M14xR1: Can't Install Windows 7 on new SSD? (Error 08007045d)

Hey guys,

So I got a brand new SSD which I replaced with the old DVD (Using caddy from ebay). Its recognized when I access it from my current windows installation (on the HDD), its formatted in the MBR format and generally doesn't give me any trouble when I use it in windows 7.
I want to do a clean install of Windows 7 on the SSD, but every time the windows installer reaches the "expanding files" part (after the reboot), it either pops the 08007045d error saying windows can't go through with the installation, or it just remains stuck on 0%. That error is known to be an I/O error but I can't figure out what causes it. I'm trying to install via bootable USB, also tried installing from the HDD and the SSD using multiple ISO files. The ISO I'm trying to install is the same one I got from Alienware- Windows 7 Home Premium 64bit OEM, which I downloaded from digital river. Also tried installing from boot and from Windows- both end up at the same spot. I tried to install it on my friend's desktop (using the same bootable USB) and it did complete the installation, though that installation of windows wasn't recognized by my PC so it was useless.
What I tried so far:
- Updated SSD's Firmware, btw its a Crucial M4 2.5 SSD, 128GB
- Reflashed BIOS to stock A08 and set everything to default (was using unlocked version)
- Ran Checkdisk on all drives- USB, HDD and SSD
- Loaded the SATA drivers at the beginning of the windows installation (using drivers from the intel chipset installation that I downloaded from dell's supoprt site)
- Of course, I plugged the bootable USB to the USB 2.0 port

I'm trying to figure that one out for days now so I figured its the time to call for some outside help
Any suggestions, anyone?

 

That error code signifies the installer is having trouble finding the setup files. Try Downloading the Windows USB key creator tool and creating a bootable Windows 7 setup USB. Then run the clean install from that.

 

I think it's having a hard time accessing the setup files once theyr'e already on the SSD, since the copy phase goes well and then it gets stuck on "expanding files". I'll give it a shot though.
Another observation- the "expanding files" part goes well as long as its during the intial installation phase in windows (before it reboots and continues the setup), it gets to 20% just fine, then stops there after the reboot. If I install using the bootable USB, it never gets past 0% when expanding the installation files (copy phase goes well though).

 

I'd recommend another install ISO, just to rule it out. I've attached the OFFICIAL Microsoft Windows 7 download links. All versions are available,

Download Windows 7 ISO (Official 32-bit and 64-bit Direct Download Links) « My Digital Life

 

Agreed, if the Windows USB/DVD download tool doesn't work for you, then try a different ISO of Windows. Just make sure you get the OEM ISO otherwise it might not activate on your M14x. But for the USB download tool, use the ISO image off your Alienware DVD. Also, your OP states you have your SSD in the ODD to HDD caddy, try removing your hard drive and installing the SSD in the hard drive slot. Your SSD will work faster.

 

Quick update: I tried using a different ISO and a different USB maker, the problem persists.
I will try switching the HDD and the SSD though and report later.

 

Breakthrough! Switching between the HDD and the SSD did the trick! I managed to install windows 7 when the SSD was hooked straight to the sata port (instead of HDD) but not without issues, which points that either my caddy or the connecting strip are faulty. Now everything works fine if the SSD is in the caddy and the HDD in its ols spot. When I tried to switch and put the HDD in the caddy, the SSD never starts windows (stuck in the black screen with the windows logo). For some reason, this issue doesn't occur the other way around.
How much faster will my SSD perform if I plug it to the HDD port and not the DVD caddy? Just so I know how much effort I should put in it
Anyway, Thanks Radji! You freed me from the hell that is windows 7's installaion screen

 

It depends on if the hard drive's SATA port is SATA II or SATA III. If it's SATA III, then it will fly. If SATA II, then it will still go fast (just not the top speeds the SSD is capable of). What you may want to do is backup all the data on your original hard drive and then do a complete reformat of it. But don't do it until you're completely sure the SSD is working properly. And when you plug your hard drive back into the caddy, make sure to go into the BIOS and check the boot tab. You want to make sure the SSD is still top of the boot priority list and the hard drive is lower down.

 

that's what I was thinking that the HDD should be on the ODD port and the SSD on the HDD bay.