How to install a secondary drive to your PC

Kingston has created a helpful video on how to install SATA storage drives (HDD/SSD) in your PC, which you can watch below.


We have also written a guide on how to do it.

Once you have physically installed your hard disk, it's important to allocate it. We have prepared a guide on how to do that here.
________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Upgrading a hard disk is one of the easiest ways to provide your PC with more storage space.

You'll need a standard Phillips screwdriver and a SATA cable. If you're replacing a single hard disk, you can use the existing SATA cable. Your power supply likely has an available SATA power connection, and often, multiple connectors are available.

If you're working in an area prone to static electricity, it's a good idea to use an anti-static wristband. Finally, you'll need a bowl or cup to hold screws.

Turn off your machine, disconnect all cables, and move it to your work area.

If you know the configuration of your computer's internal components, feel free to position it at the most accessible angle. If not, just leave it upright. You may need to remove several panels for a full installation.

Remove the side panel; it's the one on the left if you're looking at your computer from the front. Most designs require removing two to three screws from the back before it slides or swings out to access the motherboard.

Take a moment to orient yourself.

You should be able to see your computer's hard disk mounted towards the front of the case; in some cases, they may be installed differently. If you can't see either a 3.5-inch hard disk or a smaller 2.5-inch hard disk, it may be mounted elsewhere; in newer designs, this is often behind the motherboard. Remove the second panel on your computer to check.

A SATA data cable should run from the motherboard to the hard disk, and a SATA power cable should run from the power supply to the hard disk.

If you don't need to keep your old hard disk for additional storage, it's now time to remove it. You can leave the cables attached to the motherboard and power supply, then connect them to the new hard disk after installation.

First, unplug the connectors and power cables from the back of the old hard disk. When pulling out the cables, they have a small locking mechanism you'll need to squeeze first.

If the hard disk is on a sliding caddy, remove it (note that some sliding caddies may be screwed in place). Now, use your screwdriver to remove the screws from the hard disk, whether it's in a caddy or directly mounted in the computer. Both are okay, but we recommend using a caddy for 3.5-inch hard disks as they have mechanical parts and need the extra stability.

The screws come in various sizes and lengths, some including silicone spacers for sound dampening, and can be mounted on the bottom of the hard disk or the side depending on your case design. It doesn't matter; just remove them or set them aside in a place where you won't lose them.

Set aside your old hard disk, handle it carefully, but don't worry too much—they are quite robust.

To install the new hard disk in place of the old one, you'll simply reverse the process. Place the new hard disk in the caddy and then slide it into place in the case (and secure it if necessary).

Now, plug in the cables to the new hard disk; they only fit one way.

Once you have physically installed your hard disk, it's important to allocate it. We have prepared a guide on how to do that here.