Clean Installation from USB with Optane module - 'something went wrong'

Hi - I want to re-install the factory OS on an SSD, to replace the HDD that came with my XPS 8930 desktop.

I used the support website to create a media recovery USB. Before booting from the USB, I disabled the Optane accelerator and disconnected the HDD, leaving (I thought) only the SSD connected.

The process ran to 75%, and then I got a 'something went wrong message', and this happened twice. I put everything back as it was, and to my surprise, the files that were on the SSD before I started the process were untouched. This made me suspect that the 'boot from USB' process had tried to install Windows on the decoupled Optane module instead of the SSD.

Is this possible? If so, how would I avoid if I attempt again?

Many thanks.....