Changing DVD Drive

The DVDRW drive in my friends 5400 has stopped working. I have found a replacement for $67 (slim form factor) from newegg and would like to change the factory with a aftermarket.

Can anyone post or show me where I can get step by step (preferably with images) directions to changing a Averatech (front loading) DVD drive ?

Thanks in advance

 

If your media bay is modular, its nothing more that pressing a latch and yanking out your optical drive.

If its a fixed bay, the replacement is going to be more involved. There may be information specific to your model online at Averetec support.

 

In case no one points you to detailed instructions, here are some suggestions:

First shut down the computer and remove all cables and the battery.

Look underneath the computer for any screws near the approximate edge of the optical drive (image a square big enough to hold a disc). They may be marked, but whether or not they are marked remove them (there may only be one) and see if you can pull the drive out.

If this doesn't work, look for any screws which might hold the keyboard in place (these are opfen marked "K") and remove them. Then open the computer. Usually, the keyboard is held at the edges by some spring-loaded latches. Use a small screwdriver to both push each latch back and lift the keyboard slightly so that it is no longer held down. Sometimes there are latches on one side and tabs on the other, so first you release the latches then move the keyboard slightly in order to release the tabs. Fold the keyboard back carefully. You may then find a screw or two near the edge of the optical drive. Try removing these and see if the drive comes free.

If neither of these work, then you will have to look harder.

Assuming that you have got the drive out you will need to unscrew any fixing brackets and probably prise off the bezel (unless whatever is on the new drive is physically the right size). The bezel is normally held on by two or three plastic hooks which you can carefully release with a screwdriver. Then put the fixing bracket(s) and bezel on the new drive and install it.

Good luck.

John

PS: I believe that many/all Averatec notebooks are made by Twinhead. You could try to find out the equivalent Twinhead model (eg use SiSoftware Sandra to see the make / model of the mainboard. Then search for manuals for that Twinhead model (other other brand, if appropriate).

 

Thank you for the info, I'll search a bit more then I'll try it blindly (keeping your tips in mind)

 

The 6100's were made by Uniwill