Before starting the removal and replacement your old data needs to be backed up and ready to transfer to the new drive; use whatever program you are comfortable with using for the data back-up. If possible use an external hard drive to store the data until needed after the new hard drive is installed. Hard drives have become far easier to install and change allowing the home user to perform most simple hardware replacements and upgrades.

Turn off the laptop and disconnect the battery to prevent electric shock as you should with all electronic repair work. Turn the computer over with the front of the machine toward you and locate the plate covering the hard drive; this should be in the lower right hand corner of the laptop. Remove the two screws form the cover and remove the cover which will allow the hard drive to slide out of the side of the machine. At this point the drive bracket and the adapter need to be removed. Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws and then, very carefully, slide the adapter off of the drive.

Once the adapter and screws have been removed they will be put into use on the new drive; follow these last steps in reverse for the new drive. Slide the new hard drive into the slot and reattach the screws. At this point the operating system will need to be reinstalled if a data transfer program was not used. The system CD will determine the type of hard drive you have installed and make the necessary changes to the system upon install. After the operating system is installed start the long process of transferring and uploading all of your data and files. Be sure to consult your laptop’s documentation for any questions.