Introduction: Hey there, it’s Simon, and welcome back to another upgrade guide! Today, I’ll be walking you through the process of upgrading the secondary M.2 SSD drive on an Alienware M18 R1 laptop. If you’re looking to expand your storage capacity and add an additional M.2 SSD, you’ve come to the right place. Let’s dive in and get started!
Identifying the Model: Before we begin, take a moment to identify your laptop model. If you have an Alienware M18 R1, then you’re in the right spot. Now, grab your Philips screwdriver as we prepare to access the internals of the laptop.
Removing the Back Cover: Start by removing the screws from the back cover of the laptop. There are four screws at the bottom, but note that the two in the middle won’t come off completely. Once the screws are removed, carefully pry open the back cover, starting from the corner. Slide the cover down and away from the body of the laptop to reveal the internal components.
Locating the M.2 Slot: Inside, you’ll find the M.2 slot where you can install the additional SSD. Look for the M.2 2230 slot, which is compatible with the secondary drive. If you’re unsure which M.2 SSD to purchase, check the description below for links to compatible options ranging from 1TB to 4TB in size.
Installing the Secondary M.2 SSD: To install the secondary M.2 SSD, first, remove the screw securing the slot. Then, insert the SSD into the slot at a 45° angle and push it down until it’s seated properly. Secure the SSD in place by tightening the screw.
Initializing the Disk: After installing the SSD, it’s essential to initialize the disk to ensure your computer recognizes it. Upon booting up your laptop, navigate to Disk Management by right-clicking on the Start icon on the desktop. Locate the uninitialized disk (indicated by a black line) and initialize it to format the disk properly.
Reassembling the Laptop: Once you’ve initialized the disk, it’s time to reassemble the laptop. Simply slide the back cover back into place, ensuring everything aligns correctly with the top bracket. Secure the cover by reinstalling the screws, and you’re all set!
Conclusion: And there you have it! With your secondary M.2 SSD successfully installed, you’ve expanded your storage capacity and boosted your laptop’s performance. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to drop a comment below. Don’t forget to check the description for links to compatible M.2 SSDs and tools. Thanks for watching, and until next time, happy upgrading!
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