When you're changing a computer's hard drive, follow the steps carefully and try to remember what goes where. - Norman Grindley/Acting Photography Editor

The durability of computer hard drives depends on the sturdiness and manufacturing quality of the component.

Copeland English, lab technician at Jericho Primary School in St Catherine, said some hard drives will last up to 10 years and longer.

"There are hard drives that will last a period of time. However, in a batch there may be a few which are badly made which will last for a year or two," he stated.

One of the major causes of defective hard drives is a power surge. Therefore, English implores persons to protect their computer systems from potential surges that threaten sensitive equipment.

Protection

"A power surge is the main hard drive killer, so if it's protected, the hard drive will last longer," English said.

He further explained that a system's hard drive is not functioning when the following changes occur:

The operating system is not accessible.

There is a clicking sound due to a power failure on hard drive.

Input and output errors prevent the reading of data from the hard drive.

Besides systems malfunctions, some persons' hard drives may be too small for today's new software programmes and advanced technology. In this case, it is advisable to back up the information on the hard drive that will be changed.

This can be done by copying the documents that you've saved to an external device. Also, keep handy the installation discs for any specialised software. You'll need to reinstal these programmes when you get your new drive up and running.

Changing the hard drive yourself gives you the option of saving thousands of dollars in repair fees.

But, what is the procedure to change one?

Removing a hard drive

Disconnect the computer from the power source.

Remove cover from PC.

Locate the hard drive.

Follow ribbon to the appropriate connector (data cable).

Disconnect the hard drive from the ribbon and unplug the power plug from the hard drive and remove.

Remove the hard drive from the bracket.

Installing a new hard drive

Choose the correct-size hard drive to replace the old one.

Check the hard-drive connectors for the jumper setting.

Make sure the plastic pin on the end of the hard drive is set to 'Master' or 'CS' (cable select) if you are installing a main hard drive.

Make sure the plastic pin on the end of the hard drive is set to 'Save' if you are installing a back-up hard drive. The settings of the new hard drive should be the same as the old one.

Place the hard drive into the bracket.

Attach the ribbon to the matching plug on the hard drive and connect the power cable.

Replace PC cover.

Reconnect power source to PC.

Start machine and format your hard drive as necessary.

nadisha.hunter@gleanerjm.com.