Can you backup a SSD drive to an external HD?

I'm considering (if I get brave) building a PC. Since I really don't need a lot of storage space, I'd rather go for speed and use an SSD but I was wondering if there are any issues with imaging an SSD with most of the available apps?

 

You can use most imaging software to do this, but you have to keep partition alignment in mind in order to get max performance. Instead of 3rd party apps I would go with Win7's Backup and Restore tool- and don't forget to switch from AHCI to IDE in BIOS prior to doing the system image restore; it will go MUCH faster.

But if you want easy, Paragon makes a product that works well.

http://www.paragon-software.com/technologies/components/migrate-OS-to-SSD/

 

Thank you for the info!

 

the system wont boot if u change it from IDE and isn't AHCI faster than IDE for SSD's?

cruel sister you misunderstood his question.. why are you recommending Paragon Migrate? he isnt transferring an OS from the hard drive to SSD, he is transferring TO the hard drive in which case any imaging program will work. restoring will transfer the image back to the SSD perfectly fine.

you only need the paragon migrate tool if you want to transfer a windows installation from a hard drive to a SSD other wise paragon would have made a CD migrate tool and a USB migrate tool etc, which they haven't. hope this makes sense

 

Glad I came across this thread, as I am in the same situation as ratchet (will soon be buying an ultrabook with SSD) and I too was wondering if I would run into any difficulties making image backups (to an external drive) and restoring them.

And to expand on ratchet's question somewhat, are there any special issues as to repartitioning an SSD?

Wendi

 

No. Same techniques as a HDD.

Regarding partitioning. Make sure the app is 2048 sector aware.

 

Brian,

Would I not be able to safely accomplish this with Win7's disk utilities?

Wendi

 

Wendi,

Sure, it's fine.