SSD possible as extra harddrive

[1ben2]

the manual indicates that only a SATA HDD can be taken by my pc however the manual discription shows there is a SSD (mini) connector on the motherboard and effectively this connector is available. 

I want to add an extra drive SSD besides my normal 2.5" drive.

So not clear if it is now possible or not and supporting drivers exist.

[old_geekster]

@1ben2 , welcome to the forum.

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@1ben2 wrote:

the manual indicates that only a SATA HDD can be taken by my pc however the manual discription shows there is a SSD (mini) connector on the motherboard and effectively this connector is available. 

I want to add an extra drive SSD besides my normal 2.5" drive.

So not clear if it is now possible or not and supporting drivers exist.

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Yes, it appears that you should be able to add a SSD to your computer.  Here are the specifications for one in HP PartSurfer: https://partsurfer.hp.com/Search.aspx?searchText=680020-001

Here is the SSD that is in HP PartSurfer: https://harddiskdirect.com/680020-001-hp-256gb-sata-6gb-s-2-5-inch-sff-solid-state-drive.html?campai...

The SSD will come with any software that you need to complete the install.  This is simply an example of what you need.

The specifications don't mention any M.2 socket on the motherboard.  You will have to use one of the free drive bays to add it.  Here is the Product Specifications page for the computer: https://support.hp.com/us-en/product/hp-compaq-elite-8300-ultra-slim-pc/5232866/document/c03345460

The specifications show that there are 3 - 3.5" internal drive bays.  You will have to use a 2.5" to 3.5" adapter to install the SSD.  If you want to use the SSD as the boot drive, follow the instruction in this HP Knowledge Base article: https://h30434.www3.hp.com/t5/Desktop-Knowledge-Base/Upgrading-Desktop-or-Laptop-to-a-SSD/ta-p/73048...

You will most likely need to buy a SATA data cable.  I suggest choosing a SSD manufacturer and contact their Tech Support for further help.  Check to assure there is a spare SATA power connector available.

Please click the Thumbs up + button if I have helped you and click Accept as Solution if your problem is solved.

[wb2001]

@1ben2 

It also has an mSata socket, as described here.    The physical socket is shown here, on page 210.

[1ben2]

Dear Old Geekster, WB2001,

Thanks for the reactions.

i have now a sata HDD and i'm sure I can replace it by a sata SSD version.  What I'm after is to add a Mini SSD which plugs in directly on a connector which is mounted on the motherboard itself and to be able to put my Windows 10 on it.

Could I use any "standard" mini SSD?

[wb2001 · Accepted solution]

@1ben2,

The manual on pg 62 only makes reference to a 24GB mSATA device.   It has been proven not to work as a boot device, as shown here.  The unit ic circa late 2012.  Do what you want, but do not expect performance.