How do I add a non os RAID 1 array to an existing Windows 10 computer

[ronaldo47]

I have an existing computer with 64 bit Windows 10 installed on an SSD. My motherboard is a Gigabyte GA-Z170X-Gaming 3 which supports a RAID array but it is currently set to AHCI mode in the BIOS. I now want to add 2 new 2TB hard drives in a RAID 1 array that will contain only data, not the OS. Is it as simple as changing the SATA mode to RAID in BIOS and then selecting the two new drives? Also, the manual discusses both UEFI Raid and Legacy RAID ROM configurations. Is one better in this situation? I don't want to run the risk of somehow destroying my OS on the SSD and having to do a whole reinstall.
Thanks for your help.

 

[Boogieman_WD]

Hey there, Ronaldo.

Not as easy as setting the SATA mode to RAID. Basically it would be best to check the motherboard's user manual. There should a detailed step-by-step guide on how to configure a RAID set.

You could also take a look at this thread, but note that this is for a different model: http://www.tomshardware.co.uk/answers/id-1930323/adding-raid-disks-existing-ssd-gigabyte-dual-bios.html

If you have any problems along the way, I'd advise you to contact the motherboard manufacturer's customer support.

Hope that helps.
Boogieman_WD

 

[FireWire2]

Very easy! Connect 2x drives to your mobo, then boot to Windows

Go to Disk Manager create a new volume as RAID1 (Mirror) it will take about 45second - It will not be an OS drive

That is it