Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: How do I replace the hard drive on this notebook?

A: Warning: Disconnect the power adapter and the modem and network cables. Remove the battery before removing the hard drive bay cover. Replace the cover before restoring power or reconnecting the modem and network cables.

  1. Back up any data you want to transfer to the new hard drive.

    Note: For information on how to back up your drive, reference the Backing up Files section of the manual Using Your Computer which has been included on your hard drive. To access this guide, from the Start menu, point to All Programs, and then click Gateway Documentation.

  2. Before beginning, review electrostatic discharge (ESD) precautions.

  3. Shut down the computer, and then disconnect the power adapter.

  4. Disconnect the modem and network cables.

  5. Disconnect all peripheral devices and remove any PC cards.

  6. Disconnect your notebook from the optional port replicator.

  7. Turn the computer over, and then remove the battery.

    1. Slide the battery lock to the unlock position.
    2. Slide the battery release latch.
    3. Slide the battery out of the bay.

  8. Loosen the hard drive bay cover screw (this screw cannot be removed).
    Loosen the hard drive bay cover screw.

  9. Remove the hard drive bay cover.
    Remove the hard drive bay cover.

  10. Slide the old hard drive kit away from the hard drive connector.
    Slide the old hard drive kit away from the hard drive connector.

  11. Lift the hard drive kit out of your notebook.
    Lift the hard drive kit out of your notebook.

  12. If your new hard drive already includes the hard drive kit bracket, go to step 15.

    – OR –

    If you need to move the hard drive kit bracket from your old hard drive kit to your new hard drive, go to step 11.

  13. Remove the two screws on each side of the hard drive kit that secure the hard drive to the hard drive bracket.
    Remove the two screws on each side of the hard drive kit.

  14. Remove the bracket from the old drive.

  15. Insert the new drive into the bracket so the screw holes line up, and then replace the two screws on each side, that secure the bracket to the drive.
    Insert the new drive into the bracket, and then replace the two screws.

  16. Slide the new hard drive kit back into the hard drive bay.
    Slide the new hard drive kit back into the hard drive bay.

  17. Replace the hard drive bay cover.
    Replace the hard drive bay cover.

  18. Tighten the cover screw.
    Tighten the cover screw.

  19. Insert the battery, and then turn over the computer.

  20. Reconnect the optional port replicator.

  21. Connect the AC adapter, modem and network cables, and then turn on the computer.