SSD Installation Process

[paleven]

Hi all,

I ordered a new Samsung 850 Evo SSD (120GB) today, and am planning on how I am going to install it such that the SSD will run my OS and some key applications (AutoCAD software) and some games, and use my current HDD for mass file storage.

Here is my suspected process:
1) Remove HDD and install SSD.
2) Install Windows 8.1 from boot discs to SSD.
3) Install all programs that I will be using frequently to SSD (AutoCAD, Google Chrome, Antivirus (AVG)).
4) Install HDD again.
5) Ensure everything is working ok, then go ahead and wipe my HDD for a fresh start.

Is this method reasonable to get maximum benefit from my SSD? The reason I do not want to wipe the HDD right away is just in case the SSD install doesn't go properly, or the drive is DOA, then I at least have another drive that I can work with in the interim. Also, what is the best method to wipe the HDD at at the end?

Thanks for all the help in advance!

 

[blurryy]

Good choice on the SSD, I have 2 of them in raid 0.

Anyway, backup your HDD to a flash drive or external HDD (if you have one) Programs are unable to be restored, only files (pictures,documents, etc)
Plug in the SSD
Install the OS
Than wipe your HDD
and use it as your secondary Drive.

For wiping your HDD, I'd use http://www.killdisk.com/

I'd put all the important programs on the SSD and use the HDD as mass storage

Hope this helps!

 

[Dark Lord of Tech]

Good choice on the SSD, I have 2 of them in raid 0.

Anyway, backup your HDD to a flash drive or external HDD (if you have one) Programs are unable to be restored, only files (pictures,documents, etc)
Plug in the SSD
Install the OS
Than wipe your HDD
and use it as your secondary Drive.

For wiping your HDD, I'd use http://www.killdisk.com/

I'd put all the important programs on the SSD and use the HDD as mass storage

Hope this helps!

http://www.overclock.net/a/windows-8-install-optimization-guide-for-ssds-hdds-by-sean-webster
Windows 8 Install & Optimization Guide for SSDs & HDDs By Sean Webster