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How do I remove a computer hard drive? Removing the  hard drive  from the computer is a relatively straight forward process. However, before you start working inside of the computer, you need to be aware of  ESD  as it could damage hardware components. To reduce, or eliminate, this electrical charge risk, you should wear an anti-static  wrist strap . In the following sections, you'll see the steps required for removing most computer hard drives. Open your machine........ First, you need to remove the side panel from the computer case. The side panel is usually held in place by several screws, or it may be held in place with a bracket or clamp of some kind. Remove the fasteners securing the side panel, and carefully pull it off. Once the panel has been removed, you should be able to see the inside of the computer. The next step is to locate the hard drive inside the case. In most computer cases, it's located towards the front at the bottom of the case, as indicated in t

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Speed of hard drive....... In addition to the interface, it is also important to look at the transfer rates of the hard drive. Long transfer rates can reduce the overall speed of your computer. There are two types of hard drives:  Solid-State Drive  (SSD) and the traditional  Hard Disk Drive (HDD). SSD  - An SSD is much faster than a traditional hard drive. If your computer is capable of accommodating an SSD, and cost and total space is not as much as a consideration, we highly recommend an SSD. HDD  - With traditional hard drives the speed is measured in  RPM (Revolutions Per Minute). An example of this would be a speed of 7,200 RPM. The higher the RPM, the faster the hard drive, in general. In other words, 7,200 RPM is faster than 5,400 RPM. Hybrid  -  Hybrid hard disk drives  are drives that combine the above two technologies into one drive. Advantages of SSD over HDD Other considerations Below is a listing of some other important considerations to look at when p

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Interface.......... When looking to purchase a hard drive, the first and foremost important consideration is the interface the hard drive uses to connect and communicate with the computer. Below is a listing of each of the available interfaces with information how they may or may not apply to your computer. SATA  - The more commonly found hard drive and used with all new computers. Most computers today can accommodate at least two SATA devices, and sometimes up to four or six SATA devices. Hard drives and other devices, like CD and DVD drives, can utilize a SATA connection. Make sure your computer has a SATA connection before purchasing this type of hard drive. IDE/ATAPI/ATA  - Another common hard drive interface used with older IBM compatible computers. IDE supports a maximum of four IDE devices, which can include hard drives and CD-ROM drives. Make sure your computer has an IDE/ATAPI/ATA connection before purchasing this type of drive. SCSI  - A less common interface, SCSI

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Adding a new drive If you are adding a new hard drive because you need more  disk space , and you have a  desktop computer , a new hard drive can be added without replacing the old drive. The benefit of adding a new hard drive is that you gain additional storage without having to erase any of your existing files or reinstall any of your programs. Replacing existing drive If you have a  laptop computer  or want to replace an older hard drive ( HDD ) with a new solid state drive ( SSD ), keep in mind that anything on the drive will be lost. While it is possible to transfer all of the data from one drive to another drive, we recommend doing a fresh install to prevent any future problems and to clean all of the junk software. Before replacing a hard drive make sure you: Backup all important data Make sure you have the  operating system  disc or  recovery disc Make sure you have all the necessary discs to reinstall your software

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Computer hard drive buying tips. When purchasing a hard drive, it is important to understand and verify the hard drive is suitable for your uses and has or does not have the options you may or may not need. Unfortunately, with hard drive technologies frequently changing, it is can sometimes be confusing and frustrating when looking to purchase a hard drive. This document covers all considerations you should think about when thinking about upgrading or buying a new computer hard drive.

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Mac vs. PC The decision between buying a Macintosh and PC computer running Microsoft Windows is always a heated debate. See our  Mac vs. PC document  for a list of advantages and disadvantages of both of these systems if you're still not decided. What to look for,,,,,,, When purchasing a computer it is likely that you are going to have a general idea of what you may like in the computer or how you would like to configure the computer. Below is a listing of the various components likely to be found in a computer and recommendations and tips when considering any of the below components.

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Desktop buying tips Purchasing a home or business computer can be a big and sometimes costly decision. Below is a listing of helpful suggestions on what to look for and what to ask when purchasing a new computer. New vs. refurbished or used...... If you are looking to save money buying a used or refurbished computer can save you money. A refurbished computer is a computer that has been returned to the company has been checked out as good but cannot be sold again as new. All major computer manufacturers have a refurbished section showing all their available refurbished products. Buying one of these computers instead of a new computer can save you hundreds of dollars.