Computers utilize a system of components to operate at peak performance. Many applications and programs are stored on media that require an optical drive to interpret their data. Optical drives are commonly just the DVD or CD-ROM drive in the computer. These drives sometimes fail or need upgrading to a newer model, which requires the user to install or change a computer's optical drive.
Instructions
1. Unplug the power or A/C cord from the rear of the case or directly from the wall outlet. Press and hold the power button on the computer for a few seconds to discharge any remaining charges within motherboard capacitors.
2. Open the computer case to gain access to the optical drive. Remove the case cover or panel by manipulating a series of thumbscrews or sliding a side panel.
3. Locate the optical drive within the computer case drive bays. Look for the optical drive bays near the top of the computer case. Gently relocate any wiring to reveal the optical drive.
4. Disconnect any wiring from the rear of the optical drive. The wiring may resemble a ribbon cable or a thin ATA cable. Remove the four-pinned, multi-colored power cable, as well.
5. Remove the screws that hold the optical drive to the system of rails in the case. Typically, there are four to eight Philips head screws holding the drive in.
6. Slide the optical drive from the front of the computer case. Gently push the drive from the rear until you can get a grip on the drive from the front. Pull the drive from the case.
7. Insert new optical drive into the same drive bay, and follow these steps in reverse to install the new optical drive.
Tags: optical drive, computer case, drive from, optical drive, from rear, case Gently