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    Question about Installing Windows on a New Drive

    Discussion in 'Alienware M11x' started by HolyZesto, Feb 14, 2012.

  1. HolyZesto

    HolyZesto Notebook Enthusiast

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    So I just picked up an SSD and I'd like to install windows on it, but I have big concern.

    I'd like to hold off formatting my old HDD (which I'll be using to store music, movies, etc.) until I can transfer documents from it to my SSD after I've installed windows on it. Will I be able to install windows on the new drive without formatting my HDD? And will I be able to access all the files from the HDD when booting windows from the SSD?

    Also, does anybody know how Dell performs the hinge fixes? I'm getting mine replaced soon and I'd rather not install my new drive just yet if I'm going to have to send my laptop to dell for the hinge fix.
     
    HolyZesto, Feb 14, 2012
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  2. Rishwin

    Rishwin Notebook Deity

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    In warranty Dell sends a tech out with the entire lid which has a replaced hinge, then they just swap it out. Out of warranty it has to be sent in to them.

    Yes you can, just get an external caddy for the stock drive which you remove and then just plug it in via USB
     
    Rishwin, Feb 14, 2012
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  3. jaeyang9

    jaeyang9 Notebook Consultant

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    before you take out your old hdd..

    i'd also recommend moving whatever files you need from your old hdd to a folder in the root directory of the drive. this will save you the hassle of sorting out "permissions" later to access/copy files under the old windows/user folders.
     
    jaeyang9, Feb 16, 2012
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