[Bluecow003]

I have a computer all built that I've been using for a couple of months now. I have 1 74GB Raptor and Newegg has a pretty good deal going now for another so I was thinking about doing a Raid 0 array. I know that the array requires a fresh install of windows. Is there any way to setup the array without losing everything I've installed on the first drive? I just use the Raptor for windows and programs. Could I just copy everything onto another drive, setup the array, install windows, then copy all the windows/program stuff back to the array, just adding and replacing the new windows stuff?

I just don't want to lose everything that's on the first drive already.

 

[cdub998]

No there is no way possible to get around formatting and starting over. Trust me I just went raid and had the same q's as you.

 

[timsvpr]

Quote:

Originally Posted by cdub998 No there is no way possible to get around formatting and starting over. Trust me I just went raid and had the same q's as you.

Back all your files up on DVDs or CDs or another drive that will not be in the array and then reformat - its the only way to go.

 

[Bluecow003]

Yeah, I understand that I have to reformat, but if I just copy the entire drive onto another backup drive, that is not in the array, then reformat and install windows and setup the array, then copy everything from the backup drive onto the array would that work? What would happen? Would the programs work? I mean basically if I copy absolutely everything back from the old windows install to the array with the fresh Windows wouldn't it be just like before?

The only difference would be that the new Windows would recognize the array and the old windows wouldn't, so in the process of copying back the old windows to the array, couldn't I just replace everything from the new install besides the new array 'knowledge' that windows will have?

 

[cdub998]

I doubt the prograsms would work as most of them set up registry entries. Withought the registry entry the program would either not work or go nuts.

 

[Bluecow003]

Quote:

Originally Posted by cdub998 I doubt the prograsms would work as most of them set up registry entries. Withought the registry entry the program would either not work or go nuts.

In the process of copying everything back wouldn't the registry be copied too?

Eh, maybe it wouldn't be the end of the world to reinstall everything. Is it worth spending $136 for another Raptor and having to reinstall everything? Should I do it?

 

[pauldovi]

My motherboard allows me to go RAID and not lose anything on the HD? Try reading your mobo manual?

 

[cdub998]

Raid 1 maybe but not 0, There is no way to stripe 2 drives from one drive. Since raid 1 is mirror I can see this being possible.

Look at it this way. the PC is always faster when the install is fresh.