. So the above mentioned option is really my only option.

If anyone can help me figure this out?

Thanks,

-ThaChad

 

[gregrocker]

If you haven't already, test the HD with the maker's HD Diagnostic extended CD scan to know its condition for sure.

Format a 100gb OS partition during intsall, then later add data partitions in Disk Mgmt.

You shouldn't need a larger partition than that for Win7. You want to keep the backup image smaller so if necessary move the User folders off to a Data partition so that if Win7 ever becomes irreparable again you can reimage the OS partition in 20 minutes and your data will be safe, current and still linked from its partition. This is the modern way to handle reinstalls.

Here is how to move User Folders - Change Default Location.

Other tips here that compile everything that works best for Clean Reinstall Windows 7 and result in a perfect install that stays that way just as long as you stick with the tools and methods given.

 

[ThaChad]

Yeah, that's not what I'm looking to do...

So, windows creates a system partition "system reserved"? Which contains the MBR, correct?


So if I create a 2tb partition and install windows, then once windows is installed, I convert the main partition (leaving system reserved), to GPT and strech the partition out to consume the full 3TB, would that work? That's seemingly what I did last time...


-ThaChad

 

[gregrocker]

No it will not work. Conversion is a destructive process.

Why do you need a 2 TB Windows partition?

 

[ThaChad]

No it will not work. Conversion is a destructive process.

Why do you need a 2 TB Windows partition?

Well, I know for a fact that I did it before.... I just don't remember how...


I don't need a 2tb windows partition, but I don't like having multiple drives..


ThaChad