Installing a new hard drive can be a pretty easy thing to do but many people shy away from this task because they are not comfortable being up close to the electronic boards inside a computer case. There are many things that can go wrong if you are not careful so it is recommended that you have a computer professional do this for you if there is any doubt. If this is not an option for you and you want to give it a try, there are a few basic rules you should follow to protect yourself and the computer you are working on. There is always a chance of shock so make sure you are very careful when attempting any work on computers.
It is recommended that you buy a grounding wrist bracelet when working on sensitive equipment like a computer. This bracelet is placed on your wrist and has a wire attached to it that is clipped onto any grounded surface.
Make sure the computer is unplugged before you start working on the inside.
You should never have any liquids like water or coffee around the work space because they will destroy your motherboard in a matter of seconds.
When unscrewing the old drive from the case, be very careful that the screwdriver does not come in contact with anything but the screws you are loosening.
Make sure when unplugging the data and power cable from the back of the hard drive, you do not pull so hard as to damage the cable or pins.
Set the screws aside and DO NOT loose them. Take the new hard drive out of the antistatic bag and be careful screwing it to the case. Gently place the cables that you took from the old hard drive and plug them into the new one. If the old hard drive is still good, place it into the anti-static bag that the new hard drive came in. This will prevent data loss.
Remember, be careful and have fun!
