F5F Stay Refreshed Hardware Desktop Instructions for swapping out the motherboard along with the CPU, GPU, and SSD that runs the operating system.

Instructions for swapping out the motherboard along with the CPU, GPU, and SSD that runs the operating system.

Instructions for swapping out the motherboard along with the CPU, GPU, and SSD that runs the operating system.

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Shanniee_
Member
104
10-09-2021, 06:09 PM
#1
I own a Windows 10 system running on an SSD with multiple HDDs set up as a unified mirrored storage unit, totaling around 18 TB across six drives. This setup supports my daily tasks, streaming, and some gaming, all while using a triple-monitor setup. The motherboard is showing signs of wear and should be replaced soon. The SSD also requires an upgrade to a higher-capacity model. Because of the age of the hardware, replacing the motherboard means swapping out the CPU, GPU, and RAM as well—steps I need to take before any further issues arise.

I’m looking for advice on the optimal process. I want to keep the existing storage configuration intact and integrate it into the new OS as a single drive. There are differing opinions about Windows 10 versus Windows 11, but I intend to upgrade to Windows 11 and don’t wish to discuss potential drawbacks.

Should I start by installing a fresh Windows 10 on the new SSD, then replace the motherboard, CPU, GPU, and memory, and finally switch to Windows 11? Would it be advisable to perform a clean installation of Windows 11 and connect the HDDs for storage, assuming that would work?

My budget for new hardware is about $2000, though I’m open to spending more if there’s a solid reason. The system is large enough with sufficient power and air cooling, and it can accommodate an ATX motherboard if needed.

I welcome suggestions for the best motherboard, CPU, GPU, and memory options. My goal is to run a triple 4K monitor setup for productivity and occasional gaming, with primary gaming done on a separate console connected via a 4K projector.
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Shanniee_
10-09-2021, 06:09 PM #1

I own a Windows 10 system running on an SSD with multiple HDDs set up as a unified mirrored storage unit, totaling around 18 TB across six drives. This setup supports my daily tasks, streaming, and some gaming, all while using a triple-monitor setup. The motherboard is showing signs of wear and should be replaced soon. The SSD also requires an upgrade to a higher-capacity model. Because of the age of the hardware, replacing the motherboard means swapping out the CPU, GPU, and RAM as well—steps I need to take before any further issues arise.

I’m looking for advice on the optimal process. I want to keep the existing storage configuration intact and integrate it into the new OS as a single drive. There are differing opinions about Windows 10 versus Windows 11, but I intend to upgrade to Windows 11 and don’t wish to discuss potential drawbacks.

Should I start by installing a fresh Windows 10 on the new SSD, then replace the motherboard, CPU, GPU, and memory, and finally switch to Windows 11? Would it be advisable to perform a clean installation of Windows 11 and connect the HDDs for storage, assuming that would work?

My budget for new hardware is about $2000, though I’m open to spending more if there’s a solid reason. The system is large enough with sufficient power and air cooling, and it can accommodate an ATX motherboard if needed.

I welcome suggestions for the best motherboard, CPU, GPU, and memory options. My goal is to run a triple 4K monitor setup for productivity and occasional gaming, with primary gaming done on a separate console connected via a 4K projector.

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titi88888
Junior Member
3
10-13-2021, 02:14 PM
#2
The system needs a complete fresh installation due to the significant update.
There is an established reliable method to create a comprehensive backup of the data stored in the 18TB striped array.
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titi88888
10-13-2021, 02:14 PM #2

The system needs a complete fresh installation due to the significant update.
There is an established reliable method to create a comprehensive backup of the data stored in the 18TB striped array.

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Magista86
Junior Member
1
10-13-2021, 03:58 PM
#3
Of course, the process will need a fresh operating system installation, which is why I was wondering if starting with Windows 10 and then reattaching the storage drives would be better than installing Windows 11 first and then upgrading. Or can I install Windows 11 and connect the storage drives directly?

I’ve done clean installs of Windows 10 on a new SSD before. Once it booted up successfully, I attached the storage drives and Windows recognized everything as one drive with all data intact. That worked in the past.

Another idea I’m thinking is using an old case and power supply with the new hardware. If there are problems with the storage drive, I could keep the old machine online and transfer the data to the new PC after purchasing additional HDDs.
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Magista86
10-13-2021, 03:58 PM #3

Of course, the process will need a fresh operating system installation, which is why I was wondering if starting with Windows 10 and then reattaching the storage drives would be better than installing Windows 11 first and then upgrading. Or can I install Windows 11 and connect the storage drives directly?

I’ve done clean installs of Windows 10 on a new SSD before. Once it booted up successfully, I attached the storage drives and Windows recognized everything as one drive with all data intact. That worked in the past.

Another idea I’m thinking is using an old case and power supply with the new hardware. If there are problems with the storage drive, I could keep the old machine online and transfer the data to the new PC after purchasing additional HDDs.

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BakenCookies
Member
212
10-13-2021, 05:46 PM
#4
Previous achievements don't ensure tomorrow's outcomes.
I wouldn't begin this without a reliable fallback plan.
Too many issues could arise.
And I don't like using striped arrays, whether StorageSpaces or standard RAID 0.
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BakenCookies
10-13-2021, 05:46 PM #4

Previous achievements don't ensure tomorrow's outcomes.
I wouldn't begin this without a reliable fallback plan.
Too many issues could arise.
And I don't like using striped arrays, whether StorageSpaces or standard RAID 0.

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FreeFox26
Junior Member
7
10-14-2021, 02:29 AM
#5
Understood. A backup plan is ready.
Feedback from the OP is appreciated.
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FreeFox26
10-14-2021, 02:29 AM #5

Understood. A backup plan is ready.
Feedback from the OP is appreciated.

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tomtiger99
Member
111
10-14-2021, 02:58 PM
#6
I would suggest avoiding the assumption that the existing storage array will automatically function with the new operating system.
It could work or it might not.
Construct the new system, install the OS, link the disks.
If Storage Spaces identifies them, proceed.
If not, refrain from investing time in forcing compatibility.
Clear the drives, set up a fresh Storage array, and transfer data from your backup.
What kind of drives are included in this StorageSpace, and what is the backup drive configuration?
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tomtiger99
10-14-2021, 02:58 PM #6

I would suggest avoiding the assumption that the existing storage array will automatically function with the new operating system.
It could work or it might not.
Construct the new system, install the OS, link the disks.
If Storage Spaces identifies them, proceed.
If not, refrain from investing time in forcing compatibility.
Clear the drives, set up a fresh Storage array, and transfer data from your backup.
What kind of drives are included in this StorageSpace, and what is the backup drive configuration?

F
fluffypuppy576
Member
126
10-14-2021, 04:04 PM
#7
The storage devices are WD Black HDDs with 6TB and 8TB capacities, connected via SATA directly to the motherboard. They contain personal files, images, videos, and more.
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fluffypuppy576
10-14-2021, 04:04 PM #7

The storage devices are WD Black HDDs with 6TB and 8TB capacities, connected via SATA directly to the motherboard. They contain personal files, images, videos, and more.