Integrating an SSD into a build alongside a RAID 1 array

[woodson75]

I'm currently running a custom built desktop with 2 x 1TB HDDs in a RAID 1 array. I'm planning on upgrading this system and would like to incorporate an SSD primarily for the OS (Windows 8.1 Pro). My plan is this:

- Back up all the data on my current HDD
- Format both HDDs
(Once the new PC is built with a new SSD and the two old HDDs installed)
- Install Windows on the SSD
- Set up the RAID 1 array on the two HDDs and then put all my backed up data back on

Is this the way to go?

Also, when setting up the RAID array (I didn't set up the existing RAID, so it'll be a first time for me), is it done via the Intel Rapid Storage Technology software that I presume comes with a RAID ready motherboard? If so, once it's set up and I copy my data back on to the drive, will it automatically just mirror onto the second drive and continue to do so after that?

Thanks for any advice you can offer.

 

[vegettonox]

I'm currently running a custom built desktop with 2 x 1TB HDDs in a RAID 1 array. I'm planning on upgrading this system and would like to incorporate an SSD primarily for the OS (Windows 8.1 Pro). My plan is this:

- Back up all the data on my current HDD
- Format both HDDs
(Once the new PC is built with a new SSD and the two old HDDs installed)
- Install Windows on the SSD
- Set up the RAID 1 array on the two HDDs and then put all my backed up data back on

Is this the way to go?

Also, when setting up the RAID array (I didn't set up the existing RAID, so it'll be a first time for me), is it done via the Intel Rapid Storage Technology software that I presume comes with a RAID ready motherboard? If so, once it's set up and I copy my data back on to the drive, will it automatically just mirror onto the second drive and continue to do so after that?

Thanks for any advice you can offer.

That would be a good way to clean and refresh your system, btw what size is the ssd. If you want some real raw power get 2 of a slightly smaller size and stripe them on a raid to see some crazyness. I did this with 2 120gig ssds a while back and won't look back, 1GBps read and write rates baby.

 

[woodson75]

Will probably go with a 256gb SSD, although maybe 128 will be enough for Windows (and maybe one or two other programmes such as Photoshop or similar)?

 

[J_E_D_70]

Should always keep backups anyway

If the C: on the array is smaller than the ssd, you just can clone it over. Reboot to bios and set ssd as boot drive. Once you ensure all your data is accessible, format the old C: and reclaim that space on the array.

Or do it the way you said . Check mobo manual on how to get into the raid setup after POST and before windows starts.

 

[woodson75]

Yeah that sounds like a good option too, thanks!