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Why Is My Samsung 980 Pro SSD Not Detected? Proven Solutions for a Frustration-Free Fix
Samsung’s 980 Pro SSD is renowned for its high-speed performance, but detection issues can halt productivity and cause significant frustration. Below are clear, actionable steps to resolve detection problems and restore your SSD’s functionality.
Common Reasons for Samsung 980 Pro SSD Not Detected
- Unsupported drive format
- Outdated or incompatible device drivers
- Incorrect BIOS or disk partition settings
Step-by-Step Solutions
Solution 1: Format the SSD to NTFS
If Windows fails to recognize the Samsung 980 Pro, the drive’s format may be unsupported. Formatting it to NTFS often resolves the issue.
- Press Win + X and select “Disk Management.”
- Locate the Samsung 980 Pro SSD (identify it by size if not labeled).
- Right-click the drive and select “Format.”
- Set the File System to “NTFS” and assign a Volume Label.
- Click “OK” to begin formatting.
- Once complete, check File Explorer to confirm the drive appears and is usable.
Solution 2: Enable NVMe Mode in BIOS
Some systems require manual activation of NVMe support in BIOS settings.
- Restart your computer and enter BIOS (commonly by pressing F2, F12, Delete, or End during boot).
- Navigate to the “NVMe” section, which may be under “Advanced” or “Storage.”
- Enable NVMe features and, if available, set PCIe to x4 mode for optimal connectivity.
- Save changes and exit BIOS.
- Allow the system to restart and check if the SSD is now detected.
Solution 3: Update SSD Drivers
Outdated or missing drivers can prevent detection.
- Open the Run dialog with Win + R, type devmgmt.msc, and press Enter.
- Expand “Disk Drives.”
- Right-click the Samsung SSD and select “Update driver.”
- Choose “Search automatically for drivers.”
- Restart your computer if prompted.
Tip: Check Windows Update for optional driver updates specific to Samsung SSDs and install them as needed.
By following these targeted steps, most Samsung 980 Pro SSD detection issues can be resolved quickly, allowing you to enjoy the full speed and reliability of your hardware. This approach minimizes downtime and maximizes your system’s performance, ensuring a frustration-free experience.