How to Get the Hard Drive Out of a HP Slimline s3020n

Removing the hard drive from your HP Pavilion Slimline s3020n requires patience.

Like most computers, the HP Pavilion Slimline s3020n Desktop PC has a built-in hard drive that can be removed using little more than a Phillips screwdriver. Although the process is time-consuming and requires a great deal of patience, this allows you to replace or upgrade your computer's hard drive without sending it to a technician or computer expert. Keep in mind that if you feel uncomfortable taking apart your computer, you should seek professional help to avoid the risk of damaging your PC.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips screwdriver
• Anti-static wrist strap

Instructions

1. Shut down and power off your computer completely. Disconnect any cables, wires and plugs from the system unit.

2. Ground yourself by touching a metal surface before working on your computer's system unit. Wear an anti-static wrist strap if you have one to avoid damaging your computer.

3. Set the system unit on a hard, level surface, laying it on its side with the rear end facing you and the power cord input near the top-left corner of the case.

4. Remove the three screws from the system unit's side panel. In respect to your position, two are near the top with the third near the bottom-right corner.

5. Slide the side panel toward you and lift upward to remove it from the system unit.

6. Lift the latch on the pocket media drive, slide it back and lift it out of the system unit. In respect to your position, the pocket media drive is near the front-right side of the system unit. The latch is near the bottom of the pocket media drive, closest to you.

7. Disconnect the data and power cables from the hard drive, which are located in the area where you removed the pocket media drive.

8. Unscrew the single screw holding the hard drive tray in place. The screw is near the top-left side of the hard drive tray.

9. Move the hard drive power cable to the side and carefully pull the hard drive tray from the system unit.

10. Remove the four screws holding the hard drive in the hard drive tray and pull the hard drive from the tray.

Tips & Warnings

• Never work on or over a carpeted surface when servicing your computer's system unit.

• Your computer's system unit has sharp metal edges that could cut your hands, arms or fingers if you're not careful.

References

• HP: Replacing the Hard Drive
• HP: HP Pavilion Slimline s3020n Desktop PC Product Specifications
• HP: Opening the PC Case
• HP: Upgrading and Servicing Guide