How to Upgrade an Alienware Area 51 Laptop Hard Drive

The Alienware Area 51 is a laptop specially designed to meet the needs of avid gamers and multimedia enthusiasts. Among its other features, the Alienware Area 51 comes equipped with a 160 GB Serial ATA, 7200 RPM internal hard drive. In the event that you run out of storage space on your Alienware Area 51 laptop, you may find it necessary to upgrade the hard drive. The procedure for doing so is very simple; however, it may take considerable time to reinstall your system software, applications and other data after installation.

Things You'll Need

• Replacement hard drive
• Philips-head screwdriver
• System installation CDs
• Application installation CDs
• Blank CDs or external storage device

Instructions

1. Back up any important data to blank CDs or an external storage device, such as a USB memory stick. Exit any active applications and turn off your laptop; unplug the power cord. Disconnect any attached cables or peripheral devices. Turn the laptop over and locate the battery; slide the battery-release latch into the unlocked position and remove the battery from the laptop.

2. Realign the laptop so the front edge is nearest you. Locate the hard-drive cover near the front-right corner of the laptop. Remove the two screws securing the hard-drive cover in place. Remove the hard-drive cover and set it aside.

3. Locate and remove the screw securing the hard-drive module to the laptop base. Grip the wire handle on the hard-drive module and slide the module to the right; this will disconnect the hard drive from the laptop. Lift the module out of the hard-drive bay.

4. Remove the screws securing the hard-drive cover to the hard drive. Remove the old hard drive and put the replacement in its place. Affix the hard-drive cover to the new hard drive and insert the entire hard-drive module into the hard-drive bay. Grip the wire handle and slide the hard-drive module to the left, so the hard drive is fully seated in the connector.

5. Replace and tighten the screw previously used to secure the module to the laptop base. Replace the hard-drive cover and screw it into place. Reinsert the battery into the laptop. Return the laptop to an upright position and reconnect all previously disconnected cords and cables. Open your laptop and turn it on.

6. Insert the installation CD for your system software and follow the onscreen instructions. Reinstall any desired applications. Transfer over your previously saved data. Your hard-drive upgrade is now complete.

Tips & Warnings

• During installation, periodically touch any nearby metal surface to minimize the risk of a static discharge.

• Take care not to hit or drop your hard drive during installation, as the internal components are very delicate. Avoid touching the connectors on your hard drive.