Is your MacBook Pro no longer working like it used to do? Perhaps it is slower or sometimes freezing? Do you hear strange noises from your laptop? How about files that are not opening?
If you have any of these problems, you might be considering buying a new one. However, it is best to check your hard drive first because the chances are high that they are the reason for your problems. Before employing the service of a computer repair technician, read on to find out how you can replace your hard drive with a new one all on your own.
Is Your Storage Still Hard Disk Drive (HDD)?
Your storage stores all of your data, and it uses physical forces like movement and magnets to operate. Since there are moving parts in HDD, it eventually fails sometimes, which is probably the reason you encounter the problems.
If your hard drive is still the old version, which is the HDD, you should consider replacing it with the newest solid-state drive (SSD). There are no moving parts in the SSD, which makes it more durable and faster than its predecessor.
MacBook Pro HDD-to-SSD Replacement Steps
Before anything else, you should create a backup of all your data in case something unexpected happens. Remember that before any computer repair, backing up your data is always a prerequisite. You can directly do that with your exposed SSD by connecting it to your MacBook with a SATA-to-USB cable.
Open the Disk Utility app under the applications folder. Then, select Partition on the SSD icon. Click on the GUID Partition Table after you click the Options menu at the bottom part of the Partition window.
Your system needs you to verify disk permissions. Do this by selecting “Repair Disk Permissions” in the “First Aid Tab.” Click Verify Disk, then Repair Disk right after. After you’ve done everything, you should reboot your laptop. Remember to hold the “Option Key” as your device starts to go into the Recovery Disk page.
Click Reinstall Mac OS then use your SSD as the destination disk. Once reinstalled, your system will ask you for your preferred hard drive, so select the storage where you blacked-up your data. This process will take a long time, so you can have a meal or watch a movie, then come back later.
The next step is to replace your HDD with your new SSD. Separate the bottom part of your MacBook Pro to reveal a plastic covering. Underneath the plastic covering is your HDD already. Unscrew the plastic covering to reveal your HDD, and remove it carefully to avoid damaging the port. You should be able to see a SATA ribbon connected to one end of the hard drive. Disconnect the attachment by wiggling the connector. Whatever you do, do not disconnect the ribbon itself. Otherwise, you might damage it.
Now you have removed your old HDD. It is time to install your SSD. Connect your SSD with the SATA ribbon. Then, place your SSD in the hard drive slot. Reattach the plastic covering and screw it tightly. Then, close your bottom panel, and you’re done.
If you’re looking for a computer repair technician in Greenwood, Indiana. Get in touch with us, and we’ll be happy to help!