Need coaching: install via usb to external SSD

[danielson]

Have latest/greatest MX XFCE iso burned to Sandisk usb with Rufus.

Would like to install on spare usb connected SSD (instead of dual boot with Win).

Apparently, desktop makes it hard to install extra SSD (without removing CD part).

But, it has usb3 connection, so that explains my choice of "dual booting".

Suggestions please!

[CharlesV]

Are you able to boot onto the MX LiveUSB?

If you can, once booted up and at the MX desktop, *then* put in the USB you are trying to install to, wait a minute or so, and then look to see if that second usb drive is available.

If will help to have two different sized usb drives. (Easier to tell which one your attempting to install to. )

also you can use in a terminal the following to show you what is connected.

Code: Select all

lsusb

and

Code: Select all

lsblk

And I would suggest that you do those BEFORE you plug in the second USB drive. (ie the one you want to install too) .. and then do those again after you plug the second usb drive in... taking care to note the NAME of the second drive (sdb or sdc etc.)

Then, once in the installer, when asked which drive to install too.. you want to choose that second USB drive. ( by name) and then double check it again before going forward.

[danielson]

Sounds like a deal!

Also wanted to make sure nothing will be written over on the Windows side of things.

[CharlesV]

The *entire* key to this is to make sure you have the RIGHT disk when headed for the install! ( If your not 100% clear in the install - dont go any further! )

And, if you have access TO the inside of the machine then you could pull that hd / ssd and keep it laying on your desk while you do the install.)

I also should point out.. you can create a liveUSB with persistance and while it is not as good as an actual install ( in my opinion.). It WILL function and do quite a lot. I have people that run entirely on LiveUSB's and are very happy with it.

[Charlie Brown]

... Also keep usb on top in Boot sequence in Bios settings, as Grub will be there ...

[danielson]

To make things easier, was thinking of formatting within Windows first:

https://snipboard.io/E956et.jpg

[Charlie Brown]

... But ... why? Windows can stay there as is ...

[danielson]

It could be used on someone else's computer too, right?

[Charlie Brown]

Of course, I was thinking you wanted to dual boot and keep Windows untouched.

[danielson]

@Charlie Brown - keeping Windows untouched was 1st in line.

Just wanted to do it properly.

With all the yard work, haven't been able to focus to much on anything Linux these days.