Question Why am I getting an incorrect function when trying to initialize a new nvme ssd in GPT?

Apr 20, 2025
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I haven't tried to do it in MBR yet because GPT is supposedly be but every time I try to initialize my new external SSD (which I plan to clone over into and make my new OS disk), it immediately pops up with an "incorrect function" error. I googled this and looked through some of the troubleshooting steps, but I am unsure as to what could be causing this.

I am running an Asus A17 Fa707Rm and the SSD that I am trying to install is this one:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DN7CYYSD?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title&th=1

that is encased within this enclosure:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09T97Z7DM?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title
 
the source drive has to be gpt formatted as well
you can convert from mbr to gpt with a tool
Thank you for your reply. I am not sure what you mean or how I am supposed to check the source drive?

I just recently updated the drivers on the SSD and now it is showing as a REMOVEABLE DISK but it won't let me initialize it? Any thoughts?
 
Well, at the moment I am not able to clone because the external SSD is only showing up as a removable disk and it is not allowing me to initialize it.

When I get to the point where the SSD is recognized as a device that can be cloned, then I have the EaseUS Partition Master program.
 
It looks like when I updated the drivers to the SSD that it might have somehow initialized it into an MBR format, I'm not sure. It is showing up as a removable disk but WITHOUT the option to initialize it. When I googled it, this is what was said:

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If your external SSD appears as a "removable disk" and you're not given an option to initialize it, it's likely already initialized or there's an issue preventing initialization. Several factors can contribute to this, including the device's status, the system's BIOS settings, or potential hardware/driver problems.

Here's a breakdown of potential causes and troubleshooting steps:

1. Device is Already Initialized:
  • GPT or MBR:
    .Opens in new tab

    Your SSD might be pre-initialized with either GPT (GUID Partition Table) or MBR (Master Boot Record). If it's already initialized, you won't see the "Initialize Disk" option.
  • Existing Partition:
    .Opens in new tab

    If the SSD has a valid partition table and file system, it's already usable and doesn't need initialization.
2. BIOS and SATA Port Configuration:
3. Hardware and Driver Issues:
  • Faulty Drive: The SSD itself could be faulty, preventing initialization.

  • Connection Problems: Check the connection between the SSD and your computer or enclosure. A loose connection or a faulty USB port could be the issue.

  • Outdated or Corrupted Drivers: Outdated or corrupted drivers for the SATA controller or USB devices could cause problems.

  • Missing Permissions: You might be missing the necessary permissions to access the device drive.
Troubleshooting Steps:
  1. 1. Check Disk Management:
    Open Disk Management (Win + R, type diskmgmt.msc, and press Enter). See if the drive is listed and if it has a valid partition.

  2. 2. Try Different USB Ports:
    Test the SSD with different USB ports and ensure they are functioning correctly.

  3. 3. Use a Different Enclosure or Cable:
    If you're using an enclosure, try a different enclosure or USB cable.

  4. 4. Check Device Manager:
    Open Device Manager and look for any errors or warnings related to the SSD or its associated drivers.

  5. 5. Update Drivers:
    Update your SATA controller and USB device drivers.

  6. 6. Run Disk Check:
    Use the chkdsk command in Command Prompt (run as administrator) to check for errors on the drive.
 
Update on this...

So, I see the SSD listed as an external drive in the My PC section. However, when I try to "format" it Win11 does absolutely nothing if I click on that. When I try to "open" it, this is what it says... "Please insert a disk into USB drive D" (which is the letter of the drive, but I don't think it's been initialized or formatted correctly).

Any thoughts on why it would say that or how to correct it so that I can properly initialize and or format it?

It is showing up as a REMOVABLE DRIVE in disk manager, it says it's online but there is no option of initializing it. Also, when I go into properties under "Volumes" it lists all the details etc but it is currently showing 0MB for some reason (and above that it is showing MBR as the partition style, but I didn't go through any process of choosing MBR or GPT yet).

See screenshots here and here. And this is a screenshot showing the USB Drive D properties if that helps.
 
looks like the ssd is not recognized anymore, only the adapter
try a different usb port
open up the adapter and have a look if it's still correctly in place
I have tried all three of my ports, two USB-C and one USB-A and they all do the same thing. I have tried googling all sorts of different things, but nothing seems to work. Man, this was supposed to be an easy project, lol.