How to transform an internal hard drive into an external one without a case
Introduction:
Do you have an old HDD internal that you don't use and would like to convert it into an external hard drive? This situation can occur for various reasons, such as the need to have more storage space or the need to reuse an old hard drive instead of buying a new one. Although it may seem like a complicated task, the truth is that you don't need a box to transform an internal hard drive into an external one. In this article, we will explain to you in detail and step by step how to carry out this transformation accurately and safely. Whether you are an experienced technician or a beginner in the field of computing, you will find this article very useful.
Identifying the Type of Hard Drive Internal
The first task before you can reuse your old internal hard drive as an external hard drive is identify your type. The two main types of hard drives are IDE (also known as PATA) and SATA. Hard drives IDEs are older and already deprecated. They can be identified by their width, as they have 40 pins. On the other hand, the hard drives SATA are more modern and used in most computers today. These are thinner and have 7 pins.
Before you remove the hard drive from your old computer and turn it into an external hard drive, you need to get some materials. Here's a list of things you'll probably need:
- A screwdriver to remove the hard drive of the computer.
- A suitable adapter cable. If your hard drive is an IDE, you will need an IDE to USB adapter. If it is a SATA, you will need a SATA to USB adapter.
- A power supply for the hard drive. Your old hard drive probably requires more power than a standard USB port can provide, so you'll need an external power source.
Depending on the type of disc you will determine the necessary material for its transformation, so it is vital to correctly identify the type of hard drive you are going to work with.
Precautions to Take Before Transformation
Before starting the transformation process a hard drive internal to external, it is very important to take certain precautions to guarantee a safe and successful job. The main one is Make sure you have a suitable adapter for connecting your hard drive externally., this must be suitable for both the connection interface of your drive (SATA or IDE) and the port into which it will be connected (generally USB). It is also advisable to have a clean workspace, free of metal objects and static electricity that could damage the sensitive components of the hard drive.
Additionally, It is essential to backup all the information contained on the hard drive before starting the process. Even when done carefully, this process can carry a risk of data loss. If your hard drive houses the operating system from your computer, you should also prepare to reinstall it on a new internal hard drive. To avoid possible conflicts, it is also important to confirm the compatibility of both the adapter and the hard drive with and operating system that you are going to use. Finally, although not absolutely necessary, having an external enclosure can offer an additional layer of protection for your converted hard drive.
Tools Needed for Conversion
Before you begin converting your internal hard drive to an external one, you need to have some essential tools on hand. First, you must Get a adapter hard drive, which will help you connect your internal hard drive to your PC. This adapter usually comes with a power supply and a USB interface for easy connection. Another crucial item is a screwdriver, preferably a Phillips head, to remove the hard drive cover screws.
You will also need to have a USB cable to establish the connection between the hard drive and your computer. As for software, it is advisable to have a copy of the operating system that you want to install on the new hard drive. Make sure you have a clean, static-free work environment, since this could damage the components hard drive. A microfiber cloth can be useful to clean dust and other particles from the hard drive before beginning the process.
Step-by-Step Process to Convert an Internal Hard Drive into an External Hard Drive
First, you will need the appropriate tools and materials. You should have a SATA to USB connection cable on hand, which is the key item to perform this conversion. This cable will allow your internal hard drive to connect to your computer via the USB port. Additionally, you'll also need an external power source if the internal hard drive you're converting requires more power than a USB port can provide. Some SATA to USB connection cables come with an external power supply.
Before starting the conversion process, Make sure the information on your hard drive is backed up. This is to prevent any accidental loss of data in case something goes wrong during the conversion. With the materials ready, you can now begin the process. Connect one end of the SATA to USB cable on your hard drive and the other end into the USB port of your computer. If your hard drive requires additional power, connect your power supply to the hard drive and then to the power outlet. Turn on your computer and you should be able to see your hard drive in the “My Computer” or “This Computer” section of your computer. You have now successfully converted your internal hard drive into a external hard drive.
Proper Maintenance of the New External Hard Drive
Once you have transformed your old internal hard drive into a new external hard drive, proper protection and care They are essential to ensure its long term operation. Make sure the hard drive is in a safe place, free of dust and dirt. As an external device, it is especially susceptible to physical damage, so it is advisable to keep it away from high traffic or potentially dangerous areas. Also, don't forget to regularly perform backup of the stored data to ensure its integrity.
proper care It also means keeping the hard drive software updated. This may include the operating system and any other software you may be using with the hard drive. Perform regular checks for available updates and install them to ensure the better performance possible. Also, focus on cleaning your disk with special tools that help eliminate temporary or unnecessary files.
- Move the hard drive away from high traffic or potentially dangerous areas.
- Make regular backup copies of stored data.
- Perform regular software updates.
- Perform regular disk cleanings with specialized tools.
Periodic maintenance to your external hard drive will guarantee trouble-free operation and a long useful life, avoiding the loss of valuable information.