Can someone help me please?

[Gee_Simpson]

I'm a bit of a noob when it comes to installing/re installing an OS (only ever done it once and that was over 5 years ago).

So, I have bought an SSD and I want to replace my HDD with it. I don't plan on keeping the HDD and want to sell it on. I will be using the SSD in my system on its own because it is large enough GB wise for my needs. Would it be possible to wipe the HDD completely to sell on then install my SSD using my oem disc or does it make more sense to wipe the HDD after I install the SSD?

 

[MeteorsRaining]

Wipe HDD using this software:
http://www.dban.org/

And then do a clean install of Windows on your new SSD.

 

[Alpha3031]

Standard procedure is to clone the HDD (usually the SSD will come with software to do that). After you're done you'd format the HDD. Clean install also works and may be less messy though.

 

[smorizio]

if you dont have to sell the hard drive then use it as a storage drive. with ssd you cant fill then full like a hard drive you have to leave room for wear leveling and garbage clean up. i have a two drive system. my os and programs i use a lot are on the ssd. my movies and music and downloads go to the hard drive,

 

[Gee_Simpson]

I will be selling the HDD. I don't have to but I want to as honestly I don't use much storage. I have a portable HDD to move files to if the SSD starts slowing down.

I don't want to clone the HDD, I'll be doing a clean install. So would my original plan be ok to DBAN the HDD then install the SSD?

 

[MeteorsRaining]

Yes, backup any important files you have on the HDD.

 

[ArtPog]

By all means FIRST fresh install the OS onto your SSD, THEN, as long as you're satisfied with the results and you're absolutely certain there are no files, personal data, etc. that you need to copy over to the SSD from your HDD, ONLY THEN should you wipe your HDD. That's the safe & sane way to do it.

 

[Gee_Simpson]

I definitely have everything that I need backed up. The reason I'm asking if I can wipe the HDD first is because I don't have a spare set of sata cables.

 

[ArtPog]

My advice to you still stands. If you have to wait until you get a SATA cable, then wait. All of us have learned through bitter experience that #@!# happens when you're working with PCs.

 

[Gee_Simpson]

Ok I'll take your advice. I'm in no rush to sell the HDD anyway so I'll just go ahead and purchase another set of sata cables. Do you know of any cheap ones that are of a decent quality?

 

[ArtPog]

SATA data cables are generally quite inexpensive - range about $2 - $5. Take a look here...
http://www.newegg.com/SATA-eSATA-Cables/SubCategory/ID-2834?Tid=17710

We haven't found any significant difference between any of them and we've worked with dozens of different SATA cables. Data transfer rates are pretty uniform among all (regardless as whether they're designated SATA 2 or SATA 3). The length of a cable according to your needs is a consideration. Also whether you desire a "locking latch" or a right-angle connector. But by & large they're all pretty much the same.

 

[Gee_Simpson]

I should add that I'm in the UK. I'm sure I'll be able to find some on Amazon UK.

 

[Gee_Simpson]

Is there a better free alternative to DBAN or is that generally the best one?

 

[MeteorsRaining]

DBAN is usually the preferred option. Any issues?

 

[Gee_Simpson]

Nah, it should be fine. If I have any problems I'll let you know.

 

[Gee_Simpson]

DBAN is usually the preferred option. Any issues?

Everything is completed now and went smoothly. Now I can sell my Hard Drive

Mods, you can close this thread now.