Raid 0 on existing XP Pro

Bopster · 01-13-2008, 10:51 PM

I want to add a second Raptor 150 and switch to a Raid 0 setup.
Without reinstalling XP from scratch and using F6 for the drivers.
The idea is to use Acronis Image to make a image of existing install then install that on the new Raid array.
This should work because I am using a second HD of the same type/size as the one OS is installed on now.
The question is how do I install all the Raid drivers on my existing non-raid install before I image it so they will be there when I copy the image to the new Raid array?
If I can do this then I can create the array, then use Acronis boot cd to install my image to the new Raid array.

Thanks for the help

**Kheldar** · 01-15-2008, 03:35 PM

just install it as any other driver - once you can see the controller, its safe to image

Bopster · 01-17-2008, 10:50 AM

I got it to work, whew.
I am not sure if its worth the time/trouble vs a clean install but there is something to be said for winning the battle.
Here is how it worked:
1.Do AHCI reg entry from "How to add AHCI" post.
2.Make sure Intel Storage Manager is then installed.
3.Make Acronis image of C drive (where C is boot drive).
4.Save image to a HD not part of intended Raid0 array.
5.Make Acronis recovery boot CD.
6.Install 2 hard drives for new Raid array (existing HD plus new one that is exact match or 2 matching new ones).
7.Go to bios and turn on Raid controller, put CD/DVD as first boot device.
8.Put Acronis boot CD in CD drive.
9.Configue new Raid array of you choice.
10.Boot to CD, follow directions for full drive recovery.
11.Reboot
Here is where it gets tricky. Go back into Bios to stop boot sequence. Replace Acronis Cd with XP install CD. Boot to XP install CD (it has to be one with SP2 slipstreamed).
F6 to install Raid drivers from floppy. Continue like you are going to do new install. It will then "see" your Acronis XP recovery install. Choose the "repair existing XP" option.
It will reinstall XP as if is was fresh install.
Do windows updates as required.
When it is finished you will have your computer back.

Long way around I know but it did work.