SSD cache (M.2)

[PhSm]

Hello everyone!

 

I'm buying new laptop. I like this one on this link (http://www.computeruniverse.net/en/products/90548229/lenovo-thinkpad-edge-e540-20c6008fge.asp), but I have one question.

 

I have intention to replace HDD disk with SSD 500GB (already have it). But this laptop has 16GB cache SSD M.2 with windows 8 already installed. Is this SSD M.2 on motherboard or is this a hybrid disk with HDD? I must instal windows 7 on my computer (got licence at my job), so what is the best solution here? To remove SSD M.2 (if it is on the motherboard) and instal windows 7 on 500GB SSD, or to downgrade from windows 8 to windows 7 and use SSD 500GB like second disk for other programs and stuff?

 

I would appreciate any help or advice!

[Hasleo]

the cashe SSD is on the normal harddrive, also called a SSHD.(you called it a hybrid tho)

 

so you can safely change the harddrive and install win 7 

[Master Disaster]

The M2 fits into a proprietary slot and caching is handle by the controller.

All you'd have to do is swap the main HDD and install Win 7 then disable the M2 caching in BIOS and you've got a 16 GB SSD too.

[PhSm]

All you'd have to do is swap the main HDD and install Win 7 then disable the M2 caching in BIOS and you've got a 16 GB SSD too.

 

 

So I can't install windows 7 on M.2?

[tnlich]

You shure can. Im using it on my Desktop now on a M.2. Should be the same for you.

[Master Disaster]

The M.2 is only 16GB is it not?

Yeah confirmed, the M2 is to small for Windows on its own.

[TheGeekster]

Some laptops only support caching from the M.2 disk though, my laptop which has an msata port came with a 16GB Intel cache SSD too, but I found out even if you replace it with a larger disk and disable the caching, the laptop will not boot from it. So as said above, best bet is to disable caching, replace the hard drive, install what you want and then if you really want the 16GB storage (Kinda, too small to be useful no?) use disk management to format it.

[tnlich]

Apologies .. Missed the 16 gig storage line and I hate laptops. Although the MSI GT72 series is slowly changing my mind on them. Anyhow GL!!!!