When installing Windows on a RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) configuration, you may encounter installation errors due to various reasons such as:
- Disk space issues
- RAID type mismatch
- Compatibility problems with the RAID controller
- Incorrect driver installation
Here are some steps to troubleshoot and potentially fix Windows installation errors on a RAID configuration:
Step 1: Check disk space
- Verify that there is enough free space available on your disks.
- If you have a separate partition for the RAID, make sure it’s not occupied by other operating systems or files.
Step 2: Update drivers
- Inspect your RAID controller drivers to ensure they are up-to-date:
* Windows Device Manager (Press Win + X and select Device Manager)
* NVIDIA Control Panel (if using a graphics card with a RAID controller)
- Download and install the latest driver versions from the manufacturer’s website.
Step 3: Disable RAID and set it as primary
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator:
* Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter
- Disable the RAID array by setting it as primary:
diskpart
list disk
select disk 0
set part=1,init:complete
exit
RAID Configuration (e.g., IDE, SATA)
- For an IDE-based RAID configuration:
+ Set the RAID level to the desired configuration.
+ Set the boot order to prioritize the RAID device over the system’s primary boot drive.
diskpart
set part=1,init:complete
list partition
select partition 1
set start=1
select partition 2
set start=1
exit
- For a SATA-based RAID configuration:
+ Set the RAID level to the desired configuration.
+ Set the boot order to prioritize the RAID device over the system’s primary boot drive.
diskpart
list disk
select disk 0
set part=1,init:complete
exit
Step 4: Reinstall Windows
If none of the above steps resolve the issue:
- Restart your computer and enter the BIOS setup (usually by pressing F2, F12, or Del).
- Set the RAID configuration to prioritize the RAID device over the system’s primary boot drive.
- Save changes and exit the BIOS setup.
- Reboot your computer and enter the Windows Setup screen.
Step 5: Use the Windows Recovery Environment (Windows RE)
- Press the keys required for Windows RE, depending on your operating system:
* F11 for Windows 8/10
* Esc to open Windows RE
- Follow the prompts in Windows RE to install or repair Windows.
If you’re still experiencing issues after trying these steps:
- Reinstall the RAID controller driver (if necessary)
- Check with the manufacturer’s support resources or visit their website for further assistance
Remember to always back up your data before attempting any system modifications, including installing Windows on a RAID configuration.