Need help with fresh ssd install on MSI GE70 Apache pro

[dsmith500]

Hello all, first time post.

I have read as many posts here on the forum on my issue, and wanted to make sure my plan is correct, as well as try and get a few questions answered. I appreciate it!

I have a new GE70 Apache, and want to install the samsung evo msata SSD to mate with my HHD. I want to use the ssd for my W8 OS, and the HDD for storage. I have not installed an ssd before and would appreciate help with the steps.

My plan is:
-make burn recovery on my USB flash - is a 32GB USB enough?
-set boot priority to USB
-disconnect the HDD
-install the SSD
-boot off the USB
-install W8 onto the SSD - will I have issue with product key?
-restart laptop, enter BIOS and set boot priority to SSD
-make sure W8 is working on SSD
-format HDD - any specifics that i need to know about - i format to a "simple volume", correct?
-reload whatever storage/programs back on to HDD
-done

-any other important steps?
-what about the hidden recovery partition on the HDD - will the burn recovery install a new recovery partition when it installs the fresh W8?
-besides W8, what else does the burn recovery create, ie does it back up MSI OEM programs as well?
-is my apche already set to AHCI for ssd, or to I have to set this?

I appreciate the help - thanks!

 

[TechyInAZ]

AHCI should already be enabled.

LOL, 32GB is more than good enough, you can put a windows 8.1 iso on a 8GB thumb drive.

When you format the HDD, it will or should only have one clean partition. If not you can delete any other partitions later.

Besides that everything is perfect.