How to Install an Internal Hard Drive on a Notebook Computer
You don't have to be a computer geek to install an internal hard drive on a notebook computer. All it takes is a few tools and a few minutes of your time. Most notebooks today are manufactured in such a way that installing, changing or upgrading the hard drive is an easy task.
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Instructions
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1
Locate the hard drive bay on your notebook computer. Depending on the model, it may be clearly marked or you may have to look in your user's manual. If you don't have the manual, go to the manufacturer's website (suc as Dell, IBM or Hewlett Packard) and see if the manual is available for download.
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2
Remove the screw or screws holding the hard drive cover plate in place in the bay. The cover plate may be part of the hard drive caddy or it may simply be a removable cover.
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3
Remove the existing hard drive. This can be accomplished by gently pulling on the tab that was exposed when you removed the cover. Remove the hard drive from the caddy by unscrewing the 4 small screws that hold the drive in place.
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4
Insert the new hard drive in the caddy and secure with 4 screws.
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5
Slide the hard drive into the drive bay and gently push the drive until it locks in place. Replace the cover.
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6
Boot the notebook and confirm that it locates the new hard drive. Load your operating system and any software you need.
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Tips & Warnings
A set of jeweler's screwdrivers is perfect for working on notebooks or any computer parts. The sets are inexpensive and include both flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers. Refer to your owner's manual or the manufacturer's website to confirm the size hard drive that you need for your model of notebook. Most notebook manufacturers do not recommend repeated changes of the internal hard drive. The hard drive should only be changed when upgrading to a larger size drive.
