There are several reasons a hard drive might need to be removed from a computer. This article is written to help if you want to discard your old computer without the risk of losing your data to identity thieves. Removing a hard drive is very easy, and anyone who is not afraid to open up her computer can do it. Here are a few steps to help you safely remove a hard drive from your PC.

Difficulty: Easy

1. Back up. If you are going to need any of the data on a new computer be sure to back it up or have a local computer technician back it up for you.

2. Open the case. Be sure that you unplug the computer before opening the case. At this stage we are assuming you are not going to be using this computer any more before discarding it so issues with static are not a worry.

3. Locate the hard drive. Typically, the hard drive will be connected to a flat 2 1/2-inch-wide IDE cable and a power cable. In newer computers the IDE cable has been replaced with a red or blue SATA cable. Hard drives are often housed in removable metal cages that are secured to the computer case with one or more screws. Refer to your user’s manual to locate the hard drive if necessary.

4. Disconnect the hard drive. Unplug the hard drive from the IDE or SATA and power cables. Grab the plastic IDE cable connector with your thumb and forefinger, and gently pull until the connector breaks free. The power cable can be difficult to remove if the connector is fitted tightly. Make sure you don’t bend any of the pins when disconnecting the cables.

5. Remove the hard drive. If the hard drive is fitted in a metal cage, locate and remove the screws that are holding the cage in place. Hold your hand under the cage to catch it if necessary. Once the cage is free, remove the small screws on either side of the hard drive to remove it from the cage. If the hard drive is connected directly to the computer case, simply remove the screws on each side of the hard drive and slide it out of the case.

We hope this has been helpful and easy to follow on your own. However, if you would like assistance we would be happy to help. Contact Protech today if you would like to schedule service.