Do SSDs have trouble getting into Safe Mode via F8

nine9s

Senior member
May 24, 2010
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I could not get into Safe Mode, in Windows 7, via the normal F8 method with my SSD system. I tried about 6 times (3 tries of rapidly pressing F8 as I always did on other systems and 3 tries of holding F8 down.) I found some messages on other PC oriented forums of other people have trouble. I never experienced this on a HHD system.

By the way, I used MSCONFIG to get into Safe Mode so I am not seeking how to get into Safe Mode - I just have a general question about SSDs:

Is this common with SSD systems or unrelated? If SSD systems, what is reason - do they just boot so fast, the F8 is never/seldom registered in time to change the boot?
 

corkyg

Elite Member | Peripherals
Super Moderator
Mar 4, 2000
27,370
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The entry key strokes for Safe Mode depends on your mobo's BIOS, not the OS or the SSD. The problem can be that the SSD speed does not give you enough time to exercise the command. Should come before the OS starts loading. Once that process starts, it is too late for the BIOS safe mode command. Then you have to do it from within Windows.
 
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Mark R

Diamond Member
Oct 9, 1999
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Is this common with SSD systems or unrelated? If SSD systems, what is reason - do they just boot so fast, the F8 is never/seldom registered in time to change the boot?

Can't say it's really been much of an issue for me with XP/Vista and I've used SSD for ages.

I have noticed that W7 and W8 give you a lot less time than XP/Vista to press F8 before entering safe mode. With W8, even if I really mash F8, I've never managed to get in (and, yes, I have checked F8 is the correct key for W8 final).
 

Coup27

Platinum Member
Jul 17, 2010
2,140
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Never had a problem. I repeatedly press F8 from the moment I see the POST screen until the menu appears.