I have a 2024 Zephyrus G16 with an RTX 4080, and I recently tried to upgrade my SSD by adding a new 4TB Samsung 990 EVO Plus. Unfortunately, I neglected to disconnect the battery from the motherboard during the installation. Now, my laptop only turns on when it's plugged in, and it doesn't recognize the new SSD at all. When I remove the new SSD, everything works fine again. I've checked the BIOS and can't find the new drive there either.
To make matters worse, I'm starting to think the SSD I bought might be a fake; it shows up as only 119 GB and has some discrepancies like a tilted sticker! Assuming it is fake, could that explain why my laptop only powers on while plugged in?
4 Answers
It sounds like there might've been a short circuit that could've damaged the second SSD slot. Try testing the new SSD in the primary slot to see if the BIOS detects it there. If the new SSD still doesn’t show, it might just be faulty, or you might have ended up damaging the slot in your laptop.
First off, did you format the new SSD, or install any OS on it? If not, that's likely why it’s not showing up. Also, make sure it’s properly seated in the slot.
If your main SSD is still fine and has Windows installed, you might be able to use the new SSD just for storage once it's set up correctly!
Given that your laptop only turns on when plugged in, there could be something really wrong with the power circuit. Try removing the new SSD again and see if the laptop boots normally without it. You might also want to test that SSD in another machine if you have access to one, just to see if it actually works.
I tested it without the new SSD installed, and the laptop boots up just fine.
If the new SSD is showing as only 120 GB, it’s definitely suspicious. Most 4TB drives should show up correctly. I’d consider returning it if you can and going for a different one. Also, it’s usually safe to skip disconnecting the battery, but it’s wise to do it to avoid issues.
I already have Windows on my original SSD; I just wanted to add the new one for extra storage.