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How to Remove the Hard Drive from your Desktop Computer or Laptop for Shipping / Postage

by Paul Freeman-Powell

WARNING!
The guide below is provided for information purposes only and comes with ABSOLUTELY NO WARRANTY.
No responsibility can be taken for data loss or malfunction as a result of use or misuse of this guide.
If you do not feel confident in removing your hard disc, you are advised to send your entire computer or laptop to us.

Actual setup may vary depending on model and manufacturer. For full details, please refer to your user's manual.

Please take note of the following precautions before starting:

• Turn off your computer, remove battery (if applicable) and allow to cool
• Ensure you are earthed and tie back any loose hair or clothing
• Do not remove the hard drive whilst your computer is on, in standby mode, or in hibernate mode
• Be extremely careful at all times. Hard drives are very fragile and even a small bump could cause damage
• Do not use excessive force as this may damage connectors or the hard drive
• Immediately after removal, store the hard drive in protective antistatic packaging (click here to order online)
• Ensure that the hard drive is sufficiently packaged with protective cushioning

First, do you have a desktop computer or a laptop?

Please click on the computer below that most closely resembles your own.

Remove Hard Drive from a Desktop Computer

Before starting, lift your computer up onto a table and ensure you are working in a spacious and well-lit environment.

Step 1. - Open up your computer   Turn off your computer and remove all cables. Before removing the power cable, touch the side of the metal case to discharge any static which may have built up on your body.   Identify and remove the screws holding the outer housing of the case. Depending on the model of your computer, both sides or just one side may need to be removed.
Step 2. - Unplug your Hard Drive   Identify the hard disc, which will have two connections - data and power. Appearance will vary depending on whether it is an IDE drive or a SATA drive. Shown here is an IDE drive.   Carefully slide out both connections taking care not to damage the cables. On IDE drives, the power connector will be in quite firmly - carefully use pliers to edge it out if necessary.
Step 3. - Remove Your Hard Drive   Identify and remove the screws holding the hard drive in place inside the case. The drive should be held on a platform so it should not fall away when these screws are removed. In most cases, there will be screws on both sides so the far side of the case will need to be removed to facilitate removal of the hard drive.   Carefully slide the hard drive backwards out of the hard drive bay. Be sure that the other cables are not in the way and it does not get tangled.   Only handle the hard drive by the sides - DO NOT touch the bottom of the hard drive with your bare fingers!
Step 4. - Package and Protect Your Hard Drive   Place the hard drive in protective antistatic packaging. Then, wrap the hard drive in thick bubble wrap to protect it during transit.   It is your responsibility to package the hard drive sufficiently to prevent damage during transit. No responsibility can be taken for damage or data loss which occurs as a result of insufficient packaging.

Remove Hard Drive from a Laptop Computer

Laptop hard drives are smaller (2.5") than the hard drives used in desktop computers (3.5"). Carefully follow the instructions below to remove the hard drive from your laptop.

Step 1. - Open Your Laptop's Hard Drive Slot   Unplug power cord, place laptop face-down and remove the battery. Identify your laptop's hard disc bay and remove the screw(s).   For details specific to your system, please consult your user's manual.
Step 2. - Disconnect and Remove Laptop Hard Drive   Gently slide hard drive out, being careful not to touch the green circuit boards on the underside.   Only handle the hard drive by the sides - DO NOT touch the bottom of the hard drive with your bare fingers!
Step 3. - Remove Laptop Hard Drive from Caddy   On some laptop models the hard drive may be enclosed in a caddy or other surround. Carefully remove the screws and take the hard drive out of the caddy.
Step 4. - Package and Protect Your Hard Drive Place the hard drive in protective antistatic packaging. Then, wrap the hard drive in thick bubble wrap to protect it during transit. It is your responsibility to package the hard drive sufficiently to prevent damage during transit. No responsibility can be taken for damage or data loss which occurs as a result of insufficient packaging.

Paul Freeman-Powell is a technology, software and hardware enthusiast. He founded and owns caeus.com Ltd. and works as a web developer, IT consultant and computer repair technician. In his spare time, he speaks French and Spanish fluently and is also a keen drummer and photographer (but not at the same time). His personal web site can be found at www.paulfp.net.

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