How to Replace the Hard Drive in a HP Pavilion a6000 Desktop

How to Replace the Hard Drive in a HP Pavilion a6000 Desktop

The HP Pavilion a6000 desktop computer is a solid machine that can be configured to the buyer’s liking with a multitude of different options such as processors, graphics processors, and hard drive configurations. If the original hard drive installed in the computer is not enough storage for your needs, or if the original hard drive has failed, you may need to replace it. Fortunately, the a6000 uses a hard drive “cage” that makes adding or replacing drives simple. Follow the steps below to replace your hard drive.

1. Back up any important files from the original drive. If you are upgrading to a larger drive, consider making an image of the drive and copying it to the new drive so that you won’t have to reinstall the operating system.

2. Turn off the computer and disconnect all cables, including the power cable. You may wish to use an anti-static wrist band to avoid damaging the computer with static electricity as well.

3. Turn the computer around so you can access the back. Remove the thumbscrew about mid-way up the left side, then grab the handle above the screw and pull the side panel back toward you and lift it away from the chassis. Gently lay the computer down on its side so that the open side is facing up.

4. Locate the hard drive cage inside near the bottom rear of the chassis. Remove the two screws that hold it in place.

5. Push down on the latch near the front of the cage and slide the hard drive cage away from the chassis. Lift the cage until you have access to the cables, and remove them from the drive. Make note of where the cables were so you can reconnect them to the new drive.

6. Remove the four screws securing the drive to the cage. There are two screws on either side. Slide the drive out of the cage.

7. Slide the drive into the cage in the same orientation as the previous drive, and secure it in place with the four screws.

8. Reconnect the cables and place the cage back in the chassis. Align the guides at the bottom and slide it into place, then replace the two screws that hold the cage in place.

9. Replace the side panel on the chassis and the thumb screw.

You can now reconnect all cables and boot the computer to confirm that the hard drive is recognized by the system. If you did not image your original drive, you may need to reinstall the operating system.