Can't allocate space on 3TB disk to form partitions

VolcomDust · Nov 5, 2013

I run Windows 7 x64 with a MSI GD-65 Gaming motherboard. To this board I have a 128 GB SSD connected which I run Windows on and also a 3TB HDD which I intend to install programs/store media on. Problem is though that through Disk Management I can't form partitions of more than 2047,90 GB, the remaining 746,52 GB are unavailable, only sits there like a worthless peice of junk.

I read somewhere else that I should convert the disk to GPT disk, however this option is unavailable in Disk Management, just my luck...

If someone please could give me some insight in this I would greatly appreciate it!

COLGeek · Nov 5, 2013

Check this link for how to convert to GPT:

http://technet.microsoft.com/en-us/library/cc725671.aspx

Shaun o · Nov 5, 2013

That would sound about right.
The NTFS format only supports up to 2Tb max drive size or partition.
You will have to use GPT so you can use the 750 Gb. left.

The other factor that may limit the overall drive size being used or not able to be formatted can sometimes be a limitation of the bios of the motherboard you have.

Yours is new so it should have no problem with 3Tb and over for drive sizes.

VolcomDust · Nov 6, 2013

I've just now realized why I couldn't convert the disk to GPT, and it's quite embarrassing... When I installed Windows I moved the Reserved system partition to the HDD (even though I installed the OS on the SSD) just to save a tiny bit of space on the SSD. This is the reason to why I can't convert the disk to GPT, it's not possible to format that System partition. I've read up on a solution though. Apparently I need to disconnect the HDD containing the Reserved system partition, boot from an install disk and repair the OS, according to the guide I may need to do this thrice to make it go through. But after that it should work, only Hope I'll also be able to delete that Reserved system partition on the HDD once I've managed to put the system partition on the SSD.

Thanks for all your help.

COLGeek · Nov 6, 2013

Yep, that can certainly cause this issue. When installing Windows, especially with a SSD, you only want to have the primary drive connected when you install the OS. That way Windows doesn't get confused. After the OS is installed, connect the additional drives and you'll be good to go.

Good job tracking down the issue. Have fun!

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Can't allocate space on 3TB disk to form partitions

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