Help installing Windows 8.1 with MSata SSD Cache (M14x R2)

Hello everyone!

I just decided after building my rig and considering how I only use my laptop for work, that a fresh upgrade would be nice and I'm going to take the plunge on windows 8.1.

I have a M14x R2 with the 32gb MSata SSD as a caching drive. Now as I am not completely sure how that technology works I have a few questions.

1. If I go in and format my HDD and install windows 8.1, do I just reinstall the rapid store technology and my Cache drive will work just like it used to? Or do I have to reconfigure it?
2. If so how do I go about doing that?
3. I know there is a thread on how to do a clean install for windows 7 on an Alienware, is there possibly an updated one for windows 8/8.1? Just so I can get back the "look and feel" as well as Alienware programs (Like control center). I didn't seem to find one and I'm not sure if we have to do anything different for Windows 8.
4. I know its been asked a billion times, but is it worth the upgrade to windows 8.1 for speed? I'm guessing its a snappier OS and thats the main reason I'm trying it as I only do light gaming on the M14 anymore.

Any help with these questions would be greatly appreciated!

 

You'll need to install the O.S on the HDD, install the IRST and enable the acceleration from the IRST app.