Boot Windows directly from a pre-installed drive.
Boot Windows directly from a pre-installed drive.
You can start your PC using the pre-installed Windows 8.1 drive instead of a separate disk or flash drive. Follow the instructions on the PC part picker page to install and boot from it. If needed, you can also use BIOS settings to change the boot order.
Paragon provides the solution to remove outdated drivers and ensure compatibility with the new system.
Are you planning to transfer your whole operating system onto the new SSD perfectly intact? Or are you aiming to just start Windows and work with the SSD? Also, considering getting a 500-watt power supply for this setup with the 970 chipset.
I’d like to install the SSD on my existing machine, use the recovery disk to restore Windows, remove the old drive, and then fit the new SSD into the updated system.
However, pcpartpickernonly indicates that my assembly will consume under 300 watts
I suggest 500w since I think you'll want to upgrade the CPU and maybe the GPU too. Under heavy use, you won't need to worry as much about the PSU's efficiency drop to 85%. This unit is rated for 430w but can handle 365w or more. A 500w bronze model is available at a similar cost and supports up to 425w+. It's just my take—having a bit more flexibility would be nice.
Because you don’t have a retail version of Windows, are you using an OEM? My idea is this: we need the OS on your SSD. If you have a retail copy, perform a fresh installation on the new SSD and move your personal files from the HDD as needed. If you just want to transfer the OS without changes, plug it in and continue where you left off—use cloning software for that. If you’re using an OEM copy and using Windows Recovery, simply connect both devices during setup and choose your new drive as the backup location. Let me know if I got this wrong.