How to replace laptop HDD

--Tony--

Hi,

I have bought a new 160GB HDD for my laptop (its got 30GB at moment).

I have the software (Paragon Drive Copy) and a USB enclosure so thought I was set.

I can only see a 128GB disk and it appears 128 is the limit of my enclosure.

I have been looking on ebay, most dont state a limit others say 40GB, 80GB or 100GB but I cant find a 2.5" enclosure to take a 160GB drive.

Is there any other easy way to copy a laptop drive?

Thanks Tony

MercilessKiller

Are you sure thats the encloser limit? what version of windows have u got on the laptop inc service packs... as an earlier problem was that the drive wouldn't appear higher than 130gbish....

If it is then you could just replace the drive! There should be a screwin compartment in the bottom of the laptop.. u take the current one out and slot the new one in. Its really not difficult even for a none teccy

HTH

--Tony--

MercilessKiller wrote:

Are you sure thats the encloser limit? what version of windows have u got on the laptop inc service packs... as an earlier problem was that the drive wouldn't appear higher than 130gbish....

If it is then you could just replace the drive! There should be a screwin compartment in the bottom of the laptop.. u take the current one out and slot the new one in. Its really not difficult even for a none teccy

HTH

Its windows XP Home, I though it was the laptop BIOS limiting the HDD (its the same problem) but its not, the guy at Toshiba said if its connected by USB they any size would be seen (this is Right as I have an external 320gb drive).

The enclosure is only USB1.1 and I am sure its a limitation of the enclosure. If I buy a new USB 2.0 enclosure I need to be sure it can take a 160GB drive, as I say it turns out a lot of usb 2.0 also have quite low limits.

If I just put the drive in the laptop I will have to start with a fresh install which i don't want to do, i need to image and copy my existing one.

MercilessKiller

I think i saw a post that Maplin Electronics have an external usb 2.0 drive quite cheap atm around 160GB... something like £69.99 or something.. though it mite be 10 or 20 more expensive, the advantage is that you can go in, ask them if it will work.. if they say yes you can try it and if it doesnt work you can take it back

I'd deifnitely advise you to do that if you have a Maplin Electronics nearby!

Avoriaz

--Tony-- wrote:

..If I just put the drive in the laptop I will have to start with a fresh install which i don't want to do, i need to image and copy my existing one.

That is what I would do. Much better than having an external drive.

Most systems benefit from an occasional re install.

buglawton

Hoiw did you format your new HD? NTFS should give the best result.