Question 1

how does one install windows onto m.2 ssd?  I keep getting the error message, "Windows cannot be installed to this disk.  This computer's hardware may not support booting to this disk.  Ensure that the disk's controller is enabled in the computer's BIOS menu."  I checked the BIOS and I can't seem to find the right toggle to make it work: Please help me

Accepted Answer

When installing on an NVME drive with any OS prior to Windows 10 and possibly 8 requires a special patched version of the install DVD/USB media to include the NVME driver that is not part of Windows 7 and prior. Normally, the manufacturer supplies a tool to merge the NVME drivers onto an existing Windows 7 installation; typically limited to 1 OS and usually the commonly used Windows 7. When I build mine, I used a normal SSD for price and ease of installation since a standard SSD, which is support by this unit, does load Win 7 without any additional driver support. Checking the Shuttle web site, then do NOT appear to provide such a utility. This is more than likely true since it is possible to make the normal SATA SSD the boot drive and the OS can load and use the M.2 drive. Unless you can find standalone drivers, I think Intel used to have then available (and you need to know the exact chipset), you can side load them in one the first screens or advanced install mode screen. I have done this before and it does work. HOWEVER, finding a link to them can be a challenge. I found them through ASRock (different system) forum that eventually linked be to Intel. Installing Windows 10 from a native disk would also work, but I assume that you are probably using Windows 7 for a reason. Hope that helps in some way.

Question 2

are the hard drive and memory hard to install?  What else do I need to make this PC functional?

Accepted Answer

No, they are not that hard. The hard drive depends on the type; m.2 vs SATA. The SATA version uses a ribbon cable which is delicate. You will at least a phillips head screw driver to open the case, and a smaller headed one from internal screws; drives. M.2 driver slides in like memory but has a screw at one end to keep it in place. Memory just slides in and snap locks. It's not impossible to mess up, but it's fairly straight forward. Nothing else should be needed other than monitor, wired or wireless router/switch (hopefully with internet support), and a cable to attache the computer to monitor; validate the supported monitor ports match the shuttle's ports or an adapter might be required.

Question 3

Does this support 4K monitor?

Accepted Answer

Yes it does. I currently have only used it for 30Hz at 3840x2160 via HDMI. For 60Hz you will need a mini-DisplayPort to DisplayPort cable or mini-DisplayPort to HDMI 2.0 active adapter. Neither cable type is included in the box.

Questions & Answers