How to Replace the Hard Drive in a Dell Inspiron Laptop

Hard drives can need to be replaced for many reasons. Sometimes it is because of a faulty drive, and other times it is just because the user is looking to upgrade their current computer system. Whichever the case, hard drives are very easy to replace in laptops. Typically it is just the removal of a single screw and out pops the hard drive. Putting the hard drive back in is just as simple.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Phillips screwdriver

1. Save your data. Before replacing the hard drive you will want to backup the data that is currently stored on it. CMS products has an external drive, called ABSplus, that you can connect to your drive and perform a full backup of your hard drive data.

2. Shut off the computer. Remove the power cord and peripheral cables.

3. Turn the computer over so that the front is facing you. Using the Phillips screwdriver, remove the single screw holding the hard drive in place. Pull the hard drive out of the hard drive bay with your fingers.

4. Install the new hard drive. Put the hard drive into the drive bay exactly how you took the old one out. The hard drive will only fit one way. Press firmly so the hard drive is fully seated into the computer. Using the Phillips screwdriver replace the screw.

5. Transfer data onto the new hard drive. If you used a backup device and did a full backup, then your operating system and all data files should be saved. Restore the data from the backup. If you saved particular files only or did not save any data, then put in your operating system CD and install Windows. After Windows is installed, you can transfer the select files you saved onto the new hard drive.

Resources

• Get information on ABSplus