Guide: Removing & Installing DVD Drive

Replacing the DVD drive is a simple procedure even for people with small or no experience of computers repairs, take your time & follow each step carefully, ensuring that you consult the manufacturers documentation for your particular PC model in the event you have trouble with any stage.

!Safety Advice!

Although you won't need to touch any other parts inside the PC case it is advisable (but not essential) to take anti-static precautions when carrying out this procedure

Equipments

To follow the steps in this editorial you will require a Philips screwdriver & an anti-static wristband (optional).

1.       Unplug From Mains & Remove Both Side Panels

The first thing to do is to disconnect the PC from the main power, place the PC on its side on a steady surface & remove both side panels on the case. The side panels will usually slide off time small screws at the back have been removed. NB: some manufacturers may have a "quick release" hinge to remove or both panels so check the manufacturers documentation in case you are not positive how this works.

2.       Remove Front Panel (Facia)

In most cases, the front facia of the PC will require to be removed in order to permit the DVD drive to slide out unobstructed. Removing the panel can vary depending on the manufacturer of the PC but usually time the side panels have been removed you ought to be able to see the plastic clips that attach the front panel to the PC chassis. Usually the plastic clips must be lightly pulled away from the chassis to release the front panel but it is important not to force anything - if attachment method is not instantly obvious then I would strongly recommend consulting the manufacturers documentation than trying to force anything.

3.       Unplug Cables From DVD Drive

The next step will involve you unplugging the connectors from the DVD drive. You ought to be able to fundamentally identify the dvd drive & it will always be positioned in of the top drive bays inside your computer. You will require to remove SATA cable (probably pink in colour) & power connector (usually black).

4.       Remove Screws & Slide-Out Existing DVD Drive

You ought to notice that there is screws holding the DVD drive in place screws on each side). You will require to remove these screws using the Philips screwdriver & be positive to keep the screws handy as you will require these to re-attach the new drive you will be fitting. time the screws have been removed it is feasible for you to to slowly slide the new DVD drive out the front of the computer without any obstructions.

5.       Fit Replacement DVD Drive & Connect Cables

Your new DVD drive ought to be the exact dimensions as the old one so all you will require to do is carefully slide the drive in to the case at the same location from where you removed the earlier drive. Make positive the drive lines up with the screw holes each side & then screw in to place using the screws removed in step. You will also require to re-attach the SATA cable & power connector that you removed in step.

6.       Re-Attach Facia & Side Panels

Now that you have your replacement DVD drive securely fitted, you will require to clip the front panel back onto your PC (this ought to be the reverse of the removal method that you carried out in step). Now fit the side panels back in to place (keep in mind to secure properly using the screws that you removed in step).

7.       Power On & Check Drive

Plug your PC in to the mains & power on as usual. The method ought to power on normally & start loading your operating method. time your operating method has loaded make positive that you check your new DVD drive by ensuring it can recognise & read DVD drives correctly. If for any reason you are unable to see the DVD drive in My Computer or the drive fails to recognise a DVD then power-off the PC & double-check that both cables (SATA & Power) are correctly attached to the unit.

Following this tutorial and replacing a DVD drive yourself will have saved you in the region of 30-40 GBP that this upgrade would cost in a typical computer repair shop and hopefully gained a small confidence in your ability to troubleshoot any issues that you may experience along with your PC in the future.