Xubuntu on SSD, Xubuntu + Windows 10 on HD, booting?

Thanks for the quick reply.

System is UEFI

I don't know if I can boot from the DVD bay, assumed I would be able to so need to research.

I have a separate /home and would like to keep all of it.

I backup Xubuntu and Windows to a HD on a Raspeberry pi and then copy that backup to a second HD on the same Raspeberry pi.

I would have a separate /home and a separate data store on the HD which I only use if I really have to.

I have a live usb of xubuntu and set the laptop to boot from usb. It comes up with the usual choices and after choosing to check what I see first before actually installing, I am getting an error. It is quite long but relates to something timing out. I then get a welcome to Linux and am left in command mode at xubuntu@xubuntu~: or something similar

If I shut down and reboot, the usb is by-passed and the HD xubuntu starts up.

I will try to not the error message.

I am attempting to avoid opening up the laptop which is still in warranty although only just.