How to Install a New Hard Drive in Your Desktop Computer

This article is for those who are looking to install a new hard drive into their current desktop computer.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A screwdriver (either Phillips or straight depending on the screws in the pc cover)
• Your new hard drive
• Your Windows operating systems disc
• A bit of patience.

1. 
    
   The cover screws.

   1> Using the screwdriver, remove the screws from the cover of your computer tower. MAKE SURE TO DISCONNECT THE POWER CABLE FIRST!!!

2. 2> Depending on the style of your tower you will either slid the complete cover back, or remove the right side when facing from the back.

3. 
    
   Where to find them.

   3> Locate the existing hard drive in your computer and remove the set screws using the appropriate screwdriver.

4. 4> CAREFULLY remove the ribbon cable from the existing hard drive and slide the hard drive back and then out.

5. 
    
   Location.

   5> Look at the back of your new hard drive and make sure that the jumper located next to the cable slot is set properly (use the usual diagram on the hard drive to determine).

6. 6> Connect your new hard drive appropriately and reinstall the set screws. Then close and screw down the cover.

7. 7> Reconnect the power cable, turn on the pc and IMMEDIATELY insert the operating systems disc. Then follow on screen instructions to complete the install.

Tips & Warnings

• If You have followed all the directions properly then you are well on your way to accessing your new hard drive!
• Remember: DISCONNECT THE POWER!!!
• DO NOT TOUCH THE UNDERSIDE OF THE HARD DRIVE!!!
• DO NOT DROP THE HARD DRIVE
• DO NOT DAMAGE THE RIBBON CABLE
• FOLLOW ALL DIRECTIONS

[63miranda]

on 3/14/2009 Nice, precise steps. 5*

[SchoolOfLife]

on 3/14/2009 This was an enjoyable article. Look forward to reading more from you. :)

[syriusas]

on 3/14/2009 Thanks for this information~ I may be trying this on an old computer in the near future. 5* and a recommend!