How to install non-OS files to a sepearate non-BOOT drive

[dugdiamond]

!!!USE WITH CAUTION!!!

I made a decision to load just Win 7 to the SSD C: drive, and all other program files and data to the G: drive.

The only obstacle was when loading some programs - they want to automatically install to the C: drive. The solution involved making a registry edit, so that the G: drive is now the default.

It works like a treat.

Instructions are:

1. Open the Registry Editor by selecting Start > Run > Regedit.
   
2. Navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion.
   
3. In the right pane, double-click ProgramFilesDir and change the path in the String Editor to the drive and folder you want (i.e. H:\Program Files). You must also modify the entry for ProgramFilesPath. If your path is H:\ like mine is, the path would be H:\Program Files
   
4. Exit the Registry Editor and restart your computer. My understanding is that some programs still require installation in the C:\Program Files folder, but I haven't found any yet.
   

NOTE:

It is best does do this directly after a fresh Win7 install.

Once done, all program files(x86) and program files folders MUST be copied to the new drive.

then reboot BEFORE delete the existing ones.

[DO NOT CUTnPASTE]

 

[fcb]

This is a great tutorial. Thank you very much for this Dug!

 

[S_I_N]

why not just use the custom install feature that is available with most proggies and change drive path to another drive???? This is what I do and it works well for me. This way I can easily manage what goes where.

 

[dugdiamond]

why not just use the custom install feature that is available with most proggies and change drive path to another drive???? This is what I do and it works well for me. This way I can easily manage what goes where.

not all installers have a customise option

 

[S_I_N]

not all installers have a customise option

true dat then those go on boot drive.

Well bro I was gonna +1 this thread but u a mod now so no +1's for ya lol. But great post