How to Install a Notebook Hard Drive

Installing a notebook hard drive is usually fairly easy.

Sometimes it's necessary to install a new hard drive in a notebook computer. A bad hard drive may need to be replaced, or upgraded to a larger drive. Installing a notebook hard drive is usually fairly easy to do, depending on the configuration of the notebook or laptop. Learning to replace a hard drive can save you a lot of money. Here are a few steps to help you install a notebook hard drive on your own.

Things You'll Need

• Notebook owner's manual
• Notebook hard drive
• Operating system

Instructions

1. Back up your data. If you are replacing an existing hard drive, and it's still functional, back up any important data that is stored on the drive. Also, if you are selling or giving the original hard drive to someone else, you can erase the data on the disk by formatting it.

2. Turn off the notebook and unplug it. Locate the slot that houses the hard drive. Remove the screw that connects the slot cover, and then gently pull the hard drive out. The hard drive will be enclosed in a sled type housing unit, which is often connected to the slot cover.

3. Remove the old hard drive from the sled and then secure the new hard drive to the sled. Make sure all of the sled screws are secure. Slide the hard drive into the slot and then replace the slot cover. Plug the laptop back into the electrical outlet.

4. Restart your notebook and follow the instructions in your owner's manual. Enter your system's BIOS. If the hard drive is installed properly, it will be recognized by the BIOS.

5. Load your operating system CD into the CD ROM, reboot the computer, and then follow the instructions on the screen. This will allow you to format and install your operating system. Once the operating system is installed, transfer your personal data to the new hard drive.

Tips & Warnings

• Always store functional laptop hard drives in anti-static bags when not in use.

• If possible, enclose the laptop in a layer of bubble wrap when in storage.

• Some notebooks require a bit of disassembly to get to the hard drive. Refer to your owner's manual to determine how to remove the hard drive.

• Hard drives are very sensitive to cold, heat, and jarring. Be careful not to hit, bump or drop the notebook hard drive when handling.