Windows 7 won't install on a new 1 TB WD Red

[oscarm1ke]

I bought a new WD 1TB HDD red, and I want to install Windows 7 but fail. The motherboard is Asus A88XM-Plus, and the processor in an AMD Athlon 860K. HDD is connected correctly, the BIOS is set to DVD as the first boot device. SATA is configured for AHCI, not IDE. The BIOS can see the HDD, but windows 7 always asks me to install the driver for HDD. What should I do to install windows 7? Thank you!

 

[Darkbreeze]

Try enabling or disabling compatibility support module or secure boot, in the bios. Also, use this method to do a CLEAN install:

http://www.sevenforums.com/tutorials/1649-clean-install-windows-7-a.html


You may need to partition the drive with a third party utility prior to installing the OS as Red drives which are generally meant for server use or RAID configurations, may have some quirks with AHCI installations.

 

[SuperSoph_WD]

Hey there, oscarm1ke!

@darkbreeze is right, WD Red is not supposed to be used as a standalone OS drive, it is power-efficient and the spin-down might cause you headaches. I'd recommend trying the drive on another computer to see how it will get recognized there.
I'd also suggest you to install the WD SES driver and see if that will help you get the WD Red properly detected in order to install Windows on it.
Here's a link with instructions how to install it: http://products.wdc.com/support/kb.ashx?id=qKQ6iy
Why it is needed: http://products.wdc.com/support/kb.ashx?id=USvE2I

Keep us posted!
SuperSoph_WD