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    Optical Drive Replacement - Envy 14

    Discussion in 'HP' started by pongalong, Mar 3, 2011.

  1. pongalong

    pongalong Notebook Consultant

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    My optical drive is getting pretty noisy so I'm thinking of picking up a replacement. Will just about any 9.5mm slim drive fit into the Envy 14 or will I have to get one from the HP parts store?

    I'm also considering getting an external bluray drive and using the optical bay to make room for an SSD. Does anyone have recommendations? Preferably I'd like one that has a reputation for doing accurate audio rips (dbpoweramp).
     
    pongalong, Mar 3, 2011
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  2. akashhhhh

    akashhhhh Notebook Consultant

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    Search for threads on replacing the optical for an SSD, this thread in particular is helpful: http://forum.notebookreview.com/hp-envy-hdx/499592-envy-14-uk-thread-55.html#post6695204

    I did it the other day using the new modeus caddy (a bit pricier but fits perfectly) and it was fairly straightforward. My three additions to that guide would be: 1) Be sure to use the hatch under the battery to disconnect the touchpad, much easier than doing it the way mentioned in the guide. 2) Know how to disconnect a zif connector (don't just pull) 3) Be CAREFUL with your screws 4) If you're installing the SSD as your primary drive be sure to use the optical to install windows before you remove it :p (unless you want to boot it off an external usb disk or optical drive.

    Everything else was straightforward, pleased with the results.
     
    akashhhhh, Mar 3, 2011
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