How to install SSD without reinstalling Windows 7

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xdagex

xdagex

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Jan 24, 2014
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So my aunt's computer came with a free 128GB Sandisk Z400S and I was given it so I thought I might as well use it since my boot up is like 5 minutes long. I have 2 hard drives, a 1TB WD Blue as my boot drive, and a 2TB WD Green as my other, I'm wondering how to install my SSD without having to format either of my hard drives if possible. If reinstalling Windows 7 is easier, I would like to know how to do that as well.

1TB WD Blue - 206 GB used
2TB WD Green - 868 GB used
 
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emeck

emeck

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Jun 20, 2015
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There is usually a data migration software with the ssd, but since your overall used storage is larger than the ssd, i would say just reinstall the OS on the ssd, and manually make shortcuts and stuff from your hard drives.
 
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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Clone or clean install

Clone means that you must get your current C drive to below 100GB. Preferably 80GB.
Then use one of the current cloning tools to move it to the SSD

Clean install means that you must have your OS install media, and the valid license key.
Boot from the install media, and install on the new SSD. Have only the SSD connected when you do this.
You will also have to reinstall all your applications as well.
 
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xdagex

xdagex

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Does this only apply to my boot drive or do I need to reinstall and get my WD green HDD down too?
 
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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Just your boot drive.
I just completed this operation on my boot drive. Moving from a 120GB Kingston to a 250GB Samsung.
 
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xdagex

xdagex

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xdagex

xdagex

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Alright, I just basically have to move anything valuable to my WD green and format my C drive? this won't delete any data from my WD Green will it? also, should I copy my documents file or anything since some games have the save file there?

Does this only apply to my boot drive or do I need to reinstall and get my WD green HDD down too?
 
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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What operation are you expecting to try? A clone from old to new, or a clean install?
 
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USAFRet

USAFRet

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OK then.
Save anything critical on the WD Green
Assuming you have the Win 7 install media and a valid license key....
Disconnect all other drives but the new SSD
Boot from your install media
Install.
Connect the WD Green after it is verified working.
 
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xdagex

xdagex

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Thank you, I will do so this weekend and post when it's done!
 
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