How to Replace Existing Hard Drive

Hard drivie information in the Windows Device Manager

As a computer becomes older, the system’s hard drive will begin to show its age through physical problems, such as a mechanical or electrical failure, or through its ever-decreasing capacity when compared to the newer drives on the market. When it becomes time to replace the hard drive in a computer, the job can easily be done at home with a new hard drive, a screwdriver, and a few simple preparations.

Things You'll Need

• The computer's owner's manual
• Hard drive
• Backup media
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Determine the specifications of the hard drive in the computer. Normally, this information can be found in the computer’s user manual, but most of the relevant information can also be found in the computer’s BIOS or in the hardware information applet included with most operating systems. The most important specification is the type of data interface that the drive uses. Older machines will use the Parallel ATA interface, which is also known as UltraATA or IDE. Newer machines tend to use the Serial ATA interface. On some high-end machines, such as servers, one may find that the hard drive is connected a third type of interface, called SCSI, which is far less common than the first two. The second important specification is the drive’s form factor. Desktops usually use a 3.5-inch drive, while laptops utilize 2.5-inch drives in various thicknesses.

2. Order a drive that uses the same interface as the computer and the same form factor. The drive should be as large as possible, within budget constraints. A drive that rotates faster, denoted by a higher RPM rating, will offer a noticeable performance increase over a slower drive.

3. Backup all important data before beginning the installation process. This can be done in two ways. The first is to use a disk-imaging program to make a mirror image of the entire drive, including the operating system. The second method is to copy only the personal data on the machine, which will require that an operating system be installed on the new drive before placing the personal files on it. In either case, store the backup on external media, such as optical discs or an external hard drive.

4. Disconnect the AC power from the computer. On laptops, remove the battery as well.

5. Remove the existing hard drive from the system. In a desktop, disconnect the power and data cables, unscrew the drive from the case, and remove any special mounting hardware from the drive. In a notebook, open the access door covering the hard drive and remove the unit, or, if it is in a special enclosure, remove the entire enclosure. Remove any mounting hardware from the drive.

6. Transfer the mounting hardware to the new drive, if necessary. In the desktop, secure the new hard drive with screws, and connect the power and data cables. In the laptop, slide the hard drive and mounting hardware back into position, and secure the drive enclosure or access door.

7. Restore the disk image, if imaging software was used, or install a fresh copy of the operating system and copy the personal files to the new drive.

Tips & Warnings

• If the computer does not recognize the full capacity of the drive initially, the drive manufacturer will often include software that will remedy this problem. If no such software was included with the new hard drive, it can typically found on the manufacturer’s web site.

• If a fresh copy of the operating system is to be installed, ensure that all of the hardware drivers are available on external media before disassembling the computer.