Most people take their computer in to be repaired, for every little thing. Granted, there are things that are complicated enough that they need an expert, but not everything is that hard. Replacing a dead DVD or CD player is one of the easiest repair jobs you can do on a computer. All you need is the new drive, a Phillips head screwdriver and a little patience.
Okay, the first thing you need to do is turn off your computer and unplug the power. If your computer is under your desk, like mine is, you might want to disconnect it and put it on a table where you can get at it easier. Then again, if you’re afraid to remove all those cables, just crawl down there and sit on the floor with your computer.
You need to remove the side covers of your computer. Most newer computer cases come with side covers that are held in place by a plastic latch, or by thumbscrews. Older models use Phillips head screws. Whichever you have, you’ll find it on the back of the computer, where the side bends around the corner. Remove the screws, and slide the cover towards the back to unhook it.
Identify your bad drive by looking for it on the front of your computer. The inside part of it will just look like a metal box about six inches deep and the height and width of the front panel of the drive. There are four screws holding it in place two on each side; this is where you need to use your screwdriver to remove the screws. There are also two connectors on the back of the drive. Carefully remove them, as to not bend the pins. Keep track of these connectors.
You now have your bad drive out of your computer. All you have to do is reverse everything you just did with the new one. The connectors can only go in one way, so you don’t need to worry about getting them backwards. Once you get everything in, reconnect your computer and turn it on.