How to open a computer case - hardware parts

Caution

Before working inside a computer, disconnect all the cables, including the power cable from the back of the computer. Also, make sure you're aware of the potential dangers of ESD (electrostatic discharge), and take precautions to prevent it.

There's no standard for how to open a computer case, which means how you open your case depends on the manufacturer of your case. Below are the three most common methods to open a computer case.

Next, identify the model of chassis you're using. Below is a short list of different ways a computer case cover is held in place.

Screw - Case held on with screws.

Thumbscrew - Case with screws that require no special tools. Can be tightened and loosened with your fingers. Often, these screws also have indents that allow them to work with tools if needed.

Screwless - Case with no screws, only held together with metal or plastic clamps that release from the case by pressing buttons or switches.

Once screws are removed from the back of the case, push the side cover of the computer case towards the back of the computer. Either the side of the computer case will slide off, or the complete cover will be removed.

How to install computer memory (RAM)

Note:

When handling memory, hold it by the sides at each end of the module. Be careful not to bend, flex, or drop the memory while handling it. When installing the memory, distribute the pressure evenly by pressing on both corners of the memory module.

Make sure that the notches match up with the memory slot you are installing the memory into. These notches allow the memory to be installed only in one direction. If the memory is incompatible, it will not physically match with the slot.

After verifying the notches and direction, the memory needs to be installed, and move each memory slot tab out or away from the memory module. These tabs will snap into place as the memory module is installed.

Once these tabs are moved out, gently and firmly push the memory module into the slot. As the memory module is being pushed, the two tabs should snap and hold the memory module into place.

After the memory is installed in the computer, plug the computer back in, and turn it back on. As the computer is booting, the memory should be automatically detected and set up. If you have any difficulties with the memory detected or set up, enter the BIOS setup, and verify the memory is correctly detected by the system.

How to install a hard drive or SSD

Identify the drive interface and plug in the cables

The interface varies depending on your new drive. You need to know which connection type your computer has available so you can connect the drive to power and the motherboard after you get it mounted.

Software setup

Once the hard drive is detected in BIOS, it may need set up with software\ OS provided by your drive manufacturer. If the hard drive is not plug-and-play, use a bootable disk to prepare the setup.