I've run into a problem while trying to install Windows. Initially, I had two SSDs, but I decided to only use one, a 2TB NVMe drive. I removed the unused SSD and placed the 2TB drive in the slot of the one I removed since that slot is accessible and not blocked by the GPU. However, now I can only access the BIOS and can't select the disk to boot from. I thought about formatting the drive from the BIOS and performing a clean install of Windows, but my USB drive with the installation media isn't showing up as a boot option, nor is my disk.
I've tried switching the UEFI mode to CSM, tested every motherboard port, and even flashed the BIOS (though the USB drive shows up during this process). I also recreated the Windows installation files on the USB pen drive, but nothing seems to work. The USB drive is functioning correctly on other PCs and the light indicates it's connected. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!
2 Answers
Is your drive a PCIe or SATA? You can tell by the notches on the connector. Just something to check because it could affect how it's detected by the BIOS.
Did you try formatting the drive in the BIOS? It might help to completely clear it before the installation. Also, how did you create your Windows installation media? Sometimes the method can affect compatibility.
Yes, I used a feature in my MSI B650 Gaming motherboard called Secure Erase+ to format the drive. I created the installation media using my laptop with Windows 11, and it has worked fine before.
It's a PCIe drive.