Upgrading 32GB mSATA cache module in laptop to a 128GB SSD

[hpzbook15owner]

Hi, my laptop has a 32gb mSATA cache module and a 500 gb hard drive. I would like to upgrade the 32gb mSATA cache module to a 128 GB SSD, which would become the boot drive.

I have a HP ZBook 15 with the following specs: https://ic.tweakimg.net/camo/8a8dd97c13f8858eacd516950a2c07cf79338cc5/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fsnag.gy%2FfZZT0.jpg

I was wondering whether:
1. .. this is possible?

2. If it is possible, is this the procedure I should follow in order to replace the 32gb mSATA cache module with a 128/256GB SSD? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UzgqTm-A6wc. Or was the SSD that was replaced in the video a regular SSD and not the mSATA cache module?

3. If it is possible, should I simply search for "mSATA drive" on Google or are there different specific models of mSATA drives, some of which may fit into my laptop and some which may not?

 

[popatim]

The one in that video is a Samsung 512gb SM951 M.2 pcie/nvme drive. Its not an msata.

If you are sure that you have the msata drive then, while you can upgrade it, you might not be able to boot from it without loading a separate bootloader onto the HDD. HP blocked booting from the msata and will only boot the hdd on many models.
You should let us know the full model# from the label on the bottom of the laptop so we can be sure.

 

[JohnnyLucky]

I took a look at the specifications page you linked to. You have several options available to you.

Both the mSATA ssd and the hard disk drive can be replaced with new ssd's.

The mSATA ssd can be replaced with a larger capacity mSATA ssd and used like a normal ssd while the hard disk drive can be replaced with a standard 2.5 inch SATA 3, 6Gb/s ssd. You will have to do a fresh clean install of the operating system, drivers, applications, and utilities. My inclination would be to use a new SATA 3 6Gb/s ssd as the primary drive. The mSATA drive could be used for secondary file storage.

I maintain a consumer ssd database listed in a sticky at the top of this forum section. Luckily it still includes an mSATA section with larger capacity drives. I've been thinking of deleting the mSATA section as there isn't much interest in those drives. Here is the link:

http://www.johnnylucky.org/data-storage/ssd-database.html

Scroll all the way down to the very bottom of the database where you will find about 17 mSATA models listed. Follow the links to the technical reviews where you will find more information about the drives. The technical reviews are divided into two groups - English language reviews and reviews in many other languages. There are no advertisements, pop-ups, or other distractions. It is strictly a hobby.