Question 1

I have a question when cloning to this SSD. I originally purchased a Dell Windows 7 computer and then subsequently upgraded to Win 8.1 pro. Under disk management, I see three separate partitions on my C:\ drive namely:  a) OEM Partition (39 MB), b) Recovery Partition (21.15 GB  NTFS), and c) OS C:\ partition ( NTFS). Since my computer has gone through several changes since I bought it in 2012 including the Win 8.1 upgrade, what is the need for cloning, if any, of the OEM Partition and Recovery Partition. Would it not be better to ONLY clone the “OS c:\ partition” (which presumably has the O/S, all my programs and files) and then create a new recovery partition after cloning? Also, will the SSD boot if I just clone the OS C:\ partition (or is there a hidden or separate boot partition?)

Accepted Answer

You need to keep the OEM partition intact. You can skip cloning the recovery partition, but first make a set of recovery CD/DVD's, and/or create a drive image on an external storage device, just in case. Then migrate to the SSD.  You didn't mention how large your C: partition is, so pay attention to how much space will be needed on the SSD to hold your data. 
Since you are cloning, and if something goes wrong, so long as you haven't wiped your original drive, you always have a functional drive to fall back on, don't wipe the old drive until you are confident your SSD is booting and running happily. Better yet, maybe keep the old drive as is as a last ditch backup. You have many options, like also repurpose your old drive as a 2nd drive and use for mass data storage, keeping your SSD space more free, but not until you're sure all is well.

You also didn't mention what software you were going to use to clone your drive to the SSD. What ever you use, make sure it can adjust partition sizes on the fly, as it's likely the SSD is smaller than your original drive.

If you have enough room on the SSD you "could" create a new recovery partition with the right software, but in my experience, it's better to create a drive image stored on an external device. The recovery partition is great for software corruption recoveries, but if the drive fails, your recovery partition goes with it. Also, Windows 8 has very good recovery built right in, without the need for an extra partition, so for those reasons, create a backup or clone image on an external drive. Again, many options to do that, but the rules do not allow for me to give a specific product recommendation.

Good luck, and enjoy that SSD.

Question 2

I would like to use this drive on my mid 2012 MacBook Pro but I am not sure if it will work or not. Has anyone tested it, does it work?

Thanks, 
A.C.

Accepted Answer

Yes, this drive does work flawlessly, however, due to Apple software, the TRIM enable data item stays disabled, because Apple wants you to fork out for an "Apple" SSD. Workarounds are available for it.

I've had mine in a MacBook for about 6 months or longer now, and it is the pinnacle of fast.

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