I'm trying to install Windows 11 Pro on a new 1TB SSD in my Acer Predator Helios 16 laptop. The system specs are pretty solid: i9-13900HX, 32GB RAM, and an RTX 4080. However, when I start the installation, it doesn't recognize the storage drives. I've heard this might be a common issue with newer Intel generations, but I'm not sure what to do. Any advice would be appreciated!
3 Answers
This issue could be related to the Intel Rapid Storage Technology (IRST) drivers. Often, the VMD option is enabled in the BIOS instead of using the standard AHCI mode that Windows can recognize. You should check your BIOS settings to see if you can disable the VMD option. If that's not an option, you'll need to download the necessary drivers from the Acer website and copy them to a USB drive to load during the Windows installation.
It sounds like your SSD might not be showing up correctly. Make sure to check your BIOS settings to confirm that the drive is detected there. If you've installed multiple drives, see if they all show up. Sometimes you may need to load additional drivers from a USB during the Windows setup process to get everything recognized.
Before making any changes, remember to back up your data! If you decide to tweak your BIOS settings, keep in mind that it's essential to know what you're changing. It's always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the setup process, especially if you have to disable certain features or load drivers from another source.

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