Replacing an SSD on a laptop – may be necessary in two cases. Failure of an old HDD or SSD. In the second case, an increase in the amount of internal memory. But, in both cases, the algorithm of actions is the same.
Let’s consider the procedure for replacing a hard disk using the example of an ASUS Eee netbook. Although some new models of ASUS Eee netbooks come with solid-state drives already installed.
Replacing an SSD with ASUS Eee
Still, many earlier versions of the device came with standard 2.5-inch HDD. ASUS did this in an attempt to keep the price of an early-generation Eee PC relatively low.
However, ASUS has been developing early versions of the netbook with support for SSD drives. In case the owners decide to install them. After the release of the early Eee PCs, prices for solid-state drives dropped significantly.
SSD drives provide a significant increase in performance compared to standard hard drives. And they are also relatively easy to install in Eee series netbooks.
Replacing an SSD on an ASUS laptop – preparation
So, replacing HDD with SSD will require a new device and certain skills. First of all, you should take care of the safety of personal data. A set of screwdrivers should be prepared. They will be needed to open the lid. The algorithm of actions:
Connect a USB flash drive or an external hard drive to an Eee PC. Back up all your important data files to a removable disk. It doesn’t make sense to copy system programs.
Turn off the ASUS Eee PC netbook. Disconnect the AC adapter and close the screen. Flip the Eee PC. Unlock the battery pack and remove it from the bottom of the Eee PC.
Disassembling the laptop
Using a phillips screwdriver, unscrew the two screws that secure the memory compartment cover. Unscrew the screws just above the battery compartment. Remove the compartment cover and set it aside.
Unlock the clips on the sides of the memory module. After the module appears, remove the memory card from the ASUS Eee. Use a phillips screwdriver to remove the two or four screws that secure the memory module card inside the Eee. Pull out the module slot card from the connector on the motherboard.
Remove the four mounting screws that secure the hard drive in the memory compartment. Disconnect the hard drive ribbon cable from the motherboard. Remove the hard drive from the netbook and set it aside. When removing the memory card and hard disk, the slot for the SSD connector opens.
Thus, the hard disk is extracted. You can install a new one. Perform the procedure carefully! Try not to damage anything. If there are dust or dirt particles, it is better to remove them from the memory compartment.
Replacing an SSD – Installing SSD
Now it is possible to replace the hard drive with an SSD. Further actions will allow you to complete the process of changing the drive.
Align the notch on the SSD board or the drive connector with the notch on the SSD slot on the motherboard. Insert the SSD or insert it into the slot. Then align the screw holes with the holes on the motherboard.
Use the two screws that you removed from the drive mounting bracket to secure the SSD board or drive to the motherboard.
Secure the memory card slot. Re-install the mounting screws and tighten them. Insert the RAM memory module back into the slot and lock it in place.
ASUS Eee Assembly
Replace the memory compartment cover. Insert the screws of the compartment cover and tighten them. Insert the Eee battery into the appropriate compartment. Turn the computer right side up.
Now connect the AC adapter to the ASUS Eee PC. Turn on the netbook. Connect an external optical drive or USB drive to your computer and reinstall Windows.
After reinstalling the operating system, copy the backup copies of the files to the new Eee PC hard drive. At this point, replacing the disk with an SSD can be considered complete. It remains only to copy the personal data to the media.
Tips and recommendations
After replacing the Eee PC hard drive, you must reinstall the operating system. Install Windows or another operating system on a blank disk. If necessary, split it and format it.
If you have removed a workable HDD or SSD, then the question arises – how can it be used. You can use an old 2.5-inch drive in an external USB case. Thus, you will get a portable drive.