New SL install on SSD; moving user files over

Question

New SL install on SSD; moving user files over

I installed a new SSD and now have a fresh SL install up and running. I'd like to use the SSD for applications, and the older "regular" hard drive (still in the box) for user files. What would be the easiest way to get rid of all the application and SL stuff on the older hard drive, leaving it strictly for my user files (music, video, docs, etc.)? Should I just wipe the drive clean and pull the stuff in from Time Machine? Or is there some other approach to use? Thanks.

Posted on Jan 22, 2011 4:52 AM

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Answer 1

The hatter

Level 9

60,990 points

Jan 22, 2011 6:02 AM in response to Michael Winner

It might help if your profile showed hardware, Mac, as to how to proceed.

There are simple steps to have home folder any drive you want. Or to link applications to use alternate location for the media library and folders.

Clone your OS on the SSD now that you have it setup. You'll want to be able to clone it back with erase from time to time with most SSDs to restore performance.

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Answer 2

Jan 22, 2011 12:20 PM in response to The hatter

I'm running SL (still 10.6.4). I have figured out how to access my "old" home folder on the "old" HDD. I guess my question is whether I should do this, or start fresh on the old HDD: erase it and bring the various files back in with Time Machine, or some other approach? I'm basically trying to get as close to a "clean install" as I can.

If I go the route of accessing my "old" home folder on the "old" HDD, should I go ahead and delete the Application, Library, and System folders from the drive?

Any other ideas on what I might do here to get as close to the clean install thing as possible welcome.

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Answer 3

Pondini

Level 8

38,863 points

Jan 22, 2011 3:52 PM in response to Michael Winner

As long as you don't mind reinstalling your 3rd-party apps from the original discs (or re-downloading them) and re-entering any purchase keys / serial numbers, yes, that will work.

Delete the folders mentioned, but also delete the hidden system folders on the old HDD. Download the free [Tinker Tool|http://www.bresink.com/osx/TinkerTool.html] app. It allows you to change the Finder to show hidden files (among many other things). Select the first option under Finder, then click +Relaunch Finder+ at the bottom. Reverse this when done. Do not use any of the other options unless you know the possible consequences.

You might want to put one Admin user account on the SSD, so you can log on to your Mac when/if there's a problem with the HD.

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Answer 4

Apr 18, 2013 2:14 PM in response to Michael Winner

Old password reset & access for Mac position solution please help me this problem clear now.

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