To disconnect a powered drive:

1.Disconnect the drive from the computer.

2.Disconnect the AC power cord.

Improving hard drive performance

Using Disk Defragmenter

As you use the computer, files on the hard drive become fragmented. Disk Defragmenter consolidates the fragmented files and folders on the hard drive so that the system runs more efficiently.

After starting Disk Defragmenter, it works without supervision. Depending on the size of the hard drive and the number of fragmented files, Disk Defragmenter might take more than an hour to complete. Set it to run during the night or another time when you do not need access to the computer.

HP recommends defragmenting the hard drive at least once a month. Set Disk Defragmenter to run on a monthly schedule, but the computer can be defragmented manually at any time.

To run Disk Defragmenter:

1.Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Defragmenter.2.Click Defragment disk.

NOTE: Windows includes the User Account Control feature to improve the security of the computer. You might be prompted for your permission or password for tasks such as installing software, running utilities, or changing Windows settings. For more information, see Help and Support.

For more information, see the Disk Defragmenter software Help.

Using Disk Cleanup

Disk Cleanup searches the hard drive for unnecessary files that, when safely deleted, free up disk space and help the computer to run more efficiently.

To run Disk Cleanup:

1.Select Start > All Programs > Accessories > System Tools > Disk Cleanup.

2.Follow the on-screen instructions.

Replacing a drive in the primary hard drive bay

CAUTION: To prevent information loss or an unresponsive system:

Shut down the computer before removing the hard drive from the hard drive bay. Do not remove the hard drive while the computer is on or in Sleep or Hibernation.

If you are not sure whether the computer is off or in Hibernation, turn on the computer by pressing the Power button, and then shut down the computer through the operating system.

To remove the primary hard drive:

1.Save your work.

2.Shut down the computer and close the display.

3.Disconnect all external hardware devices connected to the computer.

56 Chapter 6 Drives