OOPS - I meant the CD/DVD drive. Thanks very much for your help.

I will look at the websites posted.

CB

Replacing the drive is the easy part. The hard part is moving all your files to your new hard drive.

I am guessing your laptop's hard drive is SATA.

If you want to do it yourself, you'll need software like Norton Ghost or Acronis True Image and a USB hard drive enclosure.

The easiset way is to pay someone to do this for you. A local PC shop or Best Buy Geek Squad should be able to do it.

 

http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/ins700m/

http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/ins700m/en/SM/index.htm

http://support.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/ins700m/en/SM/hdd.htm#wp1102176

CAUTION: Before you begin any of the procedures in this section, follow the safety instructions in the Product Information Guide.

NOTICE: Disconnect the computer and any attached devices from electrical outlets.

NOTICE: To avoid ESD, ground yourself by using a wrist grounding strap or by touching an unpainted metal surface on the computer.

NOTICE: Read "Before Working Inside Your Computer" before performing the following procedure.

2. Remove the battery.
   
   
3. Loosen the three captive screws that secure the hard drive to the bottom case.
   
   

1	captive screws (3)
2	hard drive cover

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.

1. Loosen the two captive screws on the hard drive securing bracket and remove the bracket.
2. Pull the hard drive out of the computer using the pull tab.