This guide will provide the information necessary to replace, upgrade or add a new hard drive to your computer. To prepare for replacing your hard drive there are few necessary precautions to observe.
If you are removing a hard drive, ensure all critical information is backed up. Disconnect all cables from your computer, especially the power cable. Press and hold the power button for five seconds to discharge any power stored in your computer.
Familiarize yourself with how to prevent electro-static discharge (ESD), either in your product manual, or with the support video 'Learn how to Avoid ESD Damage' Following these steps will help to ensure the safety of your data, your computer and you. The information presented in this guide is applicable to most desktop models.
In some models, the steps required may be slightly different. If you are unsure with how to proceed with your system, visit dell.com/manuals for information on location and safely accessing the hard drive. Replacing a hard drive is a relatively simple procedure. The first step is ensuring all power connections and external cables are disconnected.
Next we will remove the side panel to allow us to see inside of the computer. Most Dell systems can be opened without tools. This Optiplex desktop can be opened by sliding this latch to the left. Locate the hard drive and remove the data and power cables. Grasp and pull on the plug and not the cable to avoid damage.
Press the hard drive bracket latch towards the hard drive and lift it upwards. Flex the hard drive bracket, then remove the hard drive from the bracket. You have now successfully removed the hard drive from the computer. Your new hard drive must be installed in to the hard drive carrier.
You may need to flex the bracket gently when inserting the hard drive. Slide the hard drive in to the system, and press the hard drive bracket latch towards the hard drive and insert it into the chassis.
Reconnect the power and data cables in to the back of the hard drive ensuring the cables are seated properly to the hard drive connector. Once reassembled, slip the slide cover back in to place until you see and hear it click in to place.
Congratulations! You have installed the hard drive. To ensure your new hard drive is detected and working in the system you will need to power on the computer. For many newer systems, a replacement hard drive comes preinstalled with your operating system.
If your hard drive is blank, please check the description of this video for many helpful links on reinstalling your operating system and many other helpful links. For more information regarding replacing Dell Desktop hardware please refer to dell.com/support.
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