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BSOD during installation at "Getting Windows Ready".

garfish316

garfish316

Member
Joined
Apr 30, 2026
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12
Hello:

I upgraded my m2 ssd to 4 TB in an HP Omni-book X 16 (16-ar0013dx) laptop. During installation, on the "Getting windows ready" part, I all of a sudden got a looping BSOD. My ram (16gb) is built into the motherboard and is not upgradeable. I tried cloning, that didn't work. I can't get into windows recovery since it's an installation. I tried using Windows Media Creation tool, but the BIOS doesn't recognize the USB in the boot order. I even ordered a new Windows Pro 11 usb, which it will arrive in 2 days (I thought it was that). Can anyone help? Thanks! ......Garett
 

Hi Garett,
Yes — this is very likely fixable, and the most likely problem is the install media, not the soldered RAM.
Your HP OmniBook X 16 is an Arm-based Snapdragon X laptop, and Microsoft says the Windows Media Creation Tool does not currently create Arm64 bootable media. For these systems, you need either official Windows 11 Arm64 media or HP recovery media. Microsoft also notes that Snapdragon X Series devices can boot generic Arm64 Windows media, but some device functions may not fully work until Windows Update pulls the remaining drivers after setup. (learn.microsoft.com)
HP’s boot documentation also says that on consumer notebooks you should use Esc for Startup Menu, F9 for Boot Device Options, and F10 for BIOS Setup. HP also shows that USB is normally part of the UEFI boot order, so if your USB never appears, the usual causes are wrong media, USB boot disabled, or Secure Boot rejecting that stick.

What I would do next​

1. Do not wipe the original SSD​

If you still have the old drive, keep it untouched for now.
That gives you:
  1. A fallback if the new SSD or install media is the problem.
  2. A way to make recovery media from the original system if needed.
  3. A way to confirm the laptop itself is still healthy.

2. Create the correct USB​

On another Windows PC:
  1. Download the official Windows 11 Arm64 ISO from Microsoft’s Windows 11 for Arm-based PCs page.
  2. Do not use Media Creation Tool for this machine.
  3. Use Rufus to write the ISO to a 16 GB+ USB flash drive.
  4. Choose GPT / UEFI when Rufus asks.
Microsoft explicitly says Arm64 ISOs can be used to create bootable USB media, and also says Media Creation Tool does not currently support making Arm64 boot media. (learn.microsoft.com)

3. Boot the HP from that USB​

  1. Power the laptop fully off.
  2. Insert the new USB.
  3. Power on and immediately tap Esc repeatedly.
  4. When the Startup Menu appears, press F9 for Boot Device Options.
  5. Select the USB device if it appears.
If the USB still does not appear:
  1. Press Esc, then F10 for BIOS.
  2. Go to Boot Options.
  3. Make sure USB Boot is enabled.
  4. Check that UEFI boot order includes USB.
  5. Save and try again.
If it still is not detected, I would try:
  1. A different USB flash drive.
  2. A different USB port or adapter.
  3. Temporarily disabling Secure Boot just long enough to test the USB, then turning it back on afterward.
HP’s docs confirm those startup keys and that USB is part of the normal UEFI boot path.

4. Do a clean install onto the 4 TB SSD​

Once Windows Setup starts:
  1. Choose Custom: Install Windows only.
  2. On the drive selection screen, delete every partition on the new 4 TB SSD.
  3. Select the unallocated space.
  4. Let Windows create the partitions automatically.
  5. Continue setup.
This is better than trying to reuse mismatched partitions from a failed clone.

5. After setup, get drivers loaded​

Microsoft says Snapdragon X systems can install from generic Arm64 media, but won’t necessarily have full functionality until the rest of the drivers are installed from Windows Update. If Wi‑Fi is missing at first, use a USB Ethernet adapter or dock if you have one. (learn.microsoft.com)

Important warning about the USB you already ordered​

If the “Windows 11 Pro USB” you bought is a normal retail/x64 installer, it may not be the right media for this laptop. For your HP, it needs to be Arm64 or model-specific HP recovery media. If the listing does not clearly say Arm or Arm64, I would assume it is the wrong one. Microsoft has a separate Arm download path for these systems. (microsoft.com)

If it still BSODs after using proper Arm64 media​

Then I’d check these in order:
  1. Put the original SSD back in and see whether the laptop boots normally.
  2. If the old SSD works, the issue is likely:
    • bad install media,
    • bad/new SSD incompatibility,
    • or partitioning/setup corruption.
  3. If the old SSD also fails, then we look at:
    • BIOS/firmware issue,
    • hardware problem,
    • or a damaged connector/SSD seating issue.

Please reply with these 3 details​

  1. Does your OmniBook boot normally again if you reinstall the original SSD?
  2. What is the exact BSOD stop code on the blue screen?
  3. Did you make the USB with x64 Windows 11 or Arm64 Windows 11?
If you want, I can give you a 10-minute exact Rufus + BIOS walkthrough for this HP so you can try it before the new USB even arrives.
 

ChatGPT said:
Hi Garett,
Yes — this is very likely fixable, and the most likely problem is the install media, not the soldered RAM.
Your HP OmniBook X 16 is an Arm-based Snapdragon X laptop, and Microsoft says the Windows Media Creation Tool does not currently create Arm64 bootable media. For these systems, you need either official Windows 11 Arm64 media or HP recovery media. Microsoft also notes that Snapdragon X Series devices can boot generic Arm64 Windows media, but some device functions may not fully work until Windows Update pulls the remaining drivers after setup. (learn.microsoft.com)
HP’s boot documentation also says that on consumer notebooks you should use Esc for Startup Menu, F9 for Boot Device Options, and F10 for BIOS Setup. HP also shows that USB is normally part of the UEFI boot order, so if your USB never appears, the usual causes are wrong media, USB boot disabled, or Secure Boot rejecting that stick. (support.hp.com)

What I would do next​

1. Do not wipe the original SSD​

If you still have the old drive, keep it untouched for now.
That gives you:
  1. A fallback if the new SSD or install media is the problem.
  2. A way to make recovery media from the original system if needed.
  3. A way to confirm the laptop itself is still healthy.

2. Create the correct USB​

On another Windows PC:
  1. Download the official Windows 11 Arm64 ISO from Microsoft’s Windows 11 for Arm-based PCs page.
  2. Do not use Media Creation Tool for this machine.
  3. Use Rufus to write the ISO to a 16 GB+ USB flash drive.
  4. Choose GPT / UEFI when Rufus asks.
Microsoft explicitly says Arm64 ISOs can be used to create bootable USB media, and also says Media Creation Tool does not currently support making Arm64 boot media. (learn.microsoft.com)

3. Boot the HP from that USB​

  1. Power the laptop fully off.
  2. Insert the new USB.
  3. Power on and immediately tap Esc repeatedly.
  4. When the Startup Menu appears, press F9 for Boot Device Options.
  5. Select the USB device if it appears.
If the USB still does not appear:
  1. Press Esc, then F10 for BIOS.
  2. Go to Boot Options.
  3. Make sure USB Boot is enabled.
  4. Check that UEFI boot order includes USB.
  5. Save and try again.
If it still is not detected, I would try:
  1. A different USB flash drive.
  2. A different USB port or adapter.
  3. Temporarily disabling Secure Boot just long enough to test the USB, then turning it back on afterward.
HP’s docs confirm those startup keys and that USB is part of the normal UEFI boot path. (support.hp.com)

4. Do a clean install onto the 4 TB SSD​

Once Windows Setup starts:
  1. Choose Custom: Install Windows only.
  2. On the drive selection screen, delete every partition on the new 4 TB SSD.
  3. Select the unallocated space.
  4. Let Windows create the partitions automatically.
  5. Continue setup.
This is better than trying to reuse mismatched partitions from a failed clone.

5. After setup, get drivers loaded​

Microsoft says Snapdragon X systems can install from generic Arm64 media, but won’t necessarily have full functionality until the rest of the drivers are installed from Windows Update. If Wi‑Fi is missing at first, use a USB Ethernet adapter or dock if you have one. (learn.microsoft.com)

Important warning about the USB you already ordered​

If the “Windows 11 Pro USB” you bought is a normal retail/x64 installer, it may not be the right media for this laptop. For your HP, it needs to be Arm64 or model-specific HP recovery media. If the listing does not clearly say Arm or Arm64, I would assume it is the wrong one. Microsoft has a separate Arm download path for these systems. (microsoft.com)

If it still BSODs after using proper Arm64 media​

Then I’d check these in order:
  1. Put the original SSD back in and see whether the laptop boots normally.
  2. If the old SSD works, the issue is likely:
    • bad install media,
    • bad/new SSD incompatibility,
    • or partitioning/setup corruption.
  3. If the old SSD also fails, then we look at:
    • BIOS/firmware issue,
    • hardware problem,
    • or a damaged connector/SSD seating issue.

Please reply with these 3 details​

  1. Does your OmniBook boot normally again if you reinstall the original SSD?
  2. What is the exact BSOD stop code on the blue screen?
  3. Did you make the USB with x64 Windows 11 or Arm64 Windows 11?
If you want, I can give you a 10-minute exact Rufus + BIOS walkthrough for this HP so you can try it before the new USB even arrives.
Click to expand...
1. Yes
2. I don't have those details.
3. I ordered a new windows 11 pro usb x64

Yes, please show me how to use rufus.
 

Hi Garett,
Thanks for the correction — your follow-up shows this is the AMD Ryzen AI 5 version, and that the original SSD still boots, so my earlier Snapdragon/Arm assumption was wrong. That also means the issue is more likely the new SSD / install media / boot path than the soldered RAM. e AMD/x64 version, you want the normal Windows 11 x64 installer. Microsoft’s current Windows 11 page says the Media Creation Tool and Installation Assistant are for x64 processors, and it also offers a Windows 11 x64 ISO for bootable media. (microsoft.com)

Rufus walkthrough​

1. Download what you need​

  1. Use the original SSD or another working Windows PC.
  2. Back up anything important first.
  3. Download the official Windows 11 x64 ISO from Microsoft.
  4. Download Rufus from the official Rufus site. Rufus can create a bootable USB from an ISO and does not need installation. (microsoft.com)

2. Create the USB in Rufus​

  1. Insert a blank 16 GB or larger USB flash drive.
  2. Open Rufus.
  3. Under Device, pick the USB drive.
  4. Under Boot selection, choose the Windows 11 ISO.
  5. Set Image option to Standard Windows installation.
  6. Set Partition scheme to GPT.
  7. Set Target system to UEFI (non CSM).
  8. Leave File system at Rufus’s default.
  9. Click Start.
  10. If Rufus shows extra Windows options, leave them at default for now.
HP uses a UEFI boot path, and Rufus specifically warns that the target system must match UEFI vs BIOS.

3. Boot the HP from the USB​

  1. Shut the laptop down fully.
  2. Insert the new USB.
  3. Power on and tap Esc repeatedly.
  4. At the Startup Menu, press F9 for Boot Device Options.
  5. Select the USB drive.
HP’s docs show Esc for Startup Menu, F9 for Boot Device Options, and F10 for BIOS Setup, and HP’s normal UEFI boot order includes USB.

4. If the USB still does not appear​

  1. Press Esc, then F10.
  2. Check that USB Boot is enabled.
  3. Check that the machine is using UEFI boot order.
  4. Save changes and try Esc > F9 again.
  5. If it still does not show, temporarily disable Secure Boot just to test the installer.
Microsoft notes that if the USB device is missing from boot options, you may need to temporarily disable Secure Boot. (microsoft.com)

5. Install Windows cleanly on the 4 TB SSD​

  1. Start from the USB.
  2. Choose Custom: Install Windows only.
  3. On the disk screen, delete the partitions on the new internal SSD until it becomes Unallocated Space.
  4. Select that unallocated space and click Next.
Microsoft’s reinstall guide describes deleting the partitions on the target disk until only Unallocated Space remains, then proceeding with setup.

My recommendation​

  1. Do not wait for the retail USB.
  2. Make your own official Microsoft x64 USB with Rufus today.
  3. Skip cloning for now.
  4. If it BSODs again, take a phone photo of the exact stop code.
  5. Also post the brand and exact model of the 4 TB SSD.
If you want, I can give you a very short “click this, then this” Rufus checklist next.
 

ChatGPT said:
Hi Garett,
Thanks for the correction — your follow-up shows this is the AMD Ryzen AI 5 version, and that the original SSD still boots, so my earlier Snapdragon/Arm assumption was wrong. That also means the issue is more likely the new SSD / install media / boot path than the soldered RAM. e AMD/x64 version, you want the normal Windows 11 x64 installer. Microsoft’s current Windows 11 page says the Media Creation Tool and Installation Assistant are for x64 processors, and it also offers a Windows 11 x64 ISO for bootable media. (microsoft.com)

Rufus walkthrough​

1. Download what you need​

  1. Use the original SSD or another working Windows PC.
  2. Back up anything important first.
  3. Download the official Windows 11 x64 ISO from Microsoft.
  4. Download Rufus from the official Rufus site. Rufus can create a bootable USB from an ISO and does not need installation. (microsoft.com)

2. Create the USB in Rufus​

  1. Insert a blank 16 GB or larger USB flash drive.
  2. Open Rufus.
  3. Under Device, pick the USB drive.
  4. Under Boot selection, choose the Windows 11 ISO.
  5. Set Image option to Standard Windows installation.
  6. Set Partition scheme to GPT.
  7. Set Target system to UEFI (non CSM).
  8. Leave File system at Rufus’s default.
  9. Click Start.
  10. If Rufus shows extra Windows options, leave them at default for now.
HP uses a UEFI boot path, and Rufus specifically warns that the target system must match UEFI vs BIOS. (support.hp.com)

3. Boot the HP from the USB​

  1. Shut the laptop down fully.
  2. Insert the new USB.
  3. Power on and tap Esc repeatedly.
  4. At the Startup Menu, press F9 for Boot Device Options.
  5. Select the USB drive.
HP’s docs show Esc for Startup Menu, F9 for Boot Device Options, and F10 for BIOS Setup, and HP’s normal UEFI boot order includes USB. (support.hp.com)

4. If the USB still does not appear​

  1. Press Esc, then F10.
  2. Check that USB Boot is enabled.
  3. Check that the machine is using UEFI boot order.
  4. Save changes and try Esc > F9 again.
  5. If it still does not show, temporarily disable Secure Boot just to test the installer.
Microsoft notes that if the USB device is missing from boot options, you may need to temporarily disable Secure Boot. (microsoft.com)

5. Install Windows cleanly on the 4 TB SSD​

  1. Start from the USB.
  2. Choose Custom: Install Windows only.
  3. On the disk screen, delete the partitions on the new internal SSD until it becomes Unallocated Space.
  4. Select that unallocated space and click Next.
Microsoft’s reinstall guide describes deleting the partitions on the target disk until only Unallocated Space remains, then proceeding with setup. (support.microsoft.com)

My recommendation​

  1. Do not wait for the retail USB.
  2. Make your own official Microsoft x64 USB with Rufus today.
  3. Skip cloning for now.
  4. If it BSODs again, take a phone photo of the exact stop code.
  5. Also post the brand and exact model of the 4 TB SSD.
If you want, I can give you a very short “click this, then this” Rufus checklist next.
Click to expand...
The SSD is a Crucial T710 PCIE Gen 5NVMe, up to 14,900 MB/s.
 

That helps a lot.

Most likely issue now​

Your Crucial T710 4 TB is probably the main suspect, not the Windows USB. Here’s why:
  1. HP’s published specs for the OmniBook X Flip 16-ar0000 series list factory SSD options as PCIe Gen 4 x4 NVMe M.2, with capacities of 512 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB. HP does not list a 4 TB option for that family.
  2. Crucial says a Gen5 NVMe SSD is backward compatible and can work in a Gen4 system, but it also says you must verify compatibility with the system manual/manufacturer. (crucial.com)
  3. Crucial’s T710 flyer says the drive comes in 1 TB, 2 TB, and 4 TB versions, and that there is an optional integrated heatsink version. It also says the non-heatsink version is aimed at laptops. (crucial.com)
So the short version is:
  • Gen5 itself is not automatically the problem
  • But 4 TB + this exact HP model is outside HP’s documented storage configs, which makes SSD compatibility the first thing I would question.

My recommendation​

1. Check whether your T710 has a heatsink​

If you bought the heatsink version, do not use it in this laptop. Laptop M.2 bays usually require the bare / non-heatsink version, and Crucial specifically separates those versions in its product flyer. (crucial.com)

2. Update the BIOS using the original SSD​

Since the original SSD still boots, do this first:
  1. Reinstall the original SSD.
  2. Boot into Windows.
  3. Run HP Support Assistant or HP’s BIOS update process.
  4. Install the latest BIOS for the machine.
  5. Shut down and retry the new SSD.
HP says BIOS updates are recommended maintenance and can improve support for hardware components and Windows upgrades. HP also says you can update BIOS from Windows or, if needed, from USB.

3. Still make the Rufus USB​

Your AMD system needs the normal Windows 11 x64 installer. Microsoft’s Windows 11 download page says the Media Creation Tool is for x64 processors, and it also provides the x64 ISO.

4. If the clean install still BSODs on the T710, stop there​

At that point I would treat the T710 as not a good match for this HP, even if it is technically backward compatible. (crucial.com)

What I would buy instead​

For the highest chance of success, I would use:
  1. A PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 2280
  2. No heatsink
  3. Ideally 2 TB, because that is the largest capacity HP actually lists for this series
A 4 TB Gen4 drive might still work in practice, but HP’s own published config only goes up to 2 TB, so if you want the safest route, stay within that. That last part is my inference based on HP’s published specs, not a direct HP statement.

Best next step​

Please reply with one thing:
  • Is your T710 the bare drive or the heatsink model?
If you want, I can also give you a “go / no-go” checklist for whether to keep the T710 or return it and swap to a Gen4 drive.
 

I bought the non-heatsink verion. I plan to try the HP Recovery tool later on today. I updated the BIOS upon getting home.
 

Hi Garett,
Good — non-heatsink is the right version for a laptop, and updating the BIOS first was exactly the right move. Crucial says Gen5 NVMe drives are backward compatible with Gen4 systems, but compatibility still depends on the laptop/platform, and HP’s published specs for the 16-ar0000 series list factory SSD options only as PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe in 512 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB capacities. That does not prove your 4 TB T710 cannot work, but it does make the SSD itself a remaining compatibility suspect if recovery/install still fails.

What I’d do next​

1. Try HP Cloud Recovery Tool first​

This is the best next test because it creates HP’s own recovery image for supported consumer PCs, which is more model-specific than a generic Windows install. HP says the tool is for consumer PCs, requires a blank 64 GB USB drive, works best with AC power, and recommends keeping the PC on a stable internet connection during creation.

2. Use this exact process​

  1. Put the original SSD back in if needed so you can run Windows normally.
  2. Download and run HP Cloud Recovery Tool as administrator.
  3. Use a blank 64 GB or larger USB.
  4. Keep the laptop plugged into AC power the whole time.
  5. If possible, use the most stable connection available while it builds the media.
  6. After the recovery USB is created, shut down.
  7. Reinstall the Crucial T710.
  8. Boot the HP and use Esc, then F9, to select the recovery USB. HP’s Startup Menu and Boot Device Options are accessed that way on consumer notebooks.

3. If the recovery USB boots​

That is a good sign. Then:
  1. Choose the recovery/install option for a full reinstall.
  2. On the disk selection screen, delete all partitions on the new SSD.
  3. Install to the resulting Unallocated Space.
  4. Let the process finish without forcing restarts. Microsoft’s reinstall guidance says to delete the target disk’s partitions until only Unallocated Space remains, then continue.

What the result means​

If HP Recovery works​

Then your issue was probably:
  1. The earlier install media.
  2. Partitioning/cloning leftovers.
  3. A driver/setup mismatch during generic install.

If HP Recovery also BSODs or loops​

Then I would move the spotlight back to the T710 itself. Since the BIOS is updated, the drive is non-heatsink, and HP’s own recovery image would remove most software/media variables, a repeated failure after that would strongly suggest a drive compatibility issue with this model. That’s an inference, but it is the most likely one based on HP’s documented Gen4 storage configs and Crucial’s own note to verify platform compatibility.

One quick check before you start​

In BIOS, see whether the new SSD is detected with the expected size. If the BIOS sees the T710 consistently, that’s better than not seeing it at all, but it still doesn’t guarantee Windows setup compatibility. HP’s BIOS menu includes storage/boot-related information and boot options, so it’s worth confirming before running recovery.

My recommendation if this still fails​

If HP Recovery fails on the T710 after the BIOS update, I would seriously consider returning it and switching to a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 2280 drive. Staying closer to HP’s documented storage class gives you the best odds. HP officially lists up to 2 TB Gen4 for this series.
After you try HP Recovery, post back with one of these three outcomes:
  1. USB boots and recovery starts
  2. USB does not appear in F9
  3. Recovery starts but BSODs again
If you want, I can also give you a very short HP Recovery Tool checklist before you begin.
 

ChatGPT said:
Hi Garett,
Good — non-heatsink is the right version for a laptop, and updating the BIOS first was exactly the right move. Crucial says Gen5 NVMe drives are backward compatible with Gen4 systems, but compatibility still depends on the laptop/platform, and HP’s published specs for the 16-ar0000 series list factory SSD options only as PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe in 512 GB, 1 TB, and 2 TB capacities. That does not prove your 4 TB T710 cannot work, but it does make the SSD itself a remaining compatibility suspect if recovery/install still fails. (support.hp.com)

What I’d do next​

1. Try HP Cloud Recovery Tool first​

This is the best next test because it creates HP’s own recovery image for supported consumer PCs, which is more model-specific than a generic Windows install. HP says the tool is for consumer PCs, requires a blank 64 GB USB drive, works best with AC power, and recommends keeping the PC on a stable internet connection during creation. (support.hp.com)

2. Use this exact process​

  1. Put the original SSD back in if needed so you can run Windows normally.
  2. Download and run HP Cloud Recovery Tool as administrator.
  3. Use a blank 64 GB or larger USB.
  4. Keep the laptop plugged into AC power the whole time.
  5. If possible, use the most stable connection available while it builds the media.
  6. After the recovery USB is created, shut down.
  7. Reinstall the Crucial T710.
  8. Boot the HP and use Esc, then F9, to select the recovery USB. HP’s Startup Menu and Boot Device Options are accessed that way on consumer notebooks. (support.hp.com)

3. If the recovery USB boots​

That is a good sign. Then:
  1. Choose the recovery/install option for a full reinstall.
  2. On the disk selection screen, delete all partitions on the new SSD.
  3. Install to the resulting Unallocated Space.
  4. Let the process finish without forcing restarts. Microsoft’s reinstall guidance says to delete the target disk’s partitions until only Unallocated Space remains, then continue.

What the result means​

If HP Recovery works​

Then your issue was probably:
  1. The earlier install media.
  2. Partitioning/cloning leftovers.
  3. A driver/setup mismatch during generic install.

If HP Recovery also BSODs or loops​

Then I would move the spotlight back to the T710 itself. Since the BIOS is updated, the drive is non-heatsink, and HP’s own recovery image would remove most software/media variables, a repeated failure after that would strongly suggest a drive compatibility issue with this model. That’s an inference, but it is the most likely one based on HP’s documented Gen4 storage configs and Crucial’s own note to verify platform compatibility. (support.hp.com)

One quick check before you start​

In BIOS, see whether the new SSD is detected with the expected size. If the BIOS sees the T710 consistently, that’s better than not seeing it at all, but it still doesn’t guarantee Windows setup compatibility. HP’s BIOS menu includes storage/boot-related information and boot options, so it’s worth confirming before running recovery.

My recommendation if this still fails​

If HP Recovery fails on the T710 after the BIOS update, I would seriously consider returning it and switching to a PCIe Gen4 x4 NVMe M.2 2280 drive. Staying closer to HP’s documented storage class gives you the best odds. HP officially lists up to 2 TB Gen4 for this series. (support.hp.com)
After you try HP Recovery, post back with one of these three outcomes:
  1. USB boots and recovery starts
  2. USB does not appear in F9
  3. Recovery starts but BSODs again
If you want, I can also give you a very short HP Recovery Tool checklist before you begin.
Click to expand...
Please send the HP Recovery Tool Checklist.
 

Hi Garett,
Absolutely — here is the short HP Recovery Tool checklist.

HP Recovery Tool Checklist​

Before you start​

  1. Put the original SSD back in so Windows boots normally.
  2. Plug the laptop into AC power.
  3. Have a blank 64 GB or larger USB flash drive ready.
  4. Use a stable internet connection.
  5. Back up anything important on that USB, because it will be erased. HP says the Cloud Recovery Tool for consumer PCs needs a blank 64 GB USB, works best on AC power, and can take 1 to 4 hours depending on network speed and the USB drive.

Create the recovery USB​

  1. In Windows, install HP Cloud Recovery Tool.
  2. Run it as Administrator.
  3. Insert the blank USB drive.
  4. Let the tool detect your HP model automatically.
  5. Follow the prompts to download and build the recovery USB.
  6. Do not unplug power or internet while it is working. HP recommends keeping the PC on AC power and not disconnecting the network during the process.

Boot from the recovery USB​

  1. Shut the laptop down completely.
  2. Swap in the Crucial T710.
  3. Insert the new recovery USB.
  4. Power on and tap Esc repeatedly.
  5. At the Startup Menu, press F9 for Boot Device Options.
  6. Select the USB drive. HP’s consumer notebook BIOS guide says Esc opens the Startup Menu, F9 is for boot options, and USB Boot / UEFI Boot Order are managed in BIOS if needed.

If the USB does not appear​

  1. Press Esc, then F10 to enter BIOS.
  2. Make sure USB Boot is enabled.
  3. Check UEFI Boot Order.
  4. Save changes and try Esc > F9 again. HP documents USB Boot and UEFI Boot Order in the BIOS Boot Options menu.

When recovery starts​

  1. Choose the option for a full recovery / reinstall.
  2. If you reach the drive screen, delete all partitions on the new SSD only.
  3. Select Unallocated Space.
  4. Continue and let setup finish without interrupting it. Microsoft’s reinstall guidance says to delete the target disk’s partitions until only Unallocated Space remains, then proceed.

What to report back​

Please post one result:
  1. USB boots and recovery starts
  2. USB does not appear in F9
  3. Recovery starts but BSODs again
If you want, after you try it, I can help you interpret exactly what the result means.
 

ChatGPT said:
Hi Garett,
Absolutely — here is the short HP Recovery Tool checklist.

HP Recovery Tool Checklist​

Before you start​

  1. Put the original SSD back in so Windows boots normally.
  2. Plug the laptop into AC power.
  3. Have a blank 64 GB or larger USB flash drive ready.
  4. Use a stable internet connection.
  5. Back up anything important on that USB, because it will be erased. HP says the Cloud Recovery Tool for consumer PCs needs a blank 64 GB USB, works best on AC power, and can take 1 to 4 hours depending on network speed and the USB drive.

Create the recovery USB​

  1. In Windows, install HP Cloud Recovery Tool.
  2. Run it as Administrator.
  3. Insert the blank USB drive.
  4. Let the tool detect your HP model automatically.
  5. Follow the prompts to download and build the recovery USB.
  6. Do not unplug power or internet while it is working. HP recommends keeping the PC on AC power and not disconnecting the network during the process.

Boot from the recovery USB​

  1. Shut the laptop down completely.
  2. Swap in the Crucial T710.
  3. Insert the new recovery USB.
  4. Power on and tap Esc repeatedly.
  5. At the Startup Menu, press F9 for Boot Device Options.
  6. Select the USB drive. HP’s consumer notebook BIOS guide says Esc opens the Startup Menu, F9 is for boot options, and USB Boot / UEFI Boot Order are managed in BIOS if needed.

If the USB does not appear​

  1. Press Esc, then F10 to enter BIOS.
  2. Make sure USB Boot is enabled.
  3. Check UEFI Boot Order.
  4. Save changes and try Esc > F9 again. HP documents USB Boot and UEFI Boot Order in the BIOS Boot Options menu.

When recovery starts​

  1. Choose the option for a full recovery / reinstall.
  2. If you reach the drive screen, delete all partitions on the new SSD only.
  3. Select Unallocated Space.
  4. Continue and let setup finish without interrupting it. Microsoft’s reinstall guidance says to delete the target disk’s partitions until only Unallocated Space remains, then proceed.

What to report back​

Please post one result:
  1. USB boots and recovery starts
  2. USB does not appear in F9
  3. Recovery starts but BSODs again
If you want, after you try it, I can help you interpret exactly what the result means.
Click to expand...
If I choose not to put the old NVMe back in to do the HP Recovery Tool, can you send me instuctions on doing the HP Recovery Tool?
 

Yes — you can skip putting the old NVMe back in if you have access to another working Windows PC to create the HP recovery USB. The HP Cloud Recovery Tool runs inside Windows, so you need some Windows computer to build the USB first; it does not run directly from BIOS. HP’s consumer Cloud Recovery docs say to run the tool in Windows as administrator and use a blank 64 GB USB drive connected to the internet.

If you do not put the old NVMe back in​

What you need​

  1. Another working Windows 10/11 64-bit PC.
  2. A blank 64 GB or larger USB flash drive.
  3. Your HP laptop’s Product ID from the bottom label or box if the tool asks for it. HP’s recovery flow notes that when you download recovery media on a different computer, you may need to select “I need to enter Product ID for my HP system” and enter the affected system’s info.

HP Recovery Tool instructions without the old SSD​

1. Create the recovery USB on another Windows PC​

  1. On the other Windows PC, install HP Cloud Recovery Tool.
  2. Insert the blank 64 GB+ USB drive.
  3. Right-click HP Cloud Recovery Tool and choose Run as administrator.
  4. Click Next.
  5. If the tool cannot auto-detect your laptop, choose “I need to enter Product ID for my HP system.”
  6. Enter your HP laptop’s Product ID.
  7. Select the USB drive.
  8. Let the tool download and create the recovery media.
  9. Keep the PC on AC power and online until it finishes. HP says the USB is erased and will contain only the recovery software when complete.

2. Boot your HP laptop from that recovery USB​

  1. Install the Crucial T710 in the laptop.
  2. Insert the recovery USB.
  3. Power on and tap Esc repeatedly.
  4. At the Startup Menu, press F9 for Boot Device Options.
  5. Select the USB drive. HP’s BIOS documentation says Esc opens Startup Menu and BIOS Boot Options include USB Boot and UEFI Boot Order.

3. If the USB does not appear​

  1. Press Esc, then F10.
  2. Make sure USB Boot is enabled.
  3. Check UEFI Boot Order.
  4. Save changes and try Esc > F9 again.

4. When HP recovery starts​

  1. Choose the full recovery / reinstall option.
  2. If you reach the disk screen, delete partitions on the new SSD only.
  3. Select Unallocated Space.
  4. Continue and let recovery finish. Microsoft’s reinstall guidance says to delete the target disk’s partitions until only Unallocated Space remains, then proceed.

Short answer​

  • If you have another Windows PC: yes, you do not need to put the old NVMe back in.
  • If you do not have another Windows PC: then yes, you would need the old SSD back in temporarily so you can run the tool.
If you want, I can give you a one-minute checklist for the Product ID screen next.
 

ChatGPT said:
Yes — you can skip putting the old NVMe back in if you have access to another working Windows PC to create the HP recovery USB. The HP Cloud Recovery Tool runs inside Windows, so you need some Windows computer to build the USB first; it does not run directly from BIOS. HP’s consumer Cloud Recovery docs say to run the tool in Windows as administrator and use a blank 64 GB USB drive connected to the internet.

If you do not put the old NVMe back in​

What you need​

  1. Another working Windows 10/11 64-bit PC.
  2. A blank 64 GB or larger USB flash drive.
  3. Your HP laptop’s Product ID from the bottom label or box if the tool asks for it. HP’s recovery flow notes that when you download recovery media on a different computer, you may need to select “I need to enter Product ID for my HP system” and enter the affected system’s info.

HP Recovery Tool instructions without the old SSD​

1. Create the recovery USB on another Windows PC​

  1. On the other Windows PC, install HP Cloud Recovery Tool.
  2. Insert the blank 64 GB+ USB drive.
  3. Right-click HP Cloud Recovery Tool and choose Run as administrator.
  4. Click Next.
  5. If the tool cannot auto-detect your laptop, choose “I need to enter Product ID for my HP system.”
  6. Enter your HP laptop’s Product ID.
  7. Select the USB drive.
  8. Let the tool download and create the recovery media.
  9. Keep the PC on AC power and online until it finishes. HP says the USB is erased and will contain only the recovery software when complete.

2. Boot your HP laptop from that recovery USB​

  1. Install the Crucial T710 in the laptop.
  2. Insert the recovery USB.
  3. Power on and tap Esc repeatedly.
  4. At the Startup Menu, press F9 for Boot Device Options.
  5. Select the USB drive. HP’s BIOS documentation says Esc opens Startup Menu and BIOS Boot Options include USB Boot and UEFI Boot Order.

3. If the USB does not appear​

  1. Press Esc, then F10.
  2. Make sure USB Boot is enabled.
  3. Check UEFI Boot Order.
  4. Save changes and try Esc > F9 again.

4. When HP recovery starts​

  1. Choose the full recovery / reinstall option.
  2. If you reach the disk screen, delete partitions on the new SSD only.
  3. Select Unallocated Space.
  4. Continue and let recovery finish. Microsoft’s reinstall guidance says to delete the target disk’s partitions until only Unallocated Space remains, then proceed.

Short answer​

  • If you have another Windows PC: yes, you do not need to put the old NVMe back in.
  • If you do not have another Windows PC: then yes, you would need the old SSD back in temporarily so you can run the tool.
If you want, I can give you a one-minute checklist for the Product ID screen next.
Click to expand...
The HP Media Recovery Tool doesn't recognize my usb flash drive.
 

Hi Garett,
That usually means one of three things: the stick is too small, the tool sees it as not selectable, or the USB needs to be wiped/re-partitioned first. HP’s consumer Cloud Recovery guide says to use a blank USB flash drive and their consumer documentation commonly lists 64 GB minimum; HP’s recovery docs also mention a “Disk not selectable” message and say to make sure the USB has the required free space.

Try this first​

1. Confirm the USB itself​

  1. Make sure it is a real USB flash drive, not an external SSD/HDD.
  2. Make sure it is 64 GB or larger.
  3. Try a different USB port on the Windows PC.
  4. Close HP Recovery Tool, unplug the USB, plug it back in, then reopen the tool as Administrator. HP says to run the tool in Windows as administrator with a blank USB flash drive connected.

2. Wipe the USB completely​

If the tool still does not see it, clean the USB in Windows first.
  1. On the Windows PC, right-click Start and open Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Run these commands carefully:
Code: 
diskpart
list disk
select disk X
clean
create partition primary
format fs=ntfs quick
assign
exit
  1. Replace X with the correct USB disk number.
  2. Then reopen HP Cloud Recovery Tool and try again.
Microsoft’s diskpart documentation says clean removes all partition/volume formatting from the selected disk, create partition primary creates a new primary partition, and format can quick-format the volume. Be very careful to pick the correct disk number so you do not wipe the wrong drive.

If it still does not recognize the USB​

At that point, the fastest path is usually to try a different 64 GB or 128 GB USB flash drive. In practice, HP’s recovery tool can be picky even when Windows itself sees the drive, and HP’s own docs explicitly call for a blank USB flash drive with the required free space.

What I need from you​

Please reply with these 3 details:
  1. The exact size of the USB drive.
  2. The brand/model of the USB drive.
  3. Whether HP Recovery shows an actual message such as “Disk not selectable” or if the drive just doesn’t appear at all. HP documents that exact error text in its recovery guidance, so the wording matters.
If you want, I can stay with you and walk you through the diskpart cleanup step line by line before you press Enter.
 

ChatGPT said:
Hi Garett,
That usually means one of three things: the stick is too small, the tool sees it as not selectable, or the USB needs to be wiped/re-partitioned first. HP’s consumer Cloud Recovery guide says to use a blank USB flash drive and their consumer documentation commonly lists 64 GB minimum; HP’s recovery docs also mention a “Disk not selectable” message and say to make sure the USB has the required free space. (support.hp.com)

Try this first​

1. Confirm the USB itself​

  1. Make sure it is a real USB flash drive, not an external SSD/HDD.
  2. Make sure it is 64 GB or larger.
  3. Try a different USB port on the Windows PC.
  4. Close HP Recovery Tool, unplug the USB, plug it back in, then reopen the tool as Administrator. HP says to run the tool in Windows as administrator with a blank USB flash drive connected. (support.hp.com)

2. Wipe the USB completely​

If the tool still does not see it, clean the USB in Windows first.
  1. On the Windows PC, right-click Start and open Terminal (Admin) or Command Prompt (Admin).
  2. Run these commands carefully:
Code: 
diskpart
list disk
select disk X
clean
create partition primary
format fs=ntfs quick
assign
exit
  1. Replace X with the correct USB disk number.
  2. Then reopen HP Cloud Recovery Tool and try again.
Microsoft’s diskpart documentation says clean removes all partition/volume formatting from the selected disk, create partition primary creates a new primary partition, and format can quick-format the volume. Be very careful to pick the correct disk number so you do not wipe the wrong drive. (learn.microsoft.com)

If it still does not recognize the USB​

At that point, the fastest path is usually to try a different 64 GB or 128 GB USB flash drive. In practice, HP’s recovery tool can be picky even when Windows itself sees the drive, and HP’s own docs explicitly call for a blank USB flash drive with the required free space. (support.hp.com)

What I need from you​

Please reply with these 3 details:
  1. The exact size of the USB drive.
  2. The brand/model of the USB drive.
  3. Whether HP Recovery shows an actual message such as “Disk not selectable” or if the drive just doesn’t appear at all. HP documents that exact error text in its recovery guidance, so the wording matters. (support.hp.com)
If you want, I can stay with you and walk you through the diskpart cleanup step line by line before you press Enter.
Click to expand...
HP Recovery keeps recognizing my C drive
 

Yes — do not select C:.
If HP Cloud Recovery is showing only your C: drive, that means the tool is not recognizing your USB flash drive as a valid recovery target. On HP’s documented flow, the USB stage is supposed to let you select your USB flash drive from a drop-down list; HP also has a specific FAQ for “Disk not selectable.”

What to do right now​

1. Cancel out of the tool​

  1. Close HP Cloud Recovery Tool.
  2. Do not continue with C: selected.
  3. Unplug any other removable drives.

2. Make sure the tool is identifying the correct HP laptop​

If you are building the recovery USB on a different Windows PC, HP says you should check “I need to enter Product ID for my HP system” and manually enter your HP laptop’s product ID. Otherwise, the tool may detect the current PC instead of your HP.

3. Reconnect only one USB flash drive​

  1. Insert one blank 64 GB or larger USB flash drive.
  2. Run HP Cloud Recovery Tool as Administrator.
  3. Go back through the wizard.
  4. On the USB selection page, see if the flash drive appears instead of C:.
HP’s consumer Cloud Recovery instructions call for a blank USB flash drive and commonly specify 64 GB minimum for this process.

4. If it still only shows C:​

Then the USB stick is the problem, not the laptop.
Try these in order:
  1. Use a different USB flash drive.
  2. Prefer a simple 64 GB or 128 GB USB flash drive.
  3. Avoid using an external SSD/HDD.
  4. If needed, wipe the USB first with diskpart, then try again.
HP’s recovery docs specifically reference “Disk not selectable” and also note that if you cannot access the recovery USB properly, you might need to replace the USB flash drive.

Most likely cause​

Based on what you described, the HP tool is not accepting your current USB stick. If it only offers C:, I would stop fighting that specific drive and switch to a different flash drive first. That’s the fastest next move.

Reply with one thing​

Please tell me:
  • Are you creating the recovery USB on your HP laptop with the old SSD, or on a different Windows PC?
That will tell me whether your next step is:
  1. Check the Product ID box, or
  2. Replace/reformat the USB stick.
 

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