This question is similar to my situation but does not provide a definitive answer:
How can I transfer Windows from a partition of an existing hard drive to a new (smaller) SSD?
It says clone the C: drive, but not the data drive, and then run System Repair.
I have a hard disk with Windows 7 system installed and three empty folders in the C: drive
- C:\Users\UserName\Music
- C:\Users\UserName\Pictures
- C:\Users\UserName\Videos
but none of the other standard User folders appear there.
The same disk has a data drive F: with these folders with stored files
- F:\Users\UserName\Contacts
- F:\Users\UserName\Desktop
- F:\Users\UserName\Documents
- F:\Users\UserName\Downloads
- F:\Users\UserName\Favorites
- F:\Users\UserName\Links
- F:\Users\UserName\Music
- F:\Users\UserName\Pictures
- F:\Users\UserName\Saved Games
- F:\Users\UserName\Searches
- F:\Users\UserName\Videos
I want to keep the data stored in the F: drive on the existing hard disk and clone only the C: drive to enable system boot from a new SSD.
What must I do before cloning the C: drive to the SSD so it will boot properly either with empty User folders in the default C: location or in the F: drive?
I don't mind rebuilding the F: drive on the SSD if necessary but I need the C: drive to boot without cloning any data.