CAUTION: If you remove the hard drive from the computer when the drive is hot, do not touch the metal housing of the hard drive.
CAUTION: Before working inside your computer, follow the safety instructions located in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent data loss, turn off your computer (see Turning Off Your Computer) before removing the hard drive. Do not remove the hard drive while the computer is on, in standby mode, or in hibernate mode.
NOTICE: Hard drives are extremely fragile; even a slight bump can damage the drive.
NOTE: Dell does not guarantee compatibility or provide support for hard drives from sources other than Dell.
Loosen the two captive screws securing the hard drive cover and then
remove the cover.
1
hard drive cover
2
captive screws (2)
Remove the hard drive assembly using the pull-tab.
1
hard drive assembly
2
pull-tab
Remove the two screws securing the hard drive to the hard drive assembly.
1
screws (2)
2
hard drive assembly
3
hard drive
Slide out the hard drive from the hard drive assembly.
NOTICE: When the hard drive is not in the computer, store it in protective antistatic packaging (see "Protecting Against Electrostatic Discharge" in the Product Information Guide).
Replacing the Hard Drive
Remove the new drive from its packaging.
Save the original packaging for storing or shipping the hard drive.
NOTICE: Use firm and even pressure to slide the drive into place. If you use excessive force, you may damage the connector.
Slide the hard drive in the hard drive assembly.
Tighten the two screws to secure the hard drive to the hard drive assembly.
Place the hard drive assembly in the hard drive bay by aligning the tabs on
the hard drive assembly with the slots in the bay and pressing the
connector end down.
Replace the hard drive door and tighten the screws.
Install the operating system for your computer, as needed (see "Restoring
Your Operating System" in your Owner's Manual).
Install the drivers and utilities for your computer, as needed (see
"Reinstalling Drivers and Utilities" in your Owner's Manual).