A DVR uses a hard drive just like the one in your computer to record and play back television programming. The more gigabytes of storage the unit has, the more hours of programming it can hold.
Replacing the drive is relatively quick and easy, because it uses standard computer hardware. Once you have opened the case and discovered what type of drive your DVR has, you can pick up a replacement at any electronics store.
Though this process does require opening the unit, none of the steps are complicated, and users of any skill level can replace the drive without the services of a professional.
Instructions
1. Disconnect your DVR by unplugging any cables connected to it, including the power cable. Remove the screws located on the back of the unit that hold the top cover in place. There are usually two to six of these screws, depending on the model of DVR. Lay these screws in a safe place where they won't get lost, and slide the cover off.
2. Locate the hard drive. This is a rectangular metal unit that measures 3 1/2 inches wide. It is usually located away from the other hardware, often in its own bracket. There will be two to four screws holding it in place. Remove these, disconnect the cables connected to the drive, and slide it out of the system.
3. Check the label of the drive to see if it is IDE or SATA. It will say which one of the two interfaces it uses. Any replacement desktop hard drive of the same interface type will work in your DVR. Avoid using a laptop drive, because they won't fit and aren't designed for the high-stress environment of video streaming.
4. Place the new drive into the brackets, and replace the screws that were removed from the old one. Plug the data and power cables into this drive. They will insert the same way they came out of the old one. Once the drive has been installed, put the cover back on the DVR unit, and replace the screws. Hook the DVR back up to the television, and it will be ready to record.
Tags: hard drive, back television, back unit, cables connected, replace screws, these screws