one of the many articles I found  http://wdc.custhelp.com/cgi-bin/wdc.cfg/php/enduser/std_adp.php?p_sid=rX1SvxTj&p_accessibility=0&p_redirect=&p_search_text=install%20new%20internal%20hard%20drive&p_widx=1&p_faqid=1086&p_topview=1

#2 and #3 should be in your Dell's owner's manual and is not a Western Digital issue

Thanks for the reply.  I've already downloaded this software.  It will not allow me to run until I physically install the new hard drive.  I do not want to do this.  I also have opened and copied the "Data LIfeguard Tools" PDF software manual and do not find anything like this in the Acronis True Image stuff.  I have abandoned any hope of using any information  from WD. 

 Are you familiar with the MaxBlast software and can I follow the steps that I posted to accomplish my goal using this software?

Roadracer240:

All you need is an IDE cable with connectors for two drives, and then you can plug in both drives at once and perform the cloning operation. It shouldn't be too complicated. Just remember to set the jumper to cable select.

Thanks.  The IDE cable for the existing drive has a second connector.  My question is...how and where do you mount the device?  I was hoping that I could image the existing drive to removable CD's, take out the existing drive and replace it with the new drive.

I suppose that I need a mounting rack of some sort to add the second drive.  If so, how do i reference my case tower and existing mount so that whatever I purchase will work for both drives?  The existing drive has a metal U-shaped cage screwed to the drive and to the case. 

If I am successful adding the second drive, do you recommend the Acronis Ture Image WD Edition software for cloning or some other?

read this about adding a 2nd hard drive http://en.community.dell.com/forums/p/18332314/18488869.aspx

Thanks IEEE488.  I'll read and study this material.  I was hoping to REPLACE my existing drive (NOT add a second) and at the same time clone my existing drive (with recommended software) to removable media so that I would only be required to access the interior of the case ONE time.  I do not need the small existing drive and didn't want to incurr the added time and expense of additional parts cost and installation. 

It appears, from all that I read, that this is NOT possible.  Thanks again for your support.

It would appear your trying to make a mountain from a mole hill. You do not need to mount the second drive in order to image it. Place the jumper on the second drive to cable select and plug in the drive to the open ide ribbon cable connector. Plug the 4 pin molex power connector into the drive. Place the drive in a position so as not to make electrical contact with adjacent components (I usually leave it in the anti-static bag. Power on the computer and boot to the optical drive and follow the instructions from the imaging software cd. You do not need to boot into windows to complete the imaging process (in fact I prefer not to). When imaging is complete replace original drive with new cloned drive. The whole process is really quite simple. I would caution you to beware of any static dischages while working around in the open case. Be sure to ground yourself and unplug the computer while the case is open. Good Luck and repost with any further questions and or results.

Yes, DCX4EVER.  This is good information on REPLACING a hard drive.  This was the hump that I needed to get over!  I was wondering if, in fact, both drives were required to do the imaging, if one could be left dangling or propped and later removed...I'll let you know the outcome.  Given my arthritic fingers. I'll do my best to keep from damaging any of the electronics.

Thanks much!