3TB HDD and WIndows 7 only sees 746GB

[Joulette]

I have scoured the internet for answers. Yet ... still have questions!

My PC specs can be seen here: http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16883113143

I do not have a RAID setup and don't plan to.

I was able to install the new Seagate Barracuda 3TB HDD via one of the front bays. They were already powered! Yay!

Booted up, Windows 7 (64-bit) found the new drive and loaded drivers.

Used Windows disk Manager to initialize and format as GPT, but Windows only sees 746 GB. I know this problem is common.

A lot of users have installed Intel's RST drivers. But I'm not using a RAID setup, remember.

PC has an Intel ICH10R SATA AHCI Controller.

It also has an Intel core i7 930 (2.80 GHz) processor.

Your assistance is appreciated!

 

[basroil]

Check the disk manager to see if it has a random partition there

 

[Joulette]

It doesn't appear the partition is random. I suspect the partition was made when I told Windows Disk Manager to format for GPT. So now it appears I need partition utility software to help me remove the partition.

What's your favorite partition software that will remove partitions and is free or inexpensive?

 

[SuperSoph_WD]

Hey there, Joulette!

I'd recommend you repeat the Initializing & Partitioning procedure in Disk Management before turning to third-party partition utilities. You should delete the volume that you have created and then again use the GPT (GUID Partition Table) in order to be able to use the whole 3 TB capacity.
If the issue persists, you should check your SATA controller and chipset drivers from the computer manufacturer's official website. Once you find your model and select your OS version, you should be able to see all the latest needed hardware drivers.
Another thing that might help is a BIOS reset.

Give these a try and let us know how it goes!
Best of luck!
SuperSoph_WD