How to Swap Out a Hard Drive

A computer hard drive is a small silver box that holds all the information (data) including Windows and operating commands. A hard drive also contains all the software installed on the computer. There are many reasons why you would want to replace or "swap out" a computer hard drive. It could be speed, capacity, performance or repair. Whatever the reason, here are some helpful tips to get you on your way to swap out a hard drive.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Windows
• Computer
• Hard drive
• Screwdriver
• Lighting
• Anti-static wrist strap

1. 
   Example of an internal hard drive in a computer

   Back up all of your data (photos, favorites, emails, documents, settings) onto a CD or removable storage device (hard drive) or a flash drive. Your items will need to be stored to be transferred to the new hard drive. There are a variety of software packages and websites on the Internet that can help with data storage and backup.

2. Touch the side of the machine. Put on your anti-static wrist strap. Make sure your work area is clean, free of clutter and well-lit.

3. Power down the computer and unplug all the cables. Find out how to open the machine. Some covers open with screws while others simply have a pressure release on the top and bottom with a hinge.

4. Take a digital picture of the open machine so you remember how to connect the cables and where to install the hard drive.

5. Locate the hard drive once you have opened the case. If you are unsure what it looks like, it may be a good idea to look on the Internet or in a book before you begin. It is usually above or to the side of the other drives like the CD or DVD ROMs.

6. Begin to remove the screws or find the pressure release to remove the old hard drive. Disconnect the two cables (power and the one to the motherboard) in the back of the hard drive.

7. Remove your new hard drive. If it does not have an Operating System on it, you will have to install it later on. Carefully insert into the empty bay, securing it with the screws or with a click.

8. Connect the small power cable and the cable that goes to the motherboard exactly the way the old one was. Make sure they are securely fastened.

9. Reconnect the cables and then power on the machine. You should hear the hard drive spinning, although it should not be very noisy.

10. Close up the case if all is operating normally. Begin to install your hard drive with a software installation CD if necessary and your operating system.

11. If you need additional help, call a knowledgeable friend or computer professional, do not risk damaging the machine. Additional resource(s) are found at the bottom of this article in the links. These will go over some more procedures and recommendations discussed in this article.

Tips & Warnings

• Take your time if this is your first time and do each step slowly.
• Do not open the case on a computer that is under warranty. Call the manufacturer instead.
• This is for more advanced computer users.

Resources

• Help with hard drive reformat on older computers
• Reinstall operating system on a Dell

[MidniteWriter]

on 1/9/2009 Really will speed up your computer, almost like a new machine...
Provided nothing else is wrong!


What are your thoughts, suggestions, etc? No links, please.

[Walkaboutangel]

on 3/10/2008 Gee, you mean I dont have to go buy a new computer?????? lol

Angel