A computer needs hard drives to store documents, programs, photographs, and other information on them. If your hard drive is out of order, there is no need to replace your entire computer. You just need to remove the broken hard drive and replace it with a new one.
Steps
Step 1. Create a backup copy of your data so as not to lose them (it's better to be insured after all)
Copy the information you need to an external medium, such as a USB flash drive, external hard drive, or online storage. If your hard drive is broken and you cannot recover your data, skip this step
Step 2. Turn off your computer and unplug the power cord
You need to open the computer case, so you need to protect yourself from the possibility of electric shock.
Step 3. Open the computer case
To remove the side case cover, you will most likely need to unscrew a few screws on the back of the case or open the plastic latches. If you do not understand how to open the case, get your computer manual and find the information you need.
If you don't have instructions, take a close look at the case to see how to open it. Most housings open by loosening the bolts on their back panels
Step 4. Locate the hard drive inside the enclosure
The hard drive can be placed in a fixed or portable container. Alternatively, the hard drive is installed in a special compartment. The hard drive itself looks like a rectangular metal box about the size of a pocket book.
In most enclosures, the hard drive is located near the front (front) surface of the enclosure (next to other drives, such as an optical drive). If you are not sure if you have found a hard drive, do not remove anything from the case
Step 5. See how the hard drive is secured to the chassis
- You may need a screwdriver to open the disc container.
- In newer enclosures, the hard drive can be removed without additional tools, since the hard drive is released here by opening the plastic latch.
Step 6. Gently remove the disc
If it is installed in the hard drive bay near the front bezel, use both hands to remove the hard drive by pulling it toward you.
- Pull gently - if the hard drive won't budge, stop! Do not use force - if you are unable to remove the hard drive, then you are doing it wrong.
- There are two (or more) cables connected to the hard drive. If they prevent you from removing the hard drive, disconnect them.
Step 7. Disconnect the IDE cable
It is a thin, wide gray (in most cases) cable that connects the drive to the motherboard.
The cable may be fixed in the hard drive with glue. In this case, remove as much glue as possible and pull the cable plug back; use a little force to break the dried glue
Step 8. Disconnect the power cord
This is a rectangular plug with one or two latches.
This plug is much smaller than the IDE cable. Open the latches and pull the plug towards you. Be careful not to bend the thin metal contacts inside the plug
Step 9. Remove the hard drive from the chassis and place it in an anti-static bag
Hard drives can be damaged by moisture, dust, or electric shock. Anti-static bags are a cheap way to protect your hard drive.
Anti-static bags are available at electronics stores. If you are throwing away your old hard drive, you can skip this step
Advice
If you are worried that you will do something wrong, find the instructions that came with your computer and follow them
Warnings
- Do not pull out the cables connected to the hard drive. You can damage them, or worse, you can damage the connectors where they are inserted.
- Get rid of electrostatic charges. To do this, touch the metal parts of the computer case (before opening it). Do not wear anything metallic when removing the hard drive. Electrical discharges, even very small ones, can damage components in your computer.