Best HD for OS

A2Z

A2Z

Soldato
Joined
9 May 2005
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Ok my Windows xp pro 32bit just takes aaaages to boot and load programs up..and its getting kinda annoying.

Instead of just formatting and reinstalling windows, ive decided to upgrade from 2gb -> 4gb ram, and ive decided to get a new HD, and install windows 7 64bit.

Currently I have a 160GB WD SATA, and running HD Tune now, and it averages about 55MB/sec :eek:

I know ssd would be the fastest choice...but unless they are less then £50 then ill pass :p

So whats the next best HD for OS? Would only be used for OS+Programs...so not bothered about space...got a 1TB for storage
 
Or just don't boot... I only reboot my Windows box once a month if that. Just put it to sleep when you're not using it. That way it's ready to go (with browser tabs how you left them etc.) in under 10 sec.

The MacBook I'm using now is on 20 days uptime. Computers don't need rebooting much these days.
 
Velociraptor's spring to mind

But a waste of money for most people.

For a small increase get a 16-32Mb cache 250-500gb HDD, WD seems to be the current in favor make of the moment. I'm sure people can make suggestions if you supply a size and budget.

Or a nice Raid 0 if your mobo supports it, just add a similar HDD to the one you have now. Same size (it can be bigger but you lose the extra space),
doesn't have to be the same make, but getting one with similar performance is a good idea.

If you mobo don't support raid a raid controler card can be used
Adaptec AAR-1225SA PCI Express x1 2-Port eSATA RAID Controller
http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CC-030-AD&groupid=701&catid=49&subcat=424

In raid you'd get similar performance to a single Velociraptor, but a lot cheaper and more space.

The only down side would be the increased chance of data loss, if either of the drives failed, you lose all the data. (Make backups)
 
Samsung F1 320Gb ?

Single platter higher disk density, should mean faster load times.
I've RAID'd 2 of em and a noticeable difference in both OS and games.

as people have commented on the data loss side of things, I'd recommend Acronis True Image. just install the OS and the necessary bits and image it. Far Faster than reinstalling windows and also means you can chop/chang thru OS's if you like
 
Samsung F1 320Gb ?

Single platter higher disk density, should mean faster load times.
I've RAID'd 2 of em and a noticeable difference in both OS and games.

as people have commented on the data loss side of things, I'd recommend Acronis True Image. just install the OS and the necessary bits and image it. Far Faster than reinstalling windows and also means you can chop/chang thru OS's if you like

+1 for this method.
 
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