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Overview
Internal hard disks connect to your computer's motherboard using an IDE interface or SATA interface. Most new hard drives come with either an IDE or SATA connection cable, depending on the type of drive.
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Many IDE internal hard disks contain jumper pins that you must set to designate a hard disk as a primary (master) disk where you install Windows or as a secondary (subordinate) disk where you store programs and files. These jumpers are small plastic sleeves that you must place on the correct metal jumper pins. For additional instructions, check the information that came with the internal hard disk. |
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Make sure that any time you are doing any internal work on a computer of any kind that you have a proper working area. That can include electrostatic discharge mats or wristbands, proper lighting and if necessary, ventilation. You never want to perform internal repairs while the power source is still connected as this can not only potentially cause hardware failure from discharge, but also can be a bodily hazard by electric shock! After you disconnect the power source, hit the power button several times to discharge any lingering electricity in the system before you begin. |
To remove and replace an internal hard disk
1. Turn off your computer, disconnect the power, and remove your computer's cover. If you have a laptop, remove the battery from the computer as well as check the information from the manufacturer to find out if there is a panel you can remove to access the hard disk.
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If you have a laptop there will only be one SATA connection that satisfies both needs already installed and available, the only thing you'll have to do is plug it in and seat the drive in the tray. The previous drive may have a rubber spacer or bracket it was installed in, you will need to take that off and install it on the new drive. |
To add a new internal hard disk (without removing an existing disk)
1. Turn off your computer, disconnect the power, and remove your computer's cover. If you have a laptop, remove the battery from the computer as well as check the information from the manufacturer to find out if there is a panel you can remove to access the hard disk.
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If you have a laptop the SATA connector should already be in place. If there is not you may have to consult with your manufacturer for proper installation procedures. Some newer models may just have an additional bay for an M.2 or M.3 SATA connection. These do not require any cables but do have 1, sometimes 2 screws that will fasten it to the motherboard after you have plugged it into the slot. Consult with the user's manual or the manufacturer to determine which drive will be applicable with your computer. |
Preparing to use a new hard disk
If you've installed your new hard disk correctly, your computer should recognize it. When you turn on your computer, the basic input/output system (BIOS) should automatically detect the new hard disk.
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If you plan to use the new hard disk as a secondary disk (one that does not contain Windows), you should be able to see the new hard disk drive the next time you start your computer and log on to Windows. After Windows starts, click the Windows Start button, click Computer, and then look for your new drive. The letter assigned to the drive will depend on your computer's configuration. If you don't see the new hard disk drive, try looking for it in Computer Management.
If you are using Windows 8 or 8.1, after Windows starts, click the Windows start button then click on the Search icon on the top right hand corner and search Everywhere for "This PC" and then look for your new drive.
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2. In the left pane, under Storage, click Disk Management, and then look for the new drive.
If you are using Windows 8, 8.1 and 10
1. Click on Windows Start icon on the bottom left hand side of Desktop, search for Control Panel, click on System and Security, click on Administrative Tools and then double-click on Computer Management. Administrator permission required If you're prompted for an administrator password or confirmation, type the password or provide confirmation.
2. In the left pane, under Storage, click Disk Management, and 10, right click the Windows logo at the bottom left, then click on Disk Management, then look for the new drive.
If your computer doesn't recognize the new hard disk, double-check the installation instructions that came with the hard disk. If you have additional questions, go to the manufacturer's website.
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You can divide a new hard disk into more than one partition. Each partition on the hard disk can be formatted and assigned a drive letter. For more information, check here. |