Installing Sims 3 can be done via original discs. There's a few things that need to be done along the way.
There's no need to load the game and start a save after each disc install.
When I reinstalled Sims 3 via disc (using an external dvd drive) I installed base game first, then I downloaded and installed the
Sims 3 Patch Downloader from MTS.
After that, I installed the rest of the expansions in order of release.
Check
this article from EA Help that lists packs in order of release or see spoiler below. - If installing from disc, It's recommended installing expansions and stuff packs in the order they were released.
From oldest to newest:
The Sims 3
The Sims 3: World Adventures
The Sims 3: High-End Loft Stuff
The Sims 3: Ambitions
The Sims 3: Fast Lane Stuff
The Sims 3: Late Night
The Sims 3: Outdoor Living Stuff
The Sims 3: Generations (May 31, 2011)
The Sims 3: Town Life Stuff
The Sims 3: Pets
The Sims 3: Master Suite
The Sims 3: Showtime
The Sims 3: Katy Perry's Sweet Treats Stuff
The Sims 3: Diesel Stuff
The Sims 3: Supernatural
The Sims 3: Seasons
The Sims 3: 70's, 80's & 90's Stuff
The Sims 3: University Life
The Sims 3: Island Paradise
The Sims 3: Movie Stuff
The Sims 3: Into the Future
Use Nraas
NoCD Mod so you don't have to have to keep your external drive always attached.
Please Note: If you have Origin installed, login to turn off Game Updates for Sims 3. Or Origin will try to take over your disc installation.
Turn off game updates for Sims 3 in Origin -
Login to Origin > Application Settings > Automatic Game Updates (Under Client Update section) and switch off automatic game updates.
Optional: White List the Game in Antivirus Program.
There have been reports of problems with programs getting messed with by antivirus programs. To help prevent that from happening. You may want to white list Sims 3. With there being several different antivirus programs you may need to search on how to white list Sims 3 in your specific antivirus program.