Optimize SSD in non-AHCI Windows 7 computer?

[ChrisGNV]

I installed a Pyro 120GB SSD in an HP Pavilion s5304y. The BIOS lacks an AHCI option. Windows is configured optimally as though it did have AHCI but, if I understand correctly, TRIM commands won't make it to the SSD.

I'm not going to replace the motherboard, a BIOS update is not available, and the expansion slots are filled. It is what it is. What steps can I take to optimize the life and performance of the drive, without going to great lengths?

Thanks in advance.

[canthearu]

As far as I know, TRIM should work in IDE mode in windows 7. I haven't tested it though.

I really wouldn't worry about it though. If you do see serious write performance degradation, then TRIM probably wasn't working. In that case, you can secure erase the drive and then only partition 100gig before reinstalling windows. This will give the drive extra space to work in, preventing serious performance degradation even without TRIM.