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 you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.
NOTICE: To prevent data loss, turn off your computer before removing the hard drive. Do not remove the hard drive while the computer is turned 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.
NOTE: You need the Operating System CD to install the Microsoft® Windows® operating system. You also need the Drivers and Utilities CD for your computer to install the drivers and utilities on the new hard drive.
NOTE: This computer is not equipped with an optical drive—use the Media Base (sold separately) to install software.
NOTE: Before you remove the hard drive, ensure that you removed the main battery.
Turn the computer upside down, and loosen the two captive screws on the metal bracket that
holds the hard drive.
Holding the bracket by the sides, slide it toward the back of the computer to dislodge the
bracket from underneath the two metal clips.
Remove the metal bracket from the hard drive and lay the bracket aside.
1
captive screws (2)
2
metal bracket
3
hard drive
4
metal clips (2)
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.
Use the pull-tab to disconnect the hard drive cable from the system board connector and
remove the hard drive from the computer.
1
pull-tab
2
hard drive cable
3
hard drive
4
system board connector
Dismantling the Hard Drive
NOTICE: The replacement hard drive ships with the protective cover and the hard drive cable. Only a certified service technician should dismantle the hard drive. Damage due to servicing that is not authorized by Dell is not covered by your warranty.
Use your fingers to carefully remove the protective cover from the hard drive.
1
protective cover
2
hard drive
Use a hard drive tool to carefully pry up the ZIF connector that holds the hard drive cable,
and remove the cable.
1
ZIF connector
2
hard drive cable
Replacing 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.
