Really stupid question...about replacing a HD...

I consider myself somewhat savvy when it comes to "computers" but I've never replaced a hard drive before. I just bought a used Thinkpad x30 from ebay, and while it'll serve all the simple needs I got it for, and is portable and sexy to boot, but it comes with an awful 20gb 4200 RPM HD.

I have no idea how to replace the thing, but I will worry about that once I go down that route, and apparently it's not that hard. But what about the OS? If I put in a new HD, doesn't that mean all my drivers, the operating system, and everything else that makes a computer "work" when it was brand new...isn't that all on the original HD?

In other words, I'm not sure what would happen if I took out the old hard drive and put in a new, better one. What will happen?

Sorry if I sound like a complete idiot. When it comes to this, I actually am. Thanks!

 

replacing the HD is very easy. easier on a notebook than a desktop.

usually it's 1 or 2 screws under the computer, remove drive from computer, remove drive from caddy, put new drive in caddy, replace drive, install OS, drivers and applications.

if you want detailed instructions, the levono (maybe IBM?) site should have user guides online. as well, the site should have drivers for your system also.

if you're computer savvy, you'll have no problems.

just make sure your new drive has the same connector.

 

I guess turning the computer on for the first time with the new drive, it will boot in DOS or maybe some kind of BIOS program, right? And then I put in the necessary discs and install as necessary? I don't think my computer will ship with the XP disc (few do brand new, anyway....). Is it common to make some kind of "installation disc" from the old hard drive, then install it off of that?

 

it will behave the exact same way a desktop HD would that has nothing on it.

you will boot thru POST and then you'll get an error saying that no operating system is found. to install OS, simply do as you would on a desktop... boot with your XP cd and you're on you're way

EDIT: the Dell forum has a "reformat your computer" guide that SoutherGirl has written. take a look at that. you will need an XP CD. if you don't get an XP cd with your computer, you'll have to purchase one.

 

Make sure that the HDD you buy will be compatible with your X30. You need to verify wether it uses a 1.5" or 2.5" HDD. You also need to make sure wether your X30 uses the older PATA connection or the newer SATA. SATA is NOT backward compatible with PATA.