About to install my SSD via Ghost

hey guys. I'm about to go ahead and install this Crucial 128gb ssd into my R2. I will be using a program called Ghost which should allow me to transfer everything on original HD to the SSD.

I was searching the forum because i could of swore there was a SSD optimization thread or tips and tricks.. ect i cant seem to find it so im wondering if any of you out there have any input i should follow.

This is my first SSD and I want to get it right the first time

thanks

 

Installing an SSD? tips/tricks/benchmarks

 

I've heard that imaging an SSD can throw off alignment and lead to slow performance, however, I know of people that have done it, and had not issues. I'd say it's worth a shot. If it goes wrong, secure erase and try a new approach. I'd say you have nothing to lose, and in the end, regardless of what happens, you'll be more knowledgable then you were before

 

if you are hard set on using ghost then make sure you prep the drive ahead of time using a windows disc or some sort of boot disc to run a partitioning and formatting software or commands. Yoiu do not want Ghost to repartition the drive or format as that would ruin the drive alignment. Clean install is always recommended since windows 7 installer will align the drive for you automatically.

Here is a SSD guide i made on how to get windows 7 down to 5gb install on a SSD and many good links for optimization and tweaking

http://forum.notebookreview.com/alienware-m15x/516410-windows-7-optimized-ssd-install-5-5gb.html

 

well everything went smooth as butter.. its running like Usain bolt *spelling*

dang i was missing out. SSD is the way to go

 

Glad to hear it went well. SSDs are thebest upgrade hands down.

 

i am also planning to upgrade the my m15x hdd to SSD.. just a quick question, can i just directly replace the hdd to ssd then use the alienware installation disk that comes in the box to install my OS?

im really sorry if this question has been asked but i really cant find it in the alienware threads, the thread "Installing an SSD? tips/tricks/benchmarks" is more on after installation thing..

 

Yes, put your SSD in your M15x and do a clean installation of the OS with the disk provided hen you purchased it. If you want the Alienware Themes and such there is a reinstallation thread that explains the best procedure for installation including drivers etc. which applies to all Alienware laptops.

 

cool! thanks man! cant wait for my upgrade...

 

If I was you, I would have used Acronis.

First time when I installed the ssd in the system, I used it via usb. Made an image of the operating system and then install it on the ssd.

After that I replaced the hdd with the ssd and works perfect since then...

Just an idea.

P.S. I always make an image of the system on all my pc's (including office) and restore it at anytime when required (doesn't take longer than 10 minutes).

 

@juliant: thanks for the suggestion man, but i still prefer have a fresh copy of OS and everything in the new SSD especially its quite expensive right now, that way i can feel my old m15x laptop is like fresh from factory..

 

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You can image it however the Windows installation won't turn TRIM on after being imaged. A bunch of registry edits need to be done. It's MUCH easier to just reinstall the OS and apps.