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    Replacing S series hard drive

    Discussion in 'VAIO / Sony' started by WesleyJ, Jul 19, 2004.

  1. WesleyJ

    WesleyJ Newbie

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    I was wondering if anyone knew how accessable the hard drives are on these computers. This computer seems awesome, but the prices Sony charges for hard drives are ridiculous!

    So is replacing the hard drive relatively easy? Or does it require completely taking apart the system?

    Thanks!
     
    WesleyJ, Jul 19, 2004
    #1
  2. Andrew Baxter

    Andrew Baxter -

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    I can't answer specifically to the S series, but I can answer by saying that in general Sony notebooks are not very modular and replacing a hard drive or optical drive is hard/impossible.
     
    Andrew Baxter, Jul 19, 2004
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  3. magic168

    magic168 Notebook Geek

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    I have no idea about the S series, but on the GR series, replacing the hard drive was simple. I would like to find out also, because paying $250 for the 5400rpm upgrade is just crazy.
     
    magic168, Jul 20, 2004
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  4. darrow

    darrow Notebook Geek

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    An early Japanese article suggested it would be difficult to upgrade the hard drive (but they didn't say impossible).

    Anyway, I'm also very eager to hear if a user upgrade is possible. If anyone with an S is feeling especially adventurous, I'd also like to know if the CPU is in a socket (and potentially upgradeable) or soldered to the motherboard.
     
    darrow, Jul 20, 2004
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  5. real_mav

    real_mav Newbie

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    http://pc.watch.impress.co.jp/docs/2004/0616/ubiq393.jpg

    here's a picture of the inside of the S series. Apparently, it looks like the keyboard or top side of the laptop. HOw they got to that i have no idea. But it looks like you can replace the HD after a few more screws.
     
    real_mav, Jul 20, 2004
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  6. darrow

    darrow Notebook Geek

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    Although it does sound involved, there has been a report of a successful hard drive and CPU replacement on an S150 over on notebookforums. We're hoping for pictures soon.

    http://notebookforums.com/337584
     
    Last edited by a moderator: Feb 2, 2015
    darrow, Jul 20, 2004
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  7. darrow

    darrow Notebook Geek

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    Last edited by a moderator: Feb 2, 2015
    darrow, Jul 20, 2004
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  8. shboyles

    shboyles Notebook Consultant

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    You can also replace your CPU using these instructions as well
     
    shboyles, Jul 20, 2004
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  9. Skyshade

    Skyshade Notebook Deity NBR Reviewer

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    Does replacing hard drive void your warranty? I thought I read it somewhere in Sony Support that says it doesn't, but can't find that now.

    Thanks for the great work (and boldness), shboyles. Would like to thank you in notebookforum.com, but not registered [ :p].
     
    Skyshade, Jul 21, 2004
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  10. real_mav

    real_mav Newbie

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    Quote from Sony Warranty:

    "Be sure to remove all third party hardware, software, features, parts, options, alterations, and attachments not warranted by SONY prior to sending the product to SONY for service. SONY is not liable for any loss or damage to these items.

    This Limited Warranty does not cover...damage due to...(4) attempted repair by any party other than a SONY authorized personal computer service facility; or (5) tampering with internal components. "

    Apparently, if you damage ur computer because of upgrading, the warranty is voided. However, sony also tells you to remove all "thirdy party hardware" before the company looks at it. If the damage is not related to the upgrade, they will cover it. Just make sure u put all the old parts back. But then, if sony suspects anything, they could just blame you and say that the problem is because of your upgrading job.
     
    real_mav, Jul 21, 2004
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  11. Skyshade

    Skyshade Notebook Deity NBR Reviewer

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    <blockquote id='quote'> quote:<hr height='1' noshade id='quote'>Originally posted by real_mav
     
    Last edited by a moderator: May 8, 2015
    Skyshade, Jul 21, 2004
    #11