How to Replace a Hard Drive
Save your laptop—and your data
Make a backup and other preparation
First, shut down the laptop. Buy a new (and larger) hard drive to fit your computer. If you don’t already have an external backup drive, get one now. And, you’ll need “imaging” software to copy your entire laptop drive onto the external drive and then transfer it to the new laptop drive. Finally, you’ll need an antistatic wristband to prevent static damage to the new drive and existing components. Find all the parts at a computer or electronics store.
No magnets! No conventional vacuum cleaners!
Even though it might make dealing with all the tiny screws easier, don’t use magnetized screwdrivers-or magnets of any kind-inside your computer or nearby outside. A jeweler’s screwdriver set comes in handy for this project.
And, if you see dust in there, resist the urge to suck it out with a conventional vacuum cleaner-you’ll need a special antistatic vacuum. Or you can blow it out with a can of either compressed air or refrigerant-based propellant cleaner.
Replace the hard drive
Photo 1: Make a boot disk and a backup
Plug in the external drive and boot the computer with the imaging software disk. Then create an exact duplicate of your hard drive on the external drive. Use the imaging software to burn an emergency boot disk.
We’re working on a Dell C840 laptop; it’s typical of most PC-style laptops with a “slide-out” drive tray. However, to find the exact procedure for your laptop, just search online for your model number and add “service manual” to the search field.
Start the repair by backing up the failing drive to the external drive (Photo 1). Disconnect the power cord and remove the laptop battery (or batteries). Then remove the failing drive (Photo 2). Using an optional antistatic mat provides an extra measure of protection. With the drive tray out, swap out the drives (Photo 3) and reinsert the drive tray. Then boot the computer with the emergency disk and restore the data from the external drive to your new laptop drive.
Required Tools for this Project
Have the necessary tools for this DIY project lined up before you start—you’ll save time and frustration.
- Antistatic mat
- Antistatic vacuum cleaner
- Antistatic wristband
- Phillips-head screwdriver
Required Materials for this Project
Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here’s a list.
- Can of compressed air
- Can of refrigerant-based propellant cleaner
- Hard drive
